Scooter Review Manhattan Maxi 300i A quick ride on the latest addition to the Manhattan Scooter range. Introducing the Manhattan Maxi 300i.
Allen Drysdale 
Introduction
The Maxi 300i is Manhattan's latest entry onto the Australian scooter scene. The Maxi 300i is a long wheelbase addition to complement the range of mid capacity commuters currently available. We take a quick look at what's next for the Manhattan brand.
Specifications
The Maxi 300 is typical of the 300 class. Like most it's not actually a 300, and in the case of the Maxi, it's actually 257 cc in capacity. The single cylinder engine is liquid cooled, fuel injected, with power registering in at 11 Kw in total.
The Maxi 300 scores a long list of standard specifications. We have discs front and rear for starters. Dual rear shock absorbers which are adjustable. The seat takes a two tiered approach and comes with a handy rear passenger backrest. Under the seat we have enough room for a full face helmet and more if required. I like the addition of a single strut that holds up the seat, nice touch. Two gloveboxes help out with storage duties, one lockable by key, the other can be accessed at all times.
The Maxi comes with a handy sized screen which should be good for keeping ones helmet out of the breeze. This follows on from the angular styled headlights up-front, standard European arrangement, one for low beam the other for high.
The dashboard is pretty standard affair, all analogue with gauges for temp, speed and fuel, does have a handy odometer. The mirrors are set on the handlebars, basic and easily replaced in the event of a mishap. Switchgear is also basic, but everything is there and it worked.
Wheels are a 12 inch combination, 110/90 on the front and the very common 130/70 on the rear. A centre stand is available for stationary duties, and a side-stand comes standard. Another notable mention should be the top box ready rack.
On the road
The Manhattan Maxi needs to be placed in the pecking order on the scooter family tree, this is a scooter you would term entry level. Manufactured by Jincheng in China, the Maxi is built with price in mind.
With 11 Kw of power on tap, the Manhattan Maxi 300i is capable of the kinds of speeds we associate with the daily commuting. We saw speeds of up to 100 km/h and I would think once the motor is run-in, you might do this comfortably. The Maxi is smooth in operation and the match of both engine and gearbox seems to work well. Acceleration is fair and enough to keep up with those around you.
The Maxi being a long wheelbase scooter is actually quite comfortable on the road. Easy to ride and easy to manage, thanks to the low seat height and light weight, just 158 Kg. The seating position in relationship to the handlebars does add points for comfort. The Maxi does its best to soak up the bumps and front end weather protection is quite good thanks to the large screen.
We didn't do enough K's on the Maxi to test this out but Manhattan is claiming 2.7L per 100 km fuel usage, meaning the 11 litre tank should last well over 300 Km's. By the way the fuel is located nice and low with the lockable filler cap located at the front of the seat.
The front brake is the one to use and has the most power and feel, with
the rear just being for steadying through corners and keeping the Maxi stationary
at lights. Actually, must comment about the use of the centre stand which was very easy to use, the Maxi just gliding up into position, not the norm for most Chinese built scooters.
Summary
When comparing the Manhattan Maxi 300i you first need to take a look at the retail price, $4990 Ride Away. The modest specification list combines to make it a comfortable commuting option. Additionally Manhattan is offering a 3 Year Unlimited "K" Warranty and 12 months roadside assistance.
So why look at the Manhattan Maxi as viable commuting alternative? Well the Maxi 300i is a long wheelbase scooter with good commuting credentials given the large underseat storage compartment, long rakish screen and comfortable riding position. The engine will do its bit on the fuel front, which should all mean cheap scootering.
The Manhattan Maxi 300 wont be for everyone, but for those looking for an easy to live with commuter it does present well. The value is in the specifications and the 3 year warranty will certainly help with peace of mind.
Manhattan Scooters is a Sydney based importer/retailer based at Homebush. You can find out more by going to www.manhattanscooters.com.au
published 17/05/2011 |