PIaggio Fly 50

Make Model	Piaggio Fly 50
Year	2008
Engine	Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valve
Capacity	49. cc / 3.0 cub in.
Bore x Stroke	39 mm x 41.8 mm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Cooling System	Forced air
Lubrication	Wet sump
Fuel System	Carburetor
Ignition	Electronic
Starting	Electric / kick
Max Power	3.1 kW / 4.1 hp
Transmission	CVT, twist and go
Clutch	Automatic centrifugal dry clutch
Frame	Single cradle, high strength steel tube
Front Suspension	Hydraulic telescopic fork
Front Wheel Travel	58 mm / 2.3 in.
Rear Suspension	Single hydraulic shock absorber
Rear Wheel Travel	76 mm / 3.0 in.
Front Brakes	200 mm disc with dual piston caliper
Rear Brakes	140 mm drum
Front Tyre	120/70 - 12 in.
Rear Tyre	120/70 - 12 in.
Dimensions	Length: 1880 mm / 74.0 in. Width: 734 mm / 28.9 in.
Wheelbase	1326 mm / 52.2 in.
Seat Height	785 mm / 30.9 in.
Dry Weight	100 kg / 220 lbs
Fuel Capacity	7.2 L / 1.9 US gal
Review	Motor Scooter Guide

Unlike their Vespa relatives, the Fly 50 and 150 use larger 12” wheels that provide better stability at higher speeds.

The job of stopping the first generation of Fly was handled by a dual piston 200mm disc brake in the front and a 140mm drum brake in the rear. Despite nice specs, the front brake was only mediocre. The feel was a bit wooden and it required higher than average lever pull effort. Good stopping power is there, but it requires a firmer squeeze that other scooters.

In practical terms, the Fly scooters score well. The underseat storage area is quite generous, with the caveat that this area does get fairly hot due to its engine proximity. It’s certainly not a good spot for storing the ice cream. It’s also not a spot for pets, as Piaggio’s comically abundant warning stickers will tell you. The Fly 50 and 150 have a nice glovebox which comes in quite handy and sets this scooter apart from quite a few competitors that offer either an open storage area or nothing at all.

The Fly scooters are sharp designs, so their popularity is easy to understand. They aren’t class leading in terms of price, technology or refinement, but they are well rounded and practical scooters that score well across the board. They are solidly built, supported by a large network of dealers and there’s a great owner community.

The Fly 50 and 150 should appeal to someone seeking a scooter with a modern look who’s looking for good value, as opposed to just the lowest purchase price. The Fly scooters are well featured with enclosed storage areas, quality and powerful motors and front disc brakes. The inclusion of a proper glove box is small but valued detail that separates the Fly from quite a few competitors.

Owner's comments:

”LOVE the Fly 50! Handles very nicely, even on gravel. Has more foot/leg room than most 50cc scooters. The locking handle bars is a great feature... can't be pushed off like most.

After driving the Fly, I'd never own a scooter with 10" tires. The soft, long seat is the most comfortable I've found. LOVE the FLY!!!.”