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Used scooter review: 2004 Yamaha Vino 125
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Everyone loves a Vino!
Now that used scoots aren't flying off the lot with the same speed they did mere months ago, I get to ride them occasionally on my trips to the bank or various quick office errands. And I have come to realize that each used bike has its pluses and minuses, its strengths and weaknesses. Hence: my new weekly feature: the used scoot review.
This particular bike, a 2004 Vino 125, was brought to us with a relatively high mileage but absolutely pristine appearance. This bike was ridden well but kept well, too: garaged and babied as so many Vino fans tend to do for their beloved scooters. I have yet to find a single Vino owner who has been unhappy with their bike. However, this particular Vino, while servicable, is not one I'd easily fall in love with.
The 125 doesn't pack quite the punch off the line as comparable 125 four-strokes (or even the older, kitted 2-stroke Vino 50s). It lacks the extra oomph you get from torquier bikes like the Buddy or SR50. Nevertheless, it's a smooth ride, and it feels much less toylike than it's archrival, the Honda Metro.
As for utility, the Vino is a great bike for the practical rider. I was able to easily fit my big Scorpion full-face helmet in the underseat storage, and there are extra helmet hooks for plastic or cloth bags- making this a pretty effective little grocery-getter.
The Vino was made for flat, urban roads, and it purrs right along in that environment. Though the pickup is a little pokey, it will happily reach 45 on a nice long stretch (say Speer or 15th). The stiff suspension and firm seat, however, present a problem when introduced to potholes (ow). As well, the Vino's turning and cornering abilities are not as responsive as I like, due to a center of gravity that takes some getting used to.
Bottom line: the 2004 Vino 125 is like a Honda Metropolitan that went off to summer camp, hit puberty, and came back with more bulk but a newfound clumsiness. A Vino Lover (and they are legion) would love the 125, but I think it's got some tweaking yet to counter the heft of the scoot with the necessary speed and responsiveness.
