It's been a significant player in grand prix racing over the years, and remains a force in the 125 race class, projecting a youthful and fun image in Europe, though its profile in Australia has generally been under the radar. Maybe that's about to change.
For people in the mid-range scooter market - which can be vaguely defined as the 150-250cc class, there's a wealth of choice, to the point of being baffling. However you'll find that a number Euro brands are using Piaggio powerplants, and the 150 fan-cooled four-stroke is a pretty useful bit of kit. It's matched to a full auto CVT transmission and will push your average scoot to about an indicated 110kmh top speed when given a decent run-up, with a 90-100 cruise achievable in most situations. So it's freeway-friendly, and quite able to hold its own in your average metro traffic snarl.
Accommodation and seat height are about what you expect for this class, with the seat height being reasonable and there's enough room to squeeze in a pillion if you really need to. Though the latter could use some decent handgrips.
There's just enough room for a full-size full-face helmet under the seat, and there's a small glovebox, plus a shopping bag hook located just under the steering head.
A real highlight of the Boulevard is its suspension and handling. It runs medium-size wheels (13-inchers), which assist in giving stable and quickish steering, while the well thought-out suspension gives the rider a lot of confidence. Particularly under hard braking, which is where some scooters struggle.
Instrumentation includes an voltmeter, though we'd prefer to see a clock. The speedo on our bike went AWOL a couple of times - it probably just required a tightened-up electrical connection. The seat hinge could be a little more substantial, and the centrestand could use a more user-friendly foot lever. All minor criticisms.
Overall finish is very good, with the tasty alloy wheels being a highlight. They're fitted with tyres from Thailand, which seemed fine in the mixed conditions we experienced during the test.
The Boulevard performs well, and we reckon the price of just under six kay is in the ballpark.
By Guy Allen
Spex:
Engine: fan-cooled 4-stroke;
Bore x Stroke 62.6 x 48.6 mm;
149.6 cc;
Start Electric;
Compression Ratio 11:1;
Maximum Power 11.5CV @ 7000rpm;
Ignition Electronic (CDI);
Primary Drive CVT;
Clutch Centrifugal;
Suspension: Front Hydraulic fork Ø35 mm Effectual run 76 mm;
Rear Lineal gas single absorber. Effectual run 60 mm;
Tyres: Front 130/60x13;
Rear 130/60x13;
Brakes: Front hydraulic disc 220mm;
Rear mechanical drum 140mm;
Fuel Tank 9 Litres.
Price: $5990 plus ORC.
Colours: Blue, Silver, Cherry Red.
Published : Friday, 14 November 2003