Malaguti Madison 125 [2007-2011] Review: A Sporty Scooter With Italian Flair

Introduction

The Malaguti Madison 125, produced between 2007 and 2011, represents an intriguing chapter in European scooter history. Blending Italian design sensibilities with practical urban mobility, this maxi-scooter aimed to stand out in the crowded 125cc segment. After spending a week with a well-maintained 2010 model, it’s clear this scooter offers a distinct personality – though not without compromises.

With its angular bodywork, liquid-cooled engine, and aggressive stance, the Madison feels like a two-wheeled counterpart to sport compact cars of the same era. Let’s dissect what makes this Italian contender worth considering – and where it falls short against Japanese rivals.

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Design & Styling

Malaguti’s designers clearly channeled automotive influences here. The Madison’s pointed nose, angular LED-accented headlights (on later models), and chiseled body panels give it a more aggressive look than the typical egg-shaped scooter. The dual-tone color options – particularly the vibrant Orange and deep Velvet Black – accentuate these lines beautifully.

At 1,980 mm (78 inches) long and 795 mm (31.3 inches) tall, it’s bulkier than most 125cc rivals. The upside? A commanding road presence. The downside? Maneuvering through tight city gaps requires more caution than with a Honda SH125. The 1410 mm (55.5-inch) wheelbase contributes to stable highway manners, though.

Build quality shows some cost-cutting – plastic panels flex more than on Japanese competitors, and the 153 kg (337 lbs) dry weight feels substantial. However, the tubular steel frame feels robust, and the overall aesthetic has aged better than many contemporaries.

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Engine & Performance

Here’s where things get interesting. Malaguti offered two engine variants during this generation:

1. 14.8 HP Carbureted Version (2007-2009)
2. 124cc liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve
3. 12 Nm (8.9 lb-ft) torque @ 10,000 RPM

4. Carbureted fuel system

5. 22 HP Fuel-Injected "125ie" (2007-2011)

6. 124cc with revised tuning
7. 21.5 Nm (15.9 lb-ft) @ 6,750 RPM
8. Fuel injection

The carbureted model feels adequate for city commuting, reaching 90 km/h (56 mph) with patience. The fuel-injected variant transforms the experience – it’ll hit 110 km/h (68 mph) confidently, with a stronger mid-range punch. Both use a smooth CVT transmission, but the 125ie’s torque curve makes highway overtaking less stressful.

Cold starts can be finicky on carbureted models – our test bike needed 30 seconds of warm-up on chilly mornings. The liquid cooling system (unusual in this class) keeps temps stable during sustained high-speed runs. At 10,000 RPM, the engine sounds busy but not strained, with a throaty exhaust note from the catalytic converter system.

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Handling & Ride Quality

The Madison’s 14-inch wheels strike a great balance between stability and agility. Over broken city roads, the suspension soaks up bumps decently – the 35mm hydraulic front fork and twin rear shocks perform adequately, though heavier riders might want stiffer springs.

Lean angles surprise for a maxi-scooter. You can scrape the center stand mid-corner, but the wide floorboard provides excellent foot placement. At low speeds, the 153-158 kg (337-348 lbs) weight is noticeable – parking lot maneuvers demand more effort than a 100kg Honda SH.

Braking is competent with 240mm discs front/rear. ABS wasn’t available, but the combined braking system (on later models) distributes force well. Upgrading to sintered pads (available at MOTOPARTS.store) improves bite significantly.

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Comfort & Practicality

The 795mm (31.3-inch) seat height accommodates taller riders better than most scooters – great for 6-footers, challenging for those under 5’5”. The seat itself is firm yet supportive for 1-2 hour rides. Wind protection is mediocre – taller riders might want an aftermarket screen.

Storage is a mixed bag. The underseat compartment fits a full-face helmet (barely), and the locking glovebox includes a 12V socket. Missing are hook points for bags – an oversight for grocery runs. The 8.5-9.5L (2.25-2.51 gal) fuel tank enables 250-300 km (155-186 mi) ranges, depending on riding style.

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Competition

The Madison’s main rivals show clear trade-offs:

1. Piaggio Beverly 125
2. Superior storage and dealer network

3. Softer suspension less sporty

4. Honda SH125

5. Legendary reliability

6. Duller styling and higher price

7. Yamaha Majesty 125

8. Plush long-distance comfort
9. Heavier and less agile

Where the Malaguti shines is personality. The sporty engine (in 125ie trim) and head-turning design attract riders bored of utilitarian options. However, parts availability and long-term durability trail Japanese rivals – making aftermarket support from MOTOPARTS.store crucial for owners.

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Maintenance

Owning a Madison requires vigilance:

1. Belt Drive
   Replace every 15,000 km (9,300 mi). Use OEM-spec reinforced belts for smoother power delivery.

2. Cooling System
   Flush coolant every 2 years. Check for leaks around the water pump (a known weak spot).

3. Carburetor Care (Pre-125ie models)
   Clean jets annually. Consider upgrading to a fuel injection kit if persistent issues arise.

4. Brakes
   Pads wear faster than Japanese models. Keep spares handy – our copper-ceramic pads reduce dust.

5. Suspension
   Lubricate swingarm bearings every 10,000 km. Upgrade rear shocks if carrying passengers regularly.

Pro Tip: The complex bodywork makes DIY repairs challenging. Invest in a factory service manual and proper panel removal tools.

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Final Thoughts

The Malaguti Madison 125 remains a fascinating alternative for riders valuing style over convention. While not as polished as Japanese rivals, its character and surprising performance (in 125ie guise) justify consideration. With proper maintenance – aided by MOTOPARTS.store’s extensive catalog – these scooters can deliver years of grinning commutes and weekend adventures.

For owners looking to enhance their Madison, we recommend:
- High-performance CVT kits
- Upgraded brake pads
- Custom windscreens
- Reinforced drive belts

Check our curated Malaguti parts collection to keep your Italian steed running strong.

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Specifications sheet

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