My needs:
- ca. 3,000 miles a year, 95% of which in urban traffic and riding without a passenger. In truth, I do not strictly speaking "need" a 300c, but the insurance for many 125s is more expensive than for more expensive 300cc, and for top models like the Forza or the x-max the price difference between the 125cc and the 300cc isn't great
- I want to be able to install a leg cover, ideally the pro version of the Tucano (the one with a 4-season rain cover + a removable winter lining). This rules out some models. They're ugly but they add a lot to the practicality and convenience - after all, I'm not getting a scooter because it's prettier than an R1...
- I want to install a 47L topbox at the back, for my backpack and helmet, but I'd also want some storage under the seat for things like u-lock, waterproof overtrousers, a spare set of gloves, etc. This rules out things like Vespas.
- being able to absorb potholes and filter in traffic will be way more important than cornering with the knee down.
- I have ridden all kinds, from 125cc to >1,000cc adventure bikes
- My last scooter was an X-max 300. I loved the engine, the handling, the storage, the consumption (regularly 27kml, ie 77 British mpg, riding only in city traffic). BUT it gave me loads of electrical problems, with some kind of parasitic battery drain that multiple mechanics failed to fix. And I hated the position of the battery; I installed an optimate battery tender cable, but removing the shield to replace the battery was a huge pain.
- I won't get another x-max, but, since it's popular, it's a useful reference for me (e.g. when people say the suspensions of X are better or worse than the x-max)
- Honda Forza 350. It seems very similar to the x-max, but with a more easily accessible battery (under the seat, not under the front shield). I am unsure about the mirrors: they probably give better visibility but, being fixed to the fairings, they might hinder filtering. But I noticed there are aftermarket kits to fold the mirrors electrically, at the push of a button.
- Honda ADV 350 : I don't mind the looks (which are not everyone's cup of tea, I get it) but I'm not sure what the advantages vs the Forza would be. Maybe better suspensions? It gives less protection from the rain
- Honda SH : little storage. On older models I hated that the speedo was hard to read (with a full-face helmet, I had to take my eyes off the road), not sure here. I'd get it over the Forza only if it allows better filtering and the suspensions are not worse on potholes (I have read very different opinions).
- Piaggio Beverly 400: It looks smaller than the Forza or X-max but it really isn't. Many reviews suggest its suspensions are more rigid, and the engine is more powerful but with worse mpg, making it a better choice for the motorway than for urban traffic. Less storage under the seat but I could live with it, it's still quite roomy.
- X-max 300: I'm not getting another one, after all the electrical problems I had
- Kymco and Sym: local dealers don't have any stock. Not much cheaper than the Forza; no idea about depreciation and availability of parts.
- Lexmoto: the Pegasus 300 and Aura 300 seems interesting, and competitively priced, but local dealers have no stock and there seem to be no leg covers.
- Vespas. Stolen a lot. Tiny wheels. Too little storage.
- Burgman 400: nice but too expensive