Although Japanese motor manufacturer, Yamaha Motor Company, introduced the Zuma back in 1989, it halted production 16 years later. The Zuma was back in 2008, showing a considerable improvement over the previous incarnations. By the time the 2010 Yamaha Zuma arrived, Yamaha had solidified its personality as an improved moderate motor scooter.
There are two versions of the 2010 Yamaha Zuma: the regular “Base” model and the Zuma 125. The Zuma is classified as a 49cc scooter due to its engine displacement of 49 cubic centimeters. However, Yamaha also provides the Zuma 125, which has a larger engine displacement of 125cc.
Each version of the 2010 Yamaha Zuma is powered by a single-cylinder engine that has a fan-assisted cooling system for cooling down its hot parts and thus preventing malfunction due to overheating. However, in addition to the displacement, there are some differences. The engine on the Base is a two-stroke unit with a bore and stroke of 1.58 by 1.54 inches (40 by 39.2 millimeters), a compression ratio of 7 to 1, and a reed intake valve configuration. The one on the Zuma 125 is a four-stroke unit with a bore and stroke of 2.07 by 2.28 inches (52.4 by 57.9 millimeters), a compression ratio of 10 to 1, and a single overhead camshaft valve train. (Four intake valves go on its single cylinder.)
The engine on the 2010 Yamaha Zuma is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT. This type of transmission can choose between an unlimited number of shifting gears, which helps the engine run more efficiently and thus produce better fuel efficiency. Peak fuel capacity and fuel efficiency varies, though, according to model. The Zuma Base, with a gas tank that can take up to 1.5 gallons (5.7 liters) of fuel, can provide a fuel economy of 123 mpg. The Zuma 125 gets a 1.6-gallon (6.1-liter) gas tank and provides a fuel economy of 89 mpg.
For induction, the Base version of the 2010 Yamaha Zuma gets a Teikei™ carburetor, while the Zuma 125 is upgraded to fuel injection. Riders of the Zuma Base are given the choice between an electric or kick starter for engine ignition; those with the Zuma 125 are left with the former (and more convenient) option.
Styled similarly to scooters from Italian manufacturers like Vespa--with its virtually flat floorboard and prominent front fairing--the 2010 Yamaha Zuma is made of strong, sturdy steel. Plastic coverings consist of fenders (front and rear) and an exhaust guard. The scooter can be parked using the center stand or kick stand provided. For standard digital instrumentation, the 2010 Zuma gets a trip odometer, speedometer, and fuel level warning gauge. The one-piece vinyl seat--set at a height of 30.1 inches on the Base and 30.7 inches on the Zuma 125--is big enough for the rider and a passenger. There are under-seat, lockable, helmet, and glove box/dashboard areas for storage. Yahama includes a halogen headlight and rearview mirrors for increased visibility.
Each 2010 Yamaha Zuma scooter has a front disc and rear drum for braking. The suspension comprises a telescopic fork in the front and a twin-sided swing arm at the back for ensuring a smooth ride. Aluminum wheels go on each bike, although the ones on the Zuma 125 are bigger: 12 inches to the 10-inch ones on the Base.
The physical dimensions on the 2010 Yamaha Zuma include a length of around 74 inches, a width of 28 inches, a height of 44 inches, and a wheelbase of 50 inches. Ground clearance is measured at 4.7 inches for the Base and 3.7 inches for the Zuma 125. Each bike weighs 207 pounds wet.