Gilera's hybrid scooter - DNA

By SARA TEMPLETON

With the scooter scene explosion still running hot in both Australia and overseas, we are starting to see some more interesting designs hit the market.

These slightly 'different' models have one aim - to capture a market share that desires a two-wheeler, but neither a scoot or a motorbike. Gilera has catered to this demographic with the aptly named DNA, a 50cc scooter hybrid.

The media blurb reads "A genetically modified scooter" and this isn't far from the truth.

As you can surmise from the photos, it's a small scooter with no foot recess - the most distinguishable trait of any scoot.

Rather, the seat is moved forward, the recess is gone and the result is quite pleasing, though not everyone will think so.

I know people who think it's an abomination and other's have gone on record as saying it's the perfect balance between scooter and motorbike. Either way, it's here to stay and will surely be a stepping stone for other, more creative, hybrid scoots.

Sitting on 14-inch wheels front and rear, the Gilera DNA comes with a rather comprehensive braking package with disc brakes all round. It has a nine-litre fuel tank (unleaded fuel) and weighs a diminuitve 100kg, meaning fuel consumption is ridiculously effecient. Great news for those who are sick of paying through the nose for over-taxed petrol.

The suspension consists of hydraulic forks up front and a single shock-absorber for the rear with an adjustable spring. The engine is a 49.4 cc 2 stroke powerplant, which is catalysed at two stages with a neat secondary air system. With a seat height of only 770mm, everybody will be able to give it a burl.

There is an electric start, but just in case the battery runs low there is also a kick-starter. Gilera really has all bases covered with the intriguing DNA - it just depends on whether the design suits you, really. There is a large compartment for a standard-sized helmet and it has an automatic gearbox, like most scooters, so all you do is twist and go!