I'd say a combination of engine size and physical size. After all, both are bigger than the normal run of the mill scooter.

"phat-ness"

Meldrew wrote:I'd say it's a scooter in the style of the Honda CN250 Helix.

Although with this crowd there's no such thing as a definitive answer...that's the definitive answer. It's what I tried to say, only better.

SpikeOne wrote:I would say that if it looks like a maxi, then it is a maxi....

...and if it doesn't, it must be something else!!

Meldrew wrote:I'd say it's a scooter in the style of the Honda CN250 Helix. In 1986 Honda brought out the CN250 Helix using the engine from the CH250 Spacy, they lengthened the wheelbase by 14",.

just had a look on the interweb at one of those CN250 Helix, they sure are long

http://www.americanlisted.com/michigan_ ... 66587.html

We've had this discussion many times over the years. What makes a maxi is the physical size not the engine size which is why an X8/X9 125 are both maxi scoots but a B500 isn't.

For me i'd class a Maxi Scooter as...

Being over 2000mm (2metres) long.

Engine size of 125cc+

Weighs over 150kg.

Has a large wheelbase, over 1400mm.

Has a large fuel tank, usually at least two gallons+

Decent Storage more than a full helmet, or if the Scoots 'sport'
orientated (t-max, GP800, Nexus) enough for a full face helmet.

Feet forwards riding position.

Good Weather Protection and a windscreen.

Step through, don't have to swing your leg over.

Decent sized wheels 12in mininum and larger disk brakes.

Of course some Maxi's may not have all these features ie Helix had a drum and 10in wheel on the rear.

Is my Swing 125 a Maxi scoot? To me it's the same as the X9's I've owned over the years. It's very much like my B650, takes up the same space in the garage.

Yes it is a maxi scoot.

Interesting that the French refer to the likes of an S-wing 125 as a "GT" scooter, that's how I see maxis, i.e. scooters capable of long distance touring in comfort.