2012 Yamaha Zuma Review

Intro

For 2012, Yamaha has two Zuma models for the urban commuter to choose from: the spunky and well-loved Zuma 50F and its bigger brother, the Zuma 125. With increasing fuel prices and traffic congestion on the rise in almost all urban areas, the 2012 Yamaha Zuma line is an excellent alternative to bigger, less user-friendly machines.

Offered in both Raven (black), Alpine White, and Team Yamaha Blue/White, the 2012 Zuma 50F is an able and punchy short trip machine made better this year with the addition of a fuel-injected engine that delivers an estimated 132 miles per gallon (mpg) with Yamaha’s well-known quality. The much-welcomed fuel-injection in the Zuma 50F is new for 2012 and provides the accurate and lively throttle response common in much larger engines but rarely found in scooters of this size. The 2012 Zuma 50F also has a small one-point-two gallon fuel tank and will be an engaging and budget-friendly ride that will go light on your pocketbook for years to come.

The larger-displacement Zuma 125 is a mid-sized scooter that remains largely unchanged for 2012 aside from the new colors offered; Raven and Alpine White. With its larger engine, the Zuma 125 delivers a more powerful riding experience well-suited for solo trips across town or shorter rides with a passenger, but mileage drops to a still-respectable 89 miles per gallon (mpg) with a one-point-six gallon tank.

Both models retain the characteristic Zuma look: twin, bulb headlights that are mounted to project in front of the body and small, wide tires that appear ready for not only heavy-duty road use, but off-road use, as well.

Small-displacement scooters are not designed for highway use, but they have few competitors when it comes to outright convenience in the city. The 2012 Yamaha Zuma line’s low seat heights, friendly step-through design, standard kick and center stands, generous underseat storage, and quality options all combine in a package that both beginners and experienced riders will agree is a nearly perfect vehicle for short errands, trips to campus, or any number of excursions where mobility, easy parking, and independence are highly valued.

New For 2012

  • Zuma 50F
  • New, stylish Raven (black), Alpine White, and Team Yamaha Blue/White color schemes
  • Upgraded, four-stroke engine with fuel injection, liquid cooling, and higher compression ratio for better fuel economy and greater miles per gallon (mpg) rating
  • 1.2 gallon tank
  • Zuma 125
  • New Raven and Alpine White color schemes
  • All mechanical and engineering specification for the 2012 Zuma 125 are unchanged from the 2011 model

2012 Yamaha Zuma Specs

  • Model: Zuma 50F
  • Engine Type: Four-stroke single cylinder with three valves and fuel injection
  • Bore and Stroke: 1.5 x 1.72 inches
  • Compression ratio: 12.0:1
  • Valve Train: Single Overhead Cam (SOHC)
  • Induction: Fuel injected
  • Ignition: Electric, DC Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI)
  • Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT)
  • Final Drive: Belt
  • Fuel Capacity: 1.2 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 132 miles per gallon (mpg)
  • Brakes (Front): Single, 7.1 inch hydraulic disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Drum brake
  • Suspension (Front): Telescoping forks
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin-sided swing arm with one rear shock
  • Wheelbase: 50.3 inches
  • Rake: n/a
  • Trail: n/a
  • Seat Height: 30.7 inches
  • Curb Weight: 205 pounds, including the vehicle with all standard equipment and fluids, oil, coolant (as applicable), and a full tank of fuel
  • Tires (Front): 10-inch tubeless aluminum rims with 120/90 R10 tires
  • Tires (Rear): 10-inch tubeless aluminum rims with 120/90 R10 tires

Accessories

  • Graphics kits in red, gold, or blue
  • Custom seat cover: constructed of marine grade vinyl in a stylish, two-tone color design, this cover is both water and fade-resistant. It can easily be installed over the stock cover and has a precision fit
  • Hand guards: easy to install and molded from strong polypropylene, these hand deflectors are styled after those on Zuma 125 and offer great protection from the elements
  • Tall windscreen: providing ample upper body wind protection, this clear windscreen is made of 4mm thick hard-coated polycarbonate material. Easy, bolt-on installation to the mirror mounts
  • Low windscreen: available in Blue Chrome or Dark Tinted, these aggressively-styled low windscreens offer moderate protection from wind. Windscreens are made of a 3mm thick acrylic material and attach easily and securely with double-sided tape
  • Textile storage organizer: designed specifically to fit in the under-seat storage area, this shaped bag has a 3.9 gallon capacity, three zippered compartments, zippered lid, a clip-type key holder, and convenient carrying handle.
  • Storage cover: constructed of 300 Denier Sur Last® fabric solution-dyed polyester and featuring bold Yamaha and Zuma graphics, this cover has a zip-out pouch that can provide extra room for the tall windscreen, a convenient storage bag sewn on inside on cover, a heat-resistant exhaust pipe patch on inside of cover, and a strong elastic cord throughout the bottom for a snug fit. Custom-designed for the Zuma, water-repellant, and durable

Key Competitors For The 2012 Yamaha Zuma

  • Honda Metropolitan
  • Kymco Like
  • Vespa LX
  • Piaggio Fly