Small but sporty: The compact Malaguti Mission 125 scooter is dynamic and has an aggressive look, but has some weaknesses.
- Unusually loud engine
- Easy to handle
- Minimal equipment
Sporty scooter models were trendy in the 1990s, but then they almost disappeared completely. Now a comeback seems to be on the horizon: the 125cc scooter class is booming, especially because even car license holders can drive corresponding models with little effort .
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Noisy engine, high consumption
The light scooter makes a grown-up, but nevertheless compact impression. Thanks to wide tires, extremely stylish 13-inch aluminum rims and a steeply rising short rear, the new Malaguti looks muscular and self-confident. A delicate windshield above the cockpit unfortunately has more of an optical effect than a practical effect. The enormous seat height of 90 centimeters and the large ground clearance are somewhat incongruous.
However, when it comes to the drive, the Italians prove that they are serious about “sport”: The drive unit has a very short-stroke bore/stroke ratio, which is why the maximum power of 12.2 hp is only available at 9500 rpm, and the maximum torque of just under 11 Nm at 7750 rpm .
12 hp power, 95 km/h top speed
The Mission drive works accordingly at high speeds in practice. Even to gently set off, the centrifugal clutch needs speeds of around 7000, which is just under the maximum torque. At full throttle, the needle tends towards the 9000 mark, so that the clock quickly shows 80 km/h. Shortly afterwards, it reaches its top speed of 95 km/h . In terms of driving dynamics, the Mission does a good job, but you have to like the high speed level and the associated noise.
Just like the comparatively high average consumption of 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers. With a tank capacity of just seven liters, the Mission has to stop for gas after 179 kilometers at the latest. With a turn of the ignition, the fuel filler flap opens. Be careful when filling up: excess fuel sprays directly onto your left thigh.
Pleasant handling, good driving dynamics
The sporty design of the new Malaguti scooter is also evident in the driving dynamics. The compact, slightly bent seating position towards the wide handlebars is immediately appealing, but the high position of the footboard is irritating. Riders up to 1.70 meters may find the perfect position, but taller riders have to bend their knees quite a bit. You are rewarded with very balanced, stable handling. Neither the relatively small 13-inch wheels nor the fashionable, superbike-like handlebars make driving nervous.
The surprisingly heavy weight of 153 kilos for a 125cc bike also contributes to the bike’s superiority: the Malaguti turns all kinds of corners with stability . Regardless of its sporty attitude, the Mission surprises with the functionality of the telescopic fork and diagonally mounted solo shock absorber: the ride is much more comfortable than the appearance suggests.
The Malaguti cannot argue away the limited suspension travel, but the suspension and damping are well coordinated overall. The brakes also make a good impression. Both discs are easy to control and slow down the vehicle properly when you grip them firmly. It’s just a shame that Malaguti didn’t give the Mission adjustable hand levers.
Technical data Malaguti Mission 125
| Manufacturer’s Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| engine/transmission | Liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, 124 cc displacement, 9 kW/12.2 hp at 9500 rpm, 10.5 Nm at 7750 rpm; four valves/cylinder, ohc, injection, CVT automatic, centrifugal dry clutch, belt secondary drive |
| performance and consumption | Top speed 95 km/h, 3.9 l/100 km |
| chassis | Double-loop steel tube frame; 35 mm telescopic fork at the front (not adjustable), 100 mm suspension travel; drive unit swing arm at the rear, one spring strut (preload adjustable), 73 mm suspension travel; light alloy cast wheels; tires 120/70-13 (front) and 130/70-13 (rear). 267 mm single-disc brake at the front, 220 mm single-disc brake at the rear |
| assistance systems | ABS |
| dimensions and weights | Wheelbase 1450 mm, seat height 900 mm, weight ready to drive 154 kg, payload 155 kg; tank capacity 7.0 l |
| price | 3599 euros |
Conclusion: Scooter with clear weaknesses
The equipment of the Malaguti Mission 125 is limited to the essentials. With a modern sports scooter, you can expect an excitingly prepared cockpit or elegant LED lighting units for indicators, rear lights and driving lights. And a full-face helmet doesn’t fit in the large storage compartment under the seat . On the other hand, the view in the diamond-shaped rear-view mirrors with relatively long arms is good. This very successful sports scooter is available for around 3600 euros.
