2013 Yamaha Zuma Review

The Yamaha Zuma is a popular model of scooter that was first introduced in 2002. Originally available as an air-cooled two-stroke model, the Zuma has since been redesigned as a four-stroke. In the past, the model has also been marketed as the Yamaha BMs and the MBL Booster. Yamaha actually withdrew the Zuma from the U.S. market in 2006 and 2007. However the model was reintroduced in 2008 and has been going strong ever since. In order to comply with environmental regulations, since 2008 Yamaha has outfitted the Zuma with a restricted throttle and a catalytic converter. Hence, models newer than 2008 have a lower top speed than many earlier models.

The 2013 Yamaha Zuma is a bold, aggressive-looking scooter that was designed to be both tough and sporty. It boasts twin bug-eyed headlights out front that give it a particularly distinctive appearance. The Zuma boasts a simple instrument panel with a turn signal, a high beam, and an oil indicator light. For 2013 the Zuma is available in two models: the Zuma 125 and the Zuma 50F. The Zuma 125 is a tough-looking scooter with a strong steel frame, aggressive-looking fat tires, oiled-type air filters, and beefy front and rear shocks along with brush deflectors that lend the bike genuine off-road capability, while also providing good on-road performance. The 125 boasts a fully automatic C.V. transmission and pushbutton electric starting system that make it very convenient to operate. With center and side stands and a locking cover on the ignition switch, the Zuma 125 is also convenient and easy to park. The 2013 Yamaha Zuma 125 can seat two and makes 89 mpg in terms of fuel economy. The tank holds 1.6 gallons of gas.

The more compact 2013 Yamaha Zuma 50F features the same tough yet sporty design and is powered by a liquid-cooled, three-valve, four-stroke 49cc engine that’s powerful, quiet, and low-maintenance. It’s also got sharp styling and a distinct go-anywhere look. The smaller, more economical 50F delivers an impressive 132 mpg in estimated fuel economy. With its 49cc four-stroke engine, the Zuma 50F is a fun bike for making your daily commute to work or school. It has power that is smooth and seamless, as well as starting that’s practically instantaneous, thanks to its fuel-injected engine.

The Yamaha Zuma first earned fans for its tough-looking off-road image, and both the 2013 models feature sharply updated styling and the distinct twin headlights the model is known for. The bike’s fat tires lend it the look of a vehicle that is capable of going just about anywhere, while the Zuma’s steeped seat provides for a ride that’s open and roomy. Additional conveniences include locking storage space underneath the seat, an inner pocket, and a hook that folds out. The Zuma 50F’s fuel tank may only hold 1.2 gallons of gas, but the model is capable of achieving up to 132 mpg in estimated fuel economy. Fully automatic V-belt transmission with centrifugal clutch provides for easy acceleration off the line. The steel-tube frame has a step through design that facilitates easy mount and dismount, while the telescopic forks feature beefed-up outer tubes. Twin bright halogen headlights are included, with the left side providing 55W low beam and the right side is a 60W high beam.