ith the Vino Classic, classic retro style straight out of the movies meets modern Yamaha engineering. Yamaha's 49cc Vino is economical in it's demands, effortless to manouver and park, as well as just plain and simple a convenient means of transportation. Well known facts, because the Vino has been around. Brand new although for 2006 Vino Classic is the four-stroke engine, promising more power and less emissions.

To fire up the Vino the choice is yours: either it is the easy push on the button of the dependable electric starter, or the kickstart option, which is far less workout intesive than it used to be in the good old days, when the kicker was the only option. The fully automatic V-belt transmission ensures easy, twist-the-throttle-and-go operation. A high-energy ignition system provides precise, high-voltage sparks for seamless engine performance and reliability.In case you live in those parts of our country that have a strong winter, Yamaha promises that the automatic choke makes cold starting a cinch.

As far as the chassis elements of the Vino Classic go, the step through frame carries a bottom link-type front fork with 2.1 inches of travel, which Yamaha claims to deliver superb bump-absorbing performance. The rear single-shock suspension system with 1.9 inches of travel in the - where else - rear, provides plush, all-day comfort and unbeatable ride quality. the front and rear drum brakes supply strong stopping power, supported by good traction of the 80/90-10 front and rear tires.

Additional features of the 2006 Vino Classic include a comfortably wide, thick padded single seat is with an underseat storage compartment roomy enough to hold a helmet. When that is not enough, there also is a rugged rear rack for hauling schoolbooks, groceries, or whatever it is you have to carry along. Full-size floorboards and the wide, classic and stylish sculpted front apron provide splash and wind protection.

More for the viewing pleasure of eventual spectatrs are the fully chromed headlight, turnsignal housings, speedometer, mirrors and handlebar, plus the chrome cargo rack out back. Besides enhancing the scooter's retro looks, the large, single 12V 35/35-watt headlight promises better looking as well by maximizing nighttime visibility. Talking about keeping an eye on things: The easy-to-read instrument panel features turn signal, high-beam and low oil indicator lights, while a fuel gauge integrated in the speedometer lets the rider easily keep track of gas level.

And last but not least, aew anti-theft rear wheel lock feature prevents tampering with the ignition switch and locks the rear wheel, making it harder to move the Vino Classic after it's parked.

For more information, please go to www.yamaha-motor.com.

Colin, Scooter Press

Tech Specs Yamaha Vino Classic

MSRP: $1,849 (Available from September 2005)

Engine
Type: 49cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke single
Carburetion: 14mm Teikei

Transmission
Type: V-belt automatic


Chassis
Suspension/Front: Telescopic fork; 2.1" travel
Suspension/Rear: Single shock; 1.9" travel


Wheels/Brakes
Brakes/Front: 110mm drum
Brake/Rear: 110mm drum
Tires/Front: 80/90-10
Tires/Rear: 80/90-10

Measures/Weights
LxWxH: (TBA)
Seat Height: (TBA)
Wheel Base: 45.3"
Fuel Capacity: 1.6 gallons
Dry Weight: 155 lbs.

Colors: Raven, Liquid Silver, Raspberry Metallic