The SH150i does just that, despite vital statistics that don't set the heart racing.
The single-cylinder 153cc engine produces a paltry 11kW and 14Nm. I have household appliances that generate a better output.
The SH150 is more than just the sum of its numbers though. The fuel-injected engine isn't going to rip strips off the tarmac, but it will get along at a decent clip in city traffic.
That's good, but no different to hundreds of other scooters on the road. What makes it stand out from the crowd are the 16-inch alloy wheels. They're huge for a scooter, especially one as small as this. They also contribute to great road manners. The Honda will tip as far as you dare, albeit at a moderate pace.
It also handles ruts and potholes with far more poise than a 12-inched scooter, and that's an important consideration when it's your backside on the line.
This is urban transport but can handle occasional trips on the freeways and ring roads.
The SH150 is a competent performer at these speeds. What passes for hills can be taken at a steady 100km/h.
It would have struggled to pull 105km/h on some of those inclines and 110km/h is about the limit, but it steadily winds itself up to those speeds at a pace that won't have you looking over your shoulder for traffic bearing down on you.
It's the same joy around town, with the continuously variable transmission providing fine takeoff from the lights.
The fuel tank's a tiny 7.5 litres, but that was still good for 200km with the right grip usually wound out to the stops. That's pretty good when you consider the performance and price ... $5690 for a vehicle that will happily commute from a long way out.
Pick up a passenger and you pay a penalty, but two-up on 80km/h roads is a breeze.
The brakes are up to the task, with Honda's combined braking system effective at slowing things down.
The styling turns heads and you'll happily sit on it for 50km jaunts.
Longer trips aren't out of the question, providing you factor in a few rest stops.
Inside view
Price: $5690
Engine: 153cc four-stroke single-cylinder
Power: 11.6kW at 8500 revs
Torque: 14Nm at 7000 revs
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel tank: 7.5 litres
Seat height: 790mm
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