Vehicle Segment:
Sport Scooter / Maxi-Scooter
Competitors 2008:
Yamaha TMAX 500, Suzuki Burgman 400, Honda Silver Wing 600 (though Nexus 300 is in a slightly smaller displacement class, it competed in the premium scooter segment).
Gilera Nexus 300 Attributes:
Sporty handling, powerful 300cc engine, comfortable for commuting and touring, advanced chassis design for its class.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform professional-level repairs and maintenance, saving costs and extending the life of the vehicle.
Diagnostic Capability:
Provides the same diagnostic and repair information used by professional bike repair shops.
Engine:
General Information, Engine Removal/Installation, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Combustion, Crankcase, Piston, Cylinder, Crankshaft, Transmission, Balancer, Cylinder Head/Valves, Alternator/Starter Clutch
Transmission:
Gearbox, Clutch, Transmission System, Crankshaft/Transmission/Balancer
Chassis And Suspension:
Front Wheel/Steering, Rear Wheel, Chassis, Suspension, Wheels & Tyres
Electrical:
Lubrication System (often tied to electrical), Cooling System (often tied to electrical), Fuel Injection System, Alternator/Starter Clutch, Electrical System, Battery/Charging System, Ignition System, Electric Starter, Lights/Meters/Switches, Wiring Diagrams
Bodywork And Fixtures:
Fenders and Exhaust Pipe, Body & Fixtures, Frame/Body Panels/Exhaust System
Maintenance:
Periodic Checks & Adjustments, Routine Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacement
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting Sections, Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation (implied by fuel injection and electrical coverage)
Chassis And Suspension Adjustment:
Procedures for front fork maintenance, rear shock absorber adjustments (if applicable), wheel bearing service, and steering head bearing checks/adjustments.
Electrical System Diagnosis:
Detailed troubleshooting guides for starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting circuits, and instruments, supported by comprehensive wiring diagrams.
Engine Rebuild Steps:
Step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, gaskets), and reassembly, including torque specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and electrical system rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools Mention:
While specific diagnostic tool requirements aren't listed, the presence of a fuel injection system implies the potential use of specialized EFI diagnostic tools/software for advanced troubleshooting, which the manual would detail.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, single-cylinder, SOHC
Engine Displacement:
278cc (approximate)
Bore X Stroke:
Likely around 75mm x 63mm (typical for Piaggio 300cc Quasar engines)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 21-22 HP at peak RPM
Torque Est:
Approximately 24-25 Nm at peak RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Type Recommendation:
Likely SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG/SH/SJ/SL standards, and JASO MA/MA2 specification.
Oil Capacity Est:
Approximately 1.1 - 1.3 liters (including oil filter)
Instrument Cluster:
Digital and analog display for speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meter, clock, and warning lights.
Braking Technology:
Hydraulic ABS (if equipped), linked braking systems (potential for front/rear brake application with one lever).
Charging Port:
Likely a 12V auxiliary socket for charging devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000-10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will provide precise interval.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended inspection at ~6,000 km and replacement as needed or at a higher interval (e.g., 12,000-18,000 km). Manual will specify.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000-12,000 km. Manual will specify exact type and interval.
Belt Drive Replacement:
CVT belt replacement is crucial and usually recommended between 15,000-20,000 km. Manual will confirm.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify. (e.g., Piaggio Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1. Manual will specify. Crucial for brake performance and safety.
Common Wear Items:
CVT belt, variator rollers, brake pads, tires, suspension bushings (common to most scooters)
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Italian scooters can sometimes have minor electrical connection issues if not properly maintained. The manual's wiring diagrams are invaluable here.
Gilera Heritage:
Gilera is an Italian manufacturer with a long history in motorcycle racing and production, known for performance-oriented models and innovative designs.
Nexus Lineage:
The Gilera Nexus line was positioned as a sporty, high-performance maxi-scooter, blending motorcycle-like handling with scooter practicality. The 300cc variant offered a more accessible yet potent option within this range.
Manufacturer Ownership:
In 2008, Gilera was part of the Piaggio Group, which also owns Vespa, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi. This meant access to shared technology and components, particularly Piaggio's Quasar engine platform.
