The Generic Trigger 50 (2008-2014): A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse for Urban Thrills and Off-Road Adventures

Introduction

The Generic Trigger 50, produced between 2008 and 2014, is a fascinating study in versatility. Designed as a lightweight, two-stroke machine, it straddles the line between urban commuter, supermoto toy, and off-road adventurer. With multiple trims like the Mini Trigger SM, Trigger X, and Competition variants, this 50cc platform offers something for every rider looking to squeeze excitement out of a compact package. After spending time with several examples of this generation, it’s clear why it developed a cult following among riders who value simplicity, agility, and customization potential.

Design: Small Stature, Big Personality

At first glance, the Trigger 50’s dimensions tell the story of a bike built for maneuverability. With an overall length of 1,420–2,060 mm (55.9–81.1 inches) depending on the trim, it’s compact enough to thread through city traffic yet substantial enough to feel planted on dirt trails. The Mini Trigger SM variant tips the scales at just 50 kg (110 lbs) wet, making it laughably easy to maneuver at low speeds or haul onto a trailer.

The supermoto versions (SM trims) feature 17-inch wheels with street-biased tires like 130/80-17 rear and 110/80-17 front, while the off-road-focused Trigger X models ride on chunky 3.00-21 front and 4.10-18 rear rubber. Color options ranged from vibrant greens and oranges to more subdued black/white/red schemes, with later models adding metallic accents that gave the plastic bodywork a surprisingly premium look.

Standout design elements include: - USD forks on higher-spec models (a rarity in this class) - Wave-style brake rotors for improved stopping power - Two-person seating on some variants, though the rear perch is best reserved for very small passengers

Engine & Performance: Two-Stroke Simplicity

The beating heart across all Trigger 50 models is an air-cooled, single-cylinder two-stroke engine displacing 49.3–49.6cc. Output figures vary between trims: - Mini Trigger SM: 5 HP @ 11,000 RPM / 5 Nm torque - Trigger X/Competition: 1.4–1.9 HP @ 5,500 RPM / 2.6 Nm torque

The higher-output Mini Trigger’s powerband is typical of a tuned two-stroke – docile at low revs, then surging to life with a raspy exhaust note above 8,000 RPM. It’s not fast by absolute standards (top speed around 60 km/h or 37 mph), but the 53 kg (117 lb) dry weight makes acceleration feel brisk. The lower-powered variants prioritize tractable low-end torque, better suited to technical off-road work.

Transmission options split the lineup: - Automatic centrifugal clutch (Mini Trigger SM) - 6-speed manual (Competition/X models)

The 6-speed gearbox is a standout feature, allowing precise control in dirt sections. Clutch action varies between the oil-bath multiplate units (Competition) and simpler centrifugal systems, with the former offering more rider control for advanced techniques.

Handling: Lightness as a Virtue

Riding the Trigger 50 feels like piloting a bicycle with a motor attached. The 1,022–1,390 mm (40.2–54.7 inch) wheelbase and steep steering geometry make direction changes instantaneous. On tight supermoto circuits or wooded trails, this agility is intoxicating. The downside? Stability suffers at higher speeds – these are bikes that reward technical riding over straight-line bravado.

Suspension performance depends on the variant: - USD forks (SM Competition models) offer 180 mm (7.1") of travel with adjustable preload - Conventional telescopic forks on base models still provide 150 mm (5.9") of plush travel

Even basic models handle moderate jumps and whoops with composure, though serious off-roaders will want to upgrade the rear shock. Braking is via single discs front/rear, with wave rotors on later models improving feel in wet conditions.

Competition: How the Trigger 50 Stacks Up

In the 50cc mini/supermoto segment, the Trigger 50 faced off against:

1. Yamaha DT50X

• Advantages: Better dealer network, liquid cooling
• Trigger’s Edge: Lighter weight (DT50X is 84 kg/185 lbs), more aggressive styling

2. KTM 50 SX

• Advantages: Race-bred suspension, 19 HP (but requires frequent rebuilds)
• Trigger’s Edge: Lower maintenance, street-legal variants

3. Derbi Senda DRD Pro

• Advantages: Higher build quality, 6-speed transmission
• Trigger’s Edge: More affordable aftermarket parts, easier home maintenance

Where the Trigger 50 truly shines is customization. The simple design and abundant MOTOPARTS.store upgrades let owners easily transform a base model into a fire-breathing mini motard or reliable trail companion.

Maintenance: Keeping the Trigger Pulling

The two-stroke engine demands regular attention but rewards with simplicity. Key considerations:

1. Oil & Lubrication

• Use JASO-FD certified 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 mix ratio
• Fresh oil lubrication system requires checking the injector pump cabling

2. Spark Plugs

• Standard: NGK BR9ES (0.5–0.7 mm gap)
• Performance upgrade: NGK BR9EIX iridium

3. Chain Care

• 428 pitch chains need adjustment every 500 km (310 miles)
• Upgrade to O-ring chain for longer service intervals

4. Tire Pressures

• Street: 1.75 bar front / 2.0 bar rear (25 psi / 29 psi)
• Off-road: 1.2 bar front / 1.5 bar rear (17 psi / 22 psi)

5. Seasonal Storage

• Drain carburetor (ethanol fuel gums up quickly)
• Stabilize fuel with Motorex Fuel Stabilizer

Conclusion: Small Bike, Big Grins

The Generic Trigger 50 generation proves that displacement isn’t everything. Whether carving city streets on SM rubber or picking through single-track trails, these bikes deliver an engaging ride that’s accessible to novices yet still entertaining for experts. Their real magic lies in how they encourage skill development – mastering cornering techniques on a 50 kg machine builds confidence that translates to bigger bikes.

For owners today, the thriving aftermarket (including MOTOPARTS.store’s extensive catalog) means keeping these lightweights running strong is easier than ever. From performance exhausts to upgraded suspension components, the Trigger 50 remains a blank canvas for riders to imprint their personality – one thrilling ride at a time.

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Specifications sheet

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