Yamaha Mio Aerox S

No one really had any issues with the way the Aerox looked and thankfully that has not changed. The only thing new and exclusive to this limited run is the new color schemes. There are two new ones to choose from – white with grey accents and matte blue with bright orange accents. The rest of the styling elements have been carried over from the existing bike. The sharp angular front end makes good use of its dual LED headlights along with various indicators and position lights. The bike’s side panels accentuate its sporty aerodynamic profile. The rear seat is at a comfortable height and goes flush with the lines of the bike thanks to the integrated grab handle. Dimensions are still the same with a length of 1990 mm, width of 700 mm and a height of 1125 mm. The 1350 mm wheelbase and 140 mm ground clearance are also unchanged. As before, there is a high spine running through the middle. 14” triple Y spoke alloy wheels on either end come with a 110/80 53P tire in the front and 140/70 62P tire in the back. Instrumentation is via a 5.8” LCD digital display with white text on blue background. It is just as attractive as it is comprehensive. The practical aspects of the Aerox have also made it to the S version. The fuel filler cap can be found on the spine and can be opened from the same panel that includes the starter and the seat lock. These locks can be remotely operated thanks to the included smart keyless ignition. The massive 25 L underseat storage space can still hold a full-face helmet. The 12V power outlet with a lockable cubby hole is still present behind the apron.   

Despite its sporty looks, the ride is comfortable. The handlebars are low but not too uncomfortable. The seat height of 790 mm makes it an easy ride for people of all heights. The small footboards besides the spine make for compact seating but the comfort is not too compromised otherwise. 26 mm front forks and dual shocks in the rear along with fat tires make for nimble handling and a smooth ride. The low 116 kg kerb weight is another confidence booster in the corners.

Powering the Yamaha Aerox S is a liquid-cooled fuel-injected SOHC 4 valve engine that makes 14.8 hp at 8000 rpm and 13.8 Nm of torque at 6250 rpm. Equipped with VVA, it provides high torque at low speeds and high power at high speeds for the best performance. Top speed is rated around 120 kmph. Using Yamaha’s Bluecore tech, the engine is optimized for minimum fuel wastage. Also included is the stop-start system that shuts down the engine after it has been idling for some time. It also has a smart motor generator that allows for silent starts while saving weight. Fuel efficiency is rated at 45 kmpl, which is complemented by a 4.6-litre fuel tank.

While the original Yamaha Mio Aerox had to do with just a hydraulic disc brake in the front and a drum brake in the rear, the S version has the added advantage of the ABS system.

While the inclusion of the ABS solves one of the oldest gripes riders had with this bike, the increase in price puts it well above its predecessor and into competition with the likes of the Honda PCX. Will Yamaha fans give it the kind of welcome that the company expects them to? Only time will tell.