Gilera Runner 200 (2008-2012): The Sporty Scooter That Still Turns Heads

Introduction

When Gilera introduced the Runner 200 series in 2008, they didn't just create another commuter scooter - they built a two-wheeled statement. This Italian-designed machine straddles the line between practical urban runabout and weekend canyon carver with surprising grace. After spending a day threading through city traffic and carving country roads on a well-maintained 2011 ST 200 model, it's clear why this scooter still has passionate fans over a decade later.

The Runner 200's secret lies in its motorcycle-inspired DNA. Unlike typical plastic-clad scooters, this Gilera feels substantial between your legs, with wide 14-inch front and 13-inch rear wheels that telegraph stability before you even twist the throttle. Let's dissect what makes this generation special.

Design & First Impressions

Parked at a café, the Runner 200 demands attention. The angular bodywork aged remarkably well, looking more aggressive than modern maxi-scooters' rounded forms. Our test bike's blood-red paint with black accents (a signature color scheme) pops in sunlight, while the twin-headlight front end gives it proper road presence.

Built around a steel tube frame with pressed steel reinforcements, the Runner carries its 138 kg (304 lbs) dry weight low. The stepped seat at 820mm (32.3") feels accessible for most riders, though shorter legs might tiptoe at stops. That 7-liter (1.85 gal) fuel tank sits flush under the floorboards - a design choice keeping the center of gravity motorcycle-low rather than scooter-high.

Practical touches include: - Lockable under-seat storage (fits a full-face helmet) - Optional windshield (on ST models) - Analog-digital dash with basic trip computer - Chunty rear grab rail doubling as a rack

Engine & Performance

The heart is a 198cc liquid-cooled four-stroke that punches above its displacement. With 18.8 HP (13.7 kW) @ 8,750 RPM and 17 Nm (12.5 ft.lbs) torque peaking at 7,250 RPM, acceleration feels urgent rather than frantic. The CVT transmission eliminates gear changes, delivering power in one smooth surge.

0-50 km/h (0-31 mph) comes up in about 5 seconds - enough to gap most traffic lights. Top speed sits at an indicated 115 km/h (71 mph), though maintaining 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways requires patience on steeper grades. What impresses most is the engine's flexibility; whether puttering through town at 40 km/h (25 mph) or holding 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, the single-cylinder remains vibration-free thanks to its counterbalancer.

The liquid cooling system (uncommon in 200cc scooters) proves its worth in stop-and-go traffic. Even after an hour of urban abuse, our test bike's temperature gauge never crept past midway. Fuel economy averaged 30 km/l (70 mpg) during mixed riding, giving a 210 km (130 mile) range from the 7-liter tank.

Handling & Ride Quality

This is where the Runner 200 separates from the scooter pack. The upside-down 35mm front forks and preload-adjustable dual rear shocks (ST model) deliver handling that shames many motorcycles. At low speeds, the 1,340mm (52.8") wheelbase feels slightly long, requiring conscious countersteering in tight U-turns. But once rolling above 30 km/h (19 mph), the Gilera transforms.

Lean angles surprise first-time riders. The 120/70-14 front and 140/60-13 Michelin Power Pure tires offer tenacious grip, letting you scrape footpegs through roundabouts. Braking from 70 km/h (43 mph) is confidence-inspiring thanks to 220mm discs front/rear with dual-piston calipers. ABS wasn't available, but the combined braking system proportionally distributes force between wheels.

Ride quality skews sporty yet compliant. Expansion joints register as muted thumps rather than spine jolts, while the seat's firm foam supports during hour-long rides. At highway speeds, wind protection depends on model variants - the ST's optional screen helps, but taller riders might still catch helmet buffeting.

Comfort & Practicality

Gilera nailed the ergonomic sweet spot between sport and comfort. The floorboards accommodate size 12 boots easily, while the slightly rear-set pegs create a natural knees-up riding position. The one-piece seat's 820mm (32.3") height works for 5'7" to 6' riders, though the narrow front section lets shorter inseams reach ground.

Storage solutions impress: - 22L under-seat compartment (fits full-face helmet + gloves) - Lockable glovebox with 12V outlet - Optional top case compatibility - Hook for grocery bags between knees

Vibration is virtually nonexistent thanks to the engine's rubber mounts. Our 100km test ride left no numbness in hands or backside - a rarity in single-cylinder machines. The mirrors stay clear up to 90 km/h, and the center stand engages with a satisfying clunk.

Competition

In its era, the Runner 200 faced fierce rivals:

1. Yamaha TMAX 500: More powerful (499cc) but nearly double the price. The TMAX wins in touring comfort but feels less playful in corners.

2. Honda SH300i: The practical choice with 279cc and Honda reliability. However, its smaller wheels can't match the Gilera's highway stability.

3. Aprilia SRV 850: A closer Italian cousin with V-twin power. Faster but heavier - the Aprilia feels like a muscle car to Gilera's hot hatch.

Where the Runner 200 shines is balance. It offers 80% of the TMAX's capability at 60% of the weight and cost. The Honda can't match its sporting pedigree, while Chinese clones lack the refined suspension. Even today, used Runners hold value better than most contemporaries thanks to their cult following.

Maintenance & Upgrades

Owning a Runner 200 means embracing Italian character. These scooters reward meticulous maintenance but punish neglect. Key areas to watch:

1. Engine Oil: Use full synthetic SAE 5W-40 (1L with filter change). MOTOPARTS.store carries Motul 5100 5W-40 - ideal for the high-revving four-stroke.

2. Coolant: Replace every 2 years/15,000 km. Our 1.8L capacity recommendation: LIQUI MOLY Motorbike Antifreeze.

3. CVT Belt: Inspect every 10,000 km. Upgrade to a Malossi Kevlar belt for sharper acceleration.

4. Brakes: OEM pads can be dusty. Consider EBC FA188HH sintered pads for better bite.

5. Suspension: Refresh fork oil every 20,000 km. For heavier riders, Hyperpro progressive springs transform the rear damping.

Common upgrades include: - Malossi 70cc big bore kits (for restricted markets) - LeoVince ZX-R exhaust (Euro 3 compliant) - Pirelli Diablo Rosso scooter tires - GIVI windscreens and top cases

The Runner's modular design makes DIY maintenance achievable. Valve adjustments every 12,000 km require basic tools, while the accessible air filter (under the seat) takes 5 minutes to swap. Always use NGK CR8EB plugs - we've seen cheaper alternatives cause misfires.

Conclusion

Spending time with the Gilera Runner 200 generation reveals why these scooters developed such a devoted following. They deliver motorcycle-grade dynamics in a practical package that's equally at home in Milan's fashion district or Switzerland's mountain passes. While not perfect - the seat could be plusher, and fuel injection would help cold starts - its strengths overshadow quirks.

What endears most is how the Runner makes every ride an event. The throaty exhaust note under acceleration, the way it flicks through chicanes, even the approving nods from motorcyclists at red lights - this is a scooter that refuses to be boring. For urban warriors wanting style and substance, or canyon carvers on a budget, the 2008-2012 Runner remains compelling.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep these legends rolling with OEM and performance parts. Whether you need a new CVT belt or want to transform your Runner into a 70mph tourer, our catalog has you covered. Aftermarket support is strong - proof that great design never goes out of style.

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Specifications sheet

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