Yamaha Fascino: First Ride Review

How does it ride?

The riding dynamics of the Yamaha Fascino are quite similar to Ray and the Ray-Z. This is not very surprising, as all three scooters share most of their mechanical bits, including the engine, frame, suspension and the brakes. The 113cc single-cylinder engine delivers 7bhp and 8Nm of torque through a CVT transmission, which makes the Fascino one of the least powerful scooters in India. Nevertheless, it feels very refined and has a strong mid-range that pulls cleanly till an indicated 80kmph. The suspension setup in the Fascino comprises of telescopic forks at the front and an offset unit swing rear suspension in the rear. Braking for both wheels is taken care off by 130mm drum brakes.

The Yamaha Fascino feels light and nimble, and is quite adept at cutting through traffic. The suspension is on the firmer side, which gives the Fascino a planted feel at high speeds and while taking corners. However, the front suspension doesn’t respond well to broken roads, as most of the shocks are transferred directly to your wrists. The handlebar also tends to shudder every time you ride over bumps and potholes, and even under hard front braking. The Fascino doesn’t score high in pillion comfort either. Despite having a comfortable seat, the bouncy rear suspension tends to wear out the back and the thighs of the rear seat passenger during long rides.

Anything else I should know?

The Yamaha Fascino takes a divided approach to the styling. While the front looks smooth and elegant in true retro style, the rest of the body gets a curvy and flowing design hinting at a modern approach. This contemporary touch in the Fascino’s styling brings out the best of both worlds. The seats are large and roomy, and offer good comfort for the rider and the pillion (marred only by the weak suspension). The shallow underseat storage is spacious enough to fit your raincoat, scooter’s papers and a bunch of other small stuff, though it cannot accommodate a full face helmet. The floorboard has enough room to fit big backpacks, but then you would have to compromise on leg space there. For the ones that cannot do without their cellphones, the small and deep cubbyhole near the ignition slot works as a handy pouch. The Fascino gets a minimalistic instrument cluster which integrates gets a speedometer, fuel gauge and an odometer. The fit and finish of the panels and the switchgear is befitting a premium scooter.

Why should I buy one?

The host of appealing paint schemes, retro styling with just the right amount of chrome, and the lucrative price tag make the Yamaha Fascino a very desirable vehicle. The Fascino is offered in five trendy paint schemes (this sassy cyan colour is my personal favourite). Yamaha has taken a smart approach by giving the Fascino a 113cc heart. This might have affected the scooter’s performance, but it has also helped the Japanese manufacturer outdo Vespa when it comes to one the most crucial aspects - pricing. At Rs 52,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Fascino is the perfect vehicle for someone looking for a budget lifestyle scooter.

Where does it fit in?

Given the way it has been designed, the Yamaha Fascino seems like a direct rival to the entry-level Vespa – the Vespa LX. However, considering the significant disparity in price and the engine capacity, the Fascino actually sits a level lower than the Vespa LX. Despite this, the Fascino doesn’t lag when it comes to offering a retro feel with a premium package, at a very lucrative price. This in itself is a plausible explanation for the Fascino’s success in the Indian market.