CPI GTR 50 (2005-2014): A Sporty Gateway to Two-Stroke Thrills

For over a decade, the CPI GTR 50 carved its niche as an entry-level sport-style scooter that blended aggressive styling with accessible performance. Designed to appeal to new riders and urban commuters alike, this 50cc machine delivered just enough pep to feel engaging while remaining approachable for those taking their first steps into motorized two-wheeled freedom. Let's dissect what made this generation memorable.

Design & First Impressions: Sporty Aesthetics Meet Practicality

At first glance, the GTR 50 looks like it's itching to hit a racetrack. The sharp, angular bodywork with its twin-headlight façade and dual-color liveries (red/white and blue/black being particularly eye-catching) gives it a purposeful stance that belies its modest displacement. The 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in chunky 110/70 front and 130/60 rear tires add to the illusion of a pocket rocket, though the 830mm (32.7") seat height ensures even shorter riders can plant their feet firmly at stops.

Practical touches abound: - A lockable 9L (2.38 US gal) fuel tank under the flip-up seat - Underseat storage (modest but useful for a rain jacket or small lock) - Digital dash with tachometer - rare in this class - Center stand and side stand combo for easy parking

The switchgear feels plasticky but logically arranged, while the halogen headlight throws an adequate (if not stellar) beam for evening rides. Over years of production, CPI tweaked minor details - some models sported blacked-out engine casings, others added racing-style decals - but the core design language remained consistently bold.

Engine & Performance: The Two-Stroke Charmer

Beating at the heart of this scooter is a liquid-cooled 49.2cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine producing 4.4 HP (3.2 kW) at 6,550 RPM. While these numbers seem minuscule, the two-stroke's inherent characteristics make it feel livelier than the specs suggest:

• Throttle Response: Instantaneous. Crack the twist grip, and the CVT automatic transmission sends power through the belt drive with zero lag.
• Power Band: Hits hardest between 5,000-7,000 RPM, pushing the 124kg (273 lb) dry weight to a governed top speed around 60 km/h (37 mph) - perfect for city limits.
• Soundtrack: The stainless steel exhaust barks with that classic two-stroke rasp under acceleration, mellowing to a burble at cruising speeds.

Fuel economy sits at a claimed 2.3L/100km (102 US mpg), though real-world riding often sees closer to 3L/100km (78 mpg) when exploiting the engine's playful nature. The liquid cooling system (uncommon in 50cc peers) helps maintain consistent performance during stop-and-go traffic marathons.

Riding Experience: Urban Acrobat, Highway Novice

Swing a leg over the GTR 50, and its ergonomics immediately signal "sport-lite." The slightly rear-set footpegs encourage a leaned-in posture, while the wide handlebars allow quick steering inputs. At low speeds, the 17-inch wheels feel stable compared to smaller 10-14" scooter hoops, though they demand more effort in tight U-turns.

City Performance:
Where this CPI shines brightest. The combination of: - 50:50 weight distribution - Adjustable rear hydraulic suspension - 210mm front disc brake (later models; early versions used drums) ...makes it a lane-splitting maestro. Darting between traffic requires minimal effort, and the suspension soaks up potholes better than expected.

Highway Limitations:
Beyond 50 km/h (31 mph), the experience unravels. Crosswinds buffet the tall bodywork, and the engine screams near its rev limiter. This isn't a machine for intercity commutes, but that's not its intended purpose.

The hydraulic telescopic fork and gas-charged rear shocks (adjustable for preload) strike a commendable balance between comfort and control. Riders over 70kg (154 lbs) might want to stiffen the rear settings to prevent bottoming out over sharp bumps.

Competition: How It Stacked Up

In the 50cc sport scooter arena, the GTR 50 faced fierce rivals:

1. Aprilia SR 50:
2. Superior water-cooled Piaggio engine (6.7 HP)
3. Sachs suspension components
4. Nearly double the price when new

5. Verdict: Better performer, but harder on the wallet

6. Yamaha Aerox 50:

7. Legendary Yamaha reliability
8. More storage space
9. Softer suspension tuning

10. Verdict: Practical choice, less exciting ride

11. Peugeot Speedfight 3:

12. French styling flair
13. Lighter at 108kg (238 lbs)
14. Air-cooled engine felt rougher
15. Verdict: Trendier image, comparable performance

The CPI's ace cards were its aggressive styling, liquid cooling, and approachable pricing. While it couldn't match the Aprilia's outright speed or Yamaha's dealer network, it offered 90% of the fun at 75% of the cost.

Maintenance: Keeping the Two-Stroke Alive

Owning a GTR 50 means embracing two-stroke maintenance rituals. Here's what owners should prioritize:

1. Oil Injection System:
2. Use JASO-FD certified 2T oil
3. Check reservoir levels every fill-up

4. Clean oil pump filter annually

5. Spark Plugs:

6. NGK BR7ES (standard) or BR7EIX (iridium upgrade)
7. Gap to 0.8mm (0.031")

8. Replace every 3,000 km (1,864 mi)

9. Cooling System:

10. Flush with distilled water and antifreeze mix yearly

11. Check hoses for cracks at temperature extremes

12. CVT Maintenance:

13. Clean variator rollers every 5,000 km (3,107 mi)
14. Inspect drive belt for cracks (replace at 10,000 km/6,214 mi)

15. MOTOPARTS.store Pro Tip: Upgrading to a kevlar-reinforced belt reduces slippage

16. Carburetor Tuning:

17. Clean pilot jet monthly if ridden infrequently
18. Adjust idle screw (1.5 turns out from seated position)
19. Consider a 70cc big-bore kit for enthusiasts (where legal)

The stainless steel exhaust resists corrosion well, but the expansion chamber welds should be inspected annually. For brake maintenance, stick with DOT 4 fluid changes every two years and sintered pads for the front disc.

Longevity & Upgrades: Growing with Your GTR

Many GTR 50s have clocked over 30,000 km (18,641 mi) with proper care. Common wear items include: - Fuel petcock seals (replace with viton) - Reed valve petals (upgrade to carbon fiber) - Wheel bearings (sealed units last longer)

Popular MOTOPARTS.store upgrades: - Performance:
- Malossi Multivar 2000 variator (+15% acceleration) - Leo Vince ZX-R exhaust (+1.2 HP, throatier note) - K&N-style air filter (requires rejetting)

• Comfort:
• Gel seat cover (reduces numb-bum on long rides)
• Bar-end mirrors (wider view, cleaner look)

• LED headlight conversion (better nighttime visibility)

• Aesthetics:

• Anodized brake fluid caps
• Custom decal kits
• Colored chain guards

Conclusion: A Characterful Starter Steed

The CPI GTR 50 generation (2005-2014) remains a compelling choice for riders seeking an inexpensive, stylish entry into motorcycling. Its two-stroke engine delivers just enough zing to keep commutes entertaining, while the sporty ergonomics help new riders build confidence before stepping up to larger machines. Though it lacks the polish of Japanese rivals, its mechanical simplicity and aftermarket support make it a tinkerer's delight.

Would we recommend it today? For urban warriors under 85kg (187 lbs) who relish hands-on ownership, absolutely. Pair it with quality consumables from MOTOPARTS.store, and this plucky scooter will reward with miles of smokey smiles.

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Specifications sheet

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