Benelli Adiva 125 test

Intro: BENELLI HITS BACK

Times are a-changing in the world of scooters. The race is fierce in terms of engine capacity (see the Yamaha Tmax 500 test drive) and the BMW C1 has broken new ground in the 125 bhp market segment. Benelli has hit back with its Adiva 125 - a traditional scooter with a roof, similar to a form of hard-top typically found on cars, that folds away in a matter of seconds. The Benelli concept most certainly measures up to the BMW C1, with as principal differences the price (1500 euros cheaper than than the C1) and helmet compulsory. (Jessica Paupinat)

Esthetique: A CABRIOLET SCOOTER

The Adiva scooter features a roof section that folds away into the rear boot in a matter of seconds and can be opened up again just as quickly at the slightest sign of a shower. The boot carrying capacity remains unchanged, irrespective of whether the roof is up or down. The Benelli model seems to offer better protection than the C1, thanks to its deflectors on either side of the windscreen. The latter's existence furthermore considerably enhance passengers' riding comfort.
The Adiva has a further edge over the BMW in that it can accommodate a passenger, although space is seriously lacking, leaving the driver on the edge of the saddle. Sadly missing, however, is the headlight beam flash function, replaced by the somewhat clumsily-positioned windscreen wiper button. Drivers of the Adiva 125 scooter will have to rely on flashing their hazard warning lights to draw attention to themselves.

Motorization: ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT

This Adiva model is desperately lacking in the power department. With a weight of 135 kg, its single-cylinder engine manages to distribute a mere 10 bhp at 8000 rpm. Although 50kg lighter than the BMW C1, it still lacks that star quality for it to stand out in the roofed scooter category. In comparison to the C1, the Adiva offers a greater boost of power from a standstill and during acceleration, subsequently waning to reach a somewhat unimpressive 100 km/h.

On the road: SURPRISING

Practical and easy to ride, changing direction is a doddle on this Adiva, even without the sophisticated equipment featured on the C1. However, when on full lock, the handle bar draws up very close to the windscreen with the driver's hands brushing against the interior screens.
Although the scooter does have the disadvantage of not offering optimal resistance to cross winds, the 220 mm discs offer high performance. Even without the ABS, featured on the C1.