Garelli 50 XO [2010-2022] Review: A Timeless Urban Companion
Introduction
The Garelli 50 XO has carved out its niche as a reliable urban workhorse since its debut in 2010. Designed for city commuters and scooter enthusiasts who value simplicity and practicality, this two-stroke scooter has maintained a surprisingly loyal following despite the rise of modern four-stroke alternatives. After spending a week weaving through traffic and navigating narrow streets on this Italian-designed machine, it’s clear why the XO 50 remains relevant even in 2022. Let’s dive into what makes this scooter tick—and why it might just be the perfect companion for your daily grind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Garelli XO 50’s design philosophy screams “function over flair.” Its boxy silhouette, angular body panels, and minimalist aesthetic give it a retro-modern vibe that stands out in a sea of curvy competitors. The 2010-2022 model retains a no-nonsense approach with clean lines and a compact footprint. At 1,960 mm (77.2 inches) long and 690 mm (27.2 inches) wide, it slips through traffic like a hot knife through butter, while the 820 mm seat height accommodates riders of all sizes.
Color options—black, white, and beige—are deliberately understated, appealing to riders who prefer subtlety over showmanship. The flat seat design offers ample room for solo riders, though the lack of rear grip handles makes pillions an afterthought. Storage is limited to a small under-seat compartment (just enough for a helmet liner and toolkit), but the flat floorboard provides space for a grocery bag or small backpack.
Engine & Performance
The Heart of the Matter
At the core of the XO 50 lies a 49.3 cc (3.01 cubic inches) air-cooled, single-cylinder two-stroke engine. While this might sound archaic in an era dominated by four-strokes, there’s a certain charm to its buzzy character. The carbureted fuel system and CDI ignition keep things refreshingly simple, requiring minimal electronics to interfere with the raw riding experience.
Thumb the electric starter (or give the kick lever a firm jab), and the engine springs to life with a familiar two-stroke rasp. Acceleration is peppy off the line, with the automatic belt-driven transmission delivering smooth power to the rear wheel. Top speed hovers around 60 km/h (37 mph)—enough to keep up with urban traffic but not so fast that it feels strained. Fuel economy is decent at roughly 30 km/l (70 mpg), though this depends heavily on how aggressively you ride the notoriously thirsty two-stroke.
Rideability Quirks
The engine’s narrow powerband means you’ll need to rev it hard to stay in the sweet spot, which can get tiring during long rides. Vibrations become noticeable above 45 km/h (28 mph), numbing your hands if you’re not wearing gloves. Still, there’s joy in its analog nature—no traction control, ride modes, or ABS here. Just you, a twist grip, and the mechanical symphony of a dying breed.
Handling & Ride Comfort
Chassis Dynamics
Weighing in at 82 kg (180.8 lbs), the XO 50 feels almost weightless at low speeds. The 1,410 mm (55.5-inch) wheelbase and 14-inch rear/16-inch front tire combo strike a balance between stability and agility. Lean it into corners, and the suspension—90 mm (3.5 inches) of travel up front and 70 mm (2.8 inches) at the rear—soaks up minor bumps without drama. Larger potholes, however, will send a jolt through the chassis, reminding you this is a budget-oriented machine.
Braking Performance
Braking duties are handled by a single front disc and a rear drum. The front brake offers adequate bite for emergency stops, but the rear drum lacks progression, often locking up if you’re too heavy-footed. This setup works fine in dry conditions but demands caution when riding in the rain.
Competition
The 50cc scooter market is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Garelli stacks up:
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Honda Vision 50:
Honda’s four-stroke engine is smoother and more fuel-efficient, but it lacks the XO 50’s punchy low-end torque. The Vision also feels more plasticky, though its reputation for reliability is unmatched. -
Yamaha Neos 50:
Yamaha’s liquid-cooled engine delivers superior performance and refinement, but it’s heavier and more complex to maintain. The Neos appeals to tech-savvy riders, while the Garelli wins on simplicity. -
Aprilia SR 50:
A sportier option with sharper styling and better suspension, the Aprilia targets younger riders. However, its higher maintenance costs and temperamental electronics make the XO 50 seem bulletproof by comparison.
Verdict: The Garelli XO 50 isn’t the fastest or most advanced scooter in its class, but its mechanical simplicity and lightweight design make it ideal for riders who prioritize ease of maintenance over cutting-edge features.
Maintenance
Key Considerations
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Two-Stroke Upkeep:
The oil-injected engine requires regular premix checks (1 liter oil capacity). Use high-quality synthetic two-stroke oil to minimize smoke and carbon buildup. MOTOPARTS.store offers a range of oils specifically formulated for vintage scooters. -
Carburetor Care:
The carburettor is prone to clogging if left unused. Consider installing an inline fuel filter or upgrading to a modern Mikuni carb from our catalog for smoother cold starts. -
Belt & Drivetrain:
Inspect the final drive belt every 3,000 km (1,864 miles). Cracks or fraying demand immediate replacement—thankfully, our store stocks durable aftermarket belts that outlast OEM parts. -
Brake Upgrades:
Swap the rear drum for a semi-metallic shoe set (available at MOTOPARTS.store) to improve braking feel. For aggressive riders, a wave-style front rotor adds bite without breaking the bank. -
Suspension Tweaks:
The basic rear shock struggles with heavy loads. Upgrade to an adjustable aftermarket unit for better damping control during solo rides.
Pro Tip:
Keep the exhaust clean—the Euro 2-compliant system is sensitive to carbon deposits. Our selection of exhaust cleaners and heat-resistant sprays will help maintain optimal airflow.
Conclusion
The Garelli 50 XO isn’t trying to win spec sheet battles. It’s a scooter built for riders who appreciate mechanical honesty and unfiltered riding feedback. Yes, it vibrates. Yes, it guzzles oil. But there’s an undeniable charm in its analog nature—a reminder of a time when motorcycles were less about gadgets and more about pure, unadulterated mobility. For city dwellers seeking a low-maintenance companion that’s easy to repair and even easier to park, the XO 50 remains a compelling choice. And when it’s time to replace that worn belt or upgrade the brakes, you know where to find us. 😉
