It’s rare that we keep an Aprilia SXR 50 in the showroom for long as its styling, reliability and affordable price tag make it a popular choice amongst young riders. In fact, when the time comes for them to upgrade to a 125 it’s often a sad farewell. However, for those looking at their options after turning 17, or older city riders who just want a little more there’s now an alternative to buying a new scooter and it comes courtesy of Polini. Thanks to their research team, we’re pleased to present a preview of what’s on offer and how it makes the SXR 50 an even more capable machine to ride.
Step 1: Map 1, ECU and Variator
The first step is the installation of a Polini ECM electronic control unit. It might seem like a minor detail, but without it, everything else remains ‘asleep’. The ECU doesn’t just activate components; it orchestrates them through three different maps, specifically designed to match each stage of tuning. And trust us: even if you only change the transmission ratios, without the ECU, the benefits are not perceptible.
Fitting is simplicity itself, just unplug the genuine ECU and replace it with the Polini ECM. It's a matter of minutes, fully plug and play. With just this switch, you immediately raise the redline: the engine goes from 7.500 to 8.600 RPM, the sound livens up, and the speedometer starts showing a few extra km/h. Combined with the Polini HI-Speed variator, even with the original engine, top speed jumps from 45 to 50/53 km/h. Throttle response becomes quicker, and every start from a traffic light delivers that punch that makes a real difference in everyday riding.
In heavy traffic, among pushing cars and weaving scooters, the sensation is one of ‘lightness’, as if the scooter weighed less. The engine revs more freely, passing slow buses or escaping a jam becomes effortless and instinctive. There's also a slightly sportier exhaust note; never intrusive but it adds some pleasant, satisfying feedback under the seat.
The city? It feels smaller, because you move through it more quickly and enjoy the satisfaction of always beating the green light.
Step 2: Raising the Bar: Map 2, Valve Springs, and Variator.
When the desire to personalise your ride goes beyond curiosity and you install the Polini valve springs, the game really changes. A professional mechanic is needed for the job, but the results are immediately noticeable as soon as you leave the garage.
The engine becomes more responsive in every condition, and the rev limiter increases to 10,000 RPM. Now, at full throttle coming out of a corner, the scooter gains speed more decisively. Acceleration becomes stronger, and the scooter always feels like it has extra power in reserve. Speeds of 54–55 km/h are easily within reach, but most importantly, the smoothness of the engine significantly elevates the experience. Even on steeper climbs, the feeling is that of an engine never ‘tired’ and constantly urges you to push further.
The best part is that, despite the extra bite, the scooter remains easy and pleasant to ride: no jerks, no roughness; just a progressive, steady pull that makes riding fun.
Step 3: Character Unleashed: Map 3, Cylinder Kit, and Long Gears
This is the big change and one that’s immediately felt. With Polini 49 mm cylinder and special long steel gearing, the SXR becomes a superhero disguised as a city scooter.
At the first acceleration, the engine revs quickly, and speed climbs past 70 km/h. But more than the numbers, it’s the sensation that changes: power delivery becomes fuller, more robust, and the sound turns deep and metallic. On hills, there’s no sign of fatigue, and in tight corners, acceleration outpaces the rest. Comfort remains surprisingly high: no vibrations, just the satisfying feeling of a breathing engine that never seems to run out of steam. The long gears are key to harnessing all that energy without sacrificing smoothness, the scooter never revs up; in fact, it seems to beg for more, lap after lap.
Face-Off: Polini SXR 50 vs. Stock SXR 50
Those who are familiar with riding a genuine SXR 50 know its strengths well: it’s a trustworthy, reliable scooter, designed to navigate city traffic with ease; quiet, calm, and uncomplicated. It starts easily, has low fuel consumption, and is appreciated for its simplicity. But the moment you hop on an SXR 50 tuned with Polini Motori parts, designed to bring this model to life, the difference is obvious from the very first meter.
On the stock version, every manoeuvre requires patience: starts from traffic lights are gentle, almost too polite. You have to plan overtakes carefully, especially on inclines or with a passenger. There’s just enough power to keep up with traffic, but anyone looking for a bit of excitement will feel limited, especially when there’s an open stretch ahead.
With Polini’s tuning, though, the SXR 50 takes on a whole new personality. Throttle response becomes instantly sharper, the engine revs quicker, and takeoffs are surprisingly brisk. Every start becomes a moment to enjoy the refined four-stroke single-cylinder engine. The tuned engine never lags, and acceleration becomes a different experience: going beyond 70 km/h (in the highest stage) gives a greater sense of freedom and lets you fully exploit the chassis.
The ride becomes more engaging not just due to added power, but also thanks to improved smoothness and control. Braking becomes more precise thanks to a more efficient transmission, and handling turns playful ,encouraging you to explore the most fun lines. If the stock version is a loyal travel companion, Polini’s version is set for adventures; always ready to thrill and brighten your day.
In short, with Polini’s tuning, the Aprilia SXR 50 stops being just a means of transport and becomes a source of daily joy.
For more information, or to order any of the components mentioned above, send our sales team a message at info@rondaleyscooters.co.uk or give them a call on: 01226 203377
