Segment:
Maxi-scooter / Sport-scooter
Target Audience:
Commuters seeking performance and comfort, touring riders, enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Suzuki Burgman 400/650, Yamaha TMAX 500, Honda Silver Wing 600, Aprilia Leonardo 250/300 (though Nexus 500 is higher performance).
Unique Selling Points:
Powerful 500cc engine, sporty handling, comfortable ride, ample storage, Italian design.
Manual Value:
Enables DIY maintenance and repairs, cost savings, extended vehicle lifespan, deeper understanding of the machine.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, internal components, lubrication, cooling system, fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (CVT) operation, maintenance, component inspection, fluid service, troubleshooting.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheel bearings, swingarm maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, hydraulic lines, caliper maintenance, brake fluid replacement, ABS (if equipped) system diagnosis.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system, starter motor, lighting system, instrument panel, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnosis, sensor troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, fuel injector service, throttle body cleaning and calibration, fuel pressure testing.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement, catalytic converter information.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat service, panel fitment, lighting component replacement.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable to variant), tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including disassembly and reassembly.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures with torque specifications and clearances.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for electronic systems, EFI, and ABS using factory tools or equivalent methods.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic user maintenance to full engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Engine Displacement:
493 cc
Engine Configuration:
Single-cylinder, 4-stroke
Engine Cooling:
Liquid-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
95 mm x 69.5 mm (typical)
Valve Train:
SOHC, 4 valves
Horsepower:
~39 HP (approx. 29 kW) at ~7,500 RPM
Torque:
~45 Nm (approx. 33 lb-ft) at ~5,000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, CDI
Emission Compliance:
Euro 3 (E3)
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Motorcycle/Scooter specific ratings not typically public in the same way as cars).
Braking System:
Disc brakes front and rear. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may be available depending on specific variant/market.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillights and indicators (typical).
Chassis Design:
Steel frame providing structural rigidity.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital/Analog combination display with speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meters, and warning lights.
ABS:
Available as an option on some models, significantly enhances braking safety.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-II or proprietary diagnostic connector for ECU communication.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first (typical for this model, refer to manual for exact specification).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km or as needed based on conditions (refer to manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 km or 1 year (refer to manual for exact type and interval).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or as recommended by manufacturer.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG, JASO MA/MA2 specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
~1.7 liters (with filter change, refer to manual for precise capacity).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for confirmation and specific recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Wear Items:
CVT belt wear, voltage regulator failure, fuel pump issues (typical for many scooters of this age).
Diagnostic Challenges:
Electronic issues related to sensors or ECU may require specialized diagnostic tools.
Manufacturer:
Gilera is an Italian manufacturer with a long history in motorcycle production, known for sporty and performance-oriented models.
Nexus Lineage:
The Nexus series was Gilera's premium maxi-scooter offering, focusing on performance and motorcycle-like handling. The 500cc model represented the pinnacle of its performance within the lineup.
Production Period:
The Nexus 500 was primarily produced in the mid-2000s, with the mk2 designation indicating a refined version. It was part of the Piaggio Group's portfolio.
