🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aprilia

Model:

Leonardo 125

Year:

1996-1997

Engine Code:

Rotax 125 2-stroke (likely M274 or similar variant)

Chassis Code:

AP8115409 (example chassis code for the model range)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Aprilia Leonardo 125 was positioned as a stylish and capable mid-size scooter in the late 1990s, catering to urban commuters and those seeking a blend of performance and practicality with an Italian flair.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with other 125cc scooters from brands like Honda (e.g., Pantheon), Piaggio (e.g., Liberty), Yamaha (e.g., Majesty 125), and Kymco. Its key differentiators were often its sporty handling and Aprilia's reputation for performance-oriented motorcycles.

Key Features:

Liquid-cooled 2-stroke engine, automatic transmission, disc brakes front and rear, comfortable seating, under-seat storage, distinctive Italian styling, capable for both city commuting and light touring.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Specifications

Page Count:

Estimated 200-300 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine assembly/disassembly, Fuel system (carburetor, fuel lines), Ignition system, Cooling system (liquid-cooled), Exhaust system, Transmission (CVT/Automatic), Suspension (front fork, rear shock), Braking system (disc brakes front/rear), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, charging system, lighting), Chassis, Bodywork and fairings, Wheels and tires, Controls

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks), Engine tuning and adjustments, Carburetor overhaul and adjustment, Transmission service, Brake system bleeding and component replacement, Suspension fork seal replacement, Electrical troubleshooting, Wiring harness inspection and repair, Fairing removal and installation, Torque specifications for critical fasteners, Diagnostic procedures for common faults

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to detailed component overhaul and diagnostic procedures. Includes step-by-step instructions with diagrams and specifications for a complete workshop-level understanding.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution, clear diagrams and text (typical for professionally digitized manuals)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

2-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled

Displacement:

124.8 cc (approx.)

Bore X Stroke:

54 mm x 54.5 mm (typical for Rotax 125)

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 7.0:1 - 7.5:1 (typical for 2-stroke)

Lubrication:

Pre-mix or Autolube (oil injection system)

Horsepower:

Approx. 15-16 HP (at engine crank)

Torque:

Approx. 12-13 Nm (at engine crank)

Carburetor Model:

Dell'Orto PHBH 28 (or similar size)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (minimum 91 octane recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 9-10 Liters

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission)

Drive Type:

Belt Drive

Optional Gearbox:

N/A (CVT is standard)

Transmission Fluid:

Specific CVT fluid required (check manual for exact specification, e.g., SAE 30 or 10W-40 motorcycle gear oil if specified)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 1950 mm

Width:

Approx. 740 mm

Height:

Approx. 1340 mm (seat height likely around 770 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1380 mm

Dry Weight:

Approx. 140 kg

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 290 kg

Underseat Storage:

Sufficient for a full-face helmet and small items

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Scooter safety is typically assessed through component performance and regulatory compliance, not crash test ratings as for cars)

Active Features:

Disc brakes front and rear for enhanced stopping power, responsive steering and suspension.

Passive Features:

Sturdy frame construction, protective bodywork, lighting system for visibility.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog instrumentation (speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights). No advanced infotainment features.

Driver Assistance:

N/A (No electronic driver assistance systems on this model)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 km or annually (for the 4-stroke models, but for the 2-stroke, focus is on checking 2-stroke oil level and regular spark plug inspection/replacement)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 5,000 - 8,000 km

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 3,000 km, replacement as needed

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 6,000 - 10,000 km

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years (DOT 4 recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

2-stroke, high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil (e.g., Motul 710 2T, Castrol Power 1)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water recommended)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Known Issues:

Carburetor gumming if fuel sits for extended periods, wear on CVT belt and rollers, potential for aging electrical connections, 2-stroke engine carbon buildup requiring decarbonization.

Diagnostic Tip:

Listen for irregular engine noises (indicating piston/ring wear) or inconsistent power delivery (often carb or ignition related).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Aprilia, an Italian manufacturer, has a long history in motorcycle racing and performance-oriented street bikes, which often influences their scooter designs with a focus on handling and sportiness.

Model Evolution:

The Leonardo line was introduced in the mid-1990s and evolved through various engine displacements (50cc, 125cc, 150cc, 250cc) and styling updates, with the 125cc model being a popular entry point for the range.

Production Years:

The Leonardo 125 was produced primarily from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s, with the 1996-1997 period representing the initial iteration of this model.

Manufacturing Location:

Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the Leonardo 125 are not widely documented, Aprilia scooters generally received positive reviews in their time for performance and styling within their segment.

Industry Ratings:

Often rated highly for its sporty ride and engaging performance compared to more utilitarian scooters.

Certifications:

Compliant with European emissions and safety standards for its production era.