2008 Yamaha C3 Review

The Yamaha C3 motor scooter has a unique name and look. The XF50 is the scooter’s official name in North American markets, but it goes by C3, which stands for C-cubed because the scooter’s under-seat storage holds nine gallons. The scooter has a boxy look, with a narrow front end. The Japanese manufacturer introduced the C3 to the United States in 2007 and withdrew it five years later. It is still for sale in other countries under other names, such as Giggle in Europe and Vox in Japan. The 2008 C3 is a functional scooter that has a high-tech engine. The C3 has a single cylinder, four-stroke engine, which is common for many scooters. However, Yamaha’s fuel injection system makes it unique among 50 cc four-strokes. Most 50 cc four-stroke engines do not go more than 30 mph since most states do not require scooter riders to be licensed if the scooter goes less than 30 mph. The C3’s four-stroke, fuel-injected system allows the scooter to travel up to 40 mph. It also means riders get a lot more bang for their buck at the gas pump. The scooter averages between 100 mpg and 115 mpg when driven at top speed and around 138 mpg when driven at a constant 25 mph. The fuel-injected, air-cooled engine is considered technologically advanced for scooters. None of its competitors had it. Yamaha would use this same type of engines in other scooter models down the line.

The seat lifts up from the side to reveal nine gallons of storage. However, the storage is not deep enough to hold more than a half-helmet. A helmet hook is located at the front of the seat, which must be opened to access the hook. In 2008, the C3 came in red, white and Yamaha blue in the United States. The 2008 Yamaha C3 has standard instrumentation and an electric start, with a kick-start for back-up. It has both center and side stands. The C3 makes a good entry level scooter as well as a good ride for anyone wanting to drive around town. It is not fast enough for highway riding, and takes 36 seconds to get from zero to 40 mph.