Scooter Review Derbi GP1 250 The Derbi GP1 250 states its claim as a true sports middleweight. We find out if the Derbi lives up to expectations.
Allen Drysdale 
Introduction
Derbi Australia has taken a simple approach since its relaunch onto the Australian scooter scene. The Spanish brand has introduced a selection of models contending across a range of capacities. There is though one scooter in the Derbi range that does stand well and truly on its own, its something different and just that little bit special. I am talking about the Derbi GP1 250.
The GP1 250 is the only option if your after a truly dedicated mid capacity sports scooter. Does it all make sense? We find out.....
Features
Next item, the brakes. Radial mounted callipers on a scooter? You bet.... and a huge disc front and back. A massive 245 mm disc on the front with 4 pot calliper, combined with a 220 mm disc on the rear. Suspension up front is again impressive, 35 mm upside down forks. On the back we have the only thing remotely reflecting a scooter with twin adjustable shock absorbers.
Clip on handlebars make for a true sportsbike feel and the seat at 800 mm high makes for a pretty sporty riding position. The dash up front is again giving you every indication your on something dedicated to going fast. The large tacho sits front and centre whilst speed, fuel and temp are all in a digital format. The digital section on the speedo has a number of different mode functions operated via a button that is mounted on the dash.
Two halogen headlights dominate the front end for styling and the rear just looks oh so sexy. Very GSX-R Suzuki when your looking from behind. At the front we also have a central run light, I reckon this just helps with the style.
Under the seat we have a fair amount of storage that will easily account for your full face helmet. The fuel filler is also found here and in true sports fashion the 11 litre fuel tank is central and low to the ground, helping with weight distribution. Other storage features include two nice pockets either side up front, just for loose change, or a mobile phone. A small lockable glovebox also helps.
The motor bolts directly onto the alloy frame and its none other then Piaggio's Quasar 250 cc unit. Its a corker and has always been a favourite of mine. Well documented, this is one of the best engines in the business.
Wheel size has been chosen carefully. 14 inch at the front with a wide profile 140/60 - 13 wheel/tyre combination on the rear. I should mention Continental Twist rubber is standard. When your talking premium sports only the best will do of course. The black painted spoked alloy wheels look the business.
On the road
Your seated high and a little downward facing on the GP1 250. Its not sportsbike over, but you notice the position as soon as you throw your leg over the frame. You get onto the GP1 just as you would any motorcycle, again by throwing a leg over. The clip on style handlebars are close together so your in a really tight compact position, your race ready.
Acceleration is brisk, the Quasar engine moves the GP1 quickly from standstill, and it just keeps on going. In true European style the GP1 has some character built in as you feel vibes coming through the frame and up to the handlebars. I love this about the GP1, its truly unique.
I only got to experience the GP1 around the city but you do get the impression that this is a scooter that just wants to stretch its legs. If your after a scooter that could also replace the thrill of a motorcycle then this is the one. Commuting Monday to Friday and then letting loose on the weekend, the GP1 can cater for both roles. An approximate 145 km/h top speed shouldn't be out of the question.
The GP1 would leave many 250 cc bikes gasping on the side of the road as it powers ahead, its just so quick under 100 km/h. Partly because of the low centralised weight and partly because the engine and transmission package just works a treat, its a match made in heaven.
Ride quality is firm, just as you'd expect. What will impress though is the change in direction and the feedback in which the GP1 communicates to the rider. Its immediate, quick and combined with that willing engine, the GP1 just becomes point and shoot. It takes a while to get accustomed to the accuracy of which you can dial into this machine and it really is a corning weapon, helped I am sure by the 14 inch front wheel and upside down forks. The Continental Twist tyres really are the benchmark when it comes to rubber, awesome grip and feel.
The brakes are a nice to have, your spoilt when it comes to pulling up. The 4 pot radial mounted calliper on the front is incredibly powerful and will pull the GP1 up on its nose. The rear brake is even more surprising having the power to lock the rear on demand.
With all this premium gear it must be said that you quickly get into the sporting spirit once aboard the GP1. The large central tacho that spins up as you twist the throttle, the tight compact riding position, the vibration that you feel through the handlebars. Its all very individual and dare I say memorable.
 
Conclusion
The reason you would even be considering a GP1 250 is that you like your machines sporty. The styling leaves no questions to the intentions behind the GP1 250. The sum of premium parts quickly states a case for true sporting prowess.
The only link between scooter and motorcycle is that you have an automatic transmission. Derbi has made the rest feel and perform just like a dedicated sports motorcycle. Just with a hint of European individuality thrown in.
The GP1 will fulfil your sporting desires whilst still giving you a few of the features which make scooters a pleasure to live with day to day. A bit of a Jekyll and Hide scooter really, works hard during the week and gets all naughty on the weekends. Nice one Derbi.
http://www.derbi.com.au/GP1.html
published 7/04/2010 |