Best of all 125 Scooters (Gilera Runner 125)

Member Name: talsel

Product:	Gilera Runner 125
Date:	31/07/05 (10380 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Top Speed, Superb 4 Stroke Engine, Fuel Economy, Styling, Stability

Disadvantages: Handling, Sought after by Thieves so insurance group 8!

Where does one begin. My bike history might be a good start:
2000 Gilera Runner 125 SP 2 Stroke
2001 Gilera DNA 125 4 Stroke
2003 Gilera Runner 125 VX 4 Stroke
2005 Peugeot Speedfight 100 XP
2005 Gilera Runner 125 VX 4 Stroke

Yes, I've had a lot of scooters in five years, but as you can see I broke the mold with the last one. I only had the little Speedfight for 3 months and the reason I got rid of it was simple. I commute 20 miles a day and as soon as the wind hit it my 60mph top speed crept down to 45mph! Not very inspiring, although around town the little Peugeot is superior in both acceleration and handling. A tiny 7 litre tank added to my woes, so off she went.
The Runner put out another 6BHP compared to the latter and tops out at a genuine 70mph on the flat. (I used a GPS receiver for the speedtest) We all know that scooter speedos can be optimistic! As it was, mine is only 2mph out, which is fine because it keeps me in the safety margin for speed cameras.
The tank is 11 litres/2 gallons and returns 175 miles. Thats 87.5 mpg. I do ride progressively, so 100 mpg is possible if you're Mr. Sensible. The engine starts well if you hold the button for 2 seconds, let go, wait for 5 and then try again. An old trick from my first Runner.
The ride is smooth and satisfying. You don't seem to realise how fast you're going till you check your mirror or the speedo. This is down to the Runners superb ride and stability, coupled with its size. I'm 6'4" and 16 stone and the stepover frame is no problem. The Brakes are good and the bike stops very well. The main downer is the difference in handling compared to the Speedfight. The Runner is 30kg's heavier and longer. The way to overcome this is to ride it more like a proper bike. Get lower in your seat and lean away, for a great ride!
Not many styling changes through the years, but if it aint broke, don't fix it!

Summary: Don't waste money on other Scooters guys. Learn by my mistakes and buy a Runner. Best 125 there is!

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