Built around Aprilia's scooter motorcycle platform, the 2012 Aprilia Scarabeo 500 features a 493 cc (30.1 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 40.5 HP (29.6 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 44 Nm (32.5 lb-ft) at 5,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a automatic gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 82.2 HP per liter and a 2,250 rpm working window between peak torque (5,250 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the Scarabeo 500 measures 169 kg (373 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 HP/kg (4.17 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 785 mm (30.9 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,540 mm (60.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 13.5-liter (3.6 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 140 km/h (87 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Aprilia archive, this model family spans 9 indexed model years from 2004 to 2012, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
82.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.24 HP/kg (4.17 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,250–7,500 rpm
Standover Height
785 mm (30.9 in)
Engine
Displacement493.0 ccm (30.08 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsPiaggio Master engine
Power40.5 HP (29.6 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque44.0 Nm (4.5 kgf-m or 32.5 ft.lbs) @ 5250 RPM
Compression10.4:1
Bore x Stroke94.0 x 71.0 mm (3.7 x 2.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic fuel injection with electric fuel pump
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionElectronic inductive discharge with variable advance
LubricationSeparate oil petrol pump mixer
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
GearboxAutomatic
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchAutomatic dry centifuge with damper buffers
Performance
Top Speed140.0 km/h (87.0 mph)
Emission DetailsEuro 3
Chassis
Frame TypeSingle cradle high strength steel tube
Front SuspensionHydraulic fork
Front Travel104 mm (4.1 inches)
Rear SuspensionDouble acting hydraulic shock absorber with preload adjustment
Rear Travel90 mm (3.5 inches)
Wheelbase1540 mm (60.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre110/70-16
Rear Tyre150/70-14
Front BrakesDouble disc
Front Brake Ø260 mm (10.2 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight169.0 kg (372.6 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2396 HP/kg
Seat Height785 mm (30.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
