In recent years, many motorcycle manufacturers have competed to make their scooter products with a larger body appearance than most motorcycles in general. For example, the Yamaha NMAX, Honda PCX, and ADV. But the question is why are these large-bodied motorcycles increasingly on the streets, even in narrow alleys? Is this purely a necessity or just a marketing gimmick or maybe a change in lifestyle.
The contagious maxi scooter trend
Initially, scooters were designed with slim and practical bodies. However, since Yamaha released their product, the NMAX, market trends have begun to change. The maxi scooter design, which was previously only popular in Europe, has now begun to penetrate the Asian market and has even become a favorite in several countries. Honda's PCX doesn't want to be left behind. Honda presents a more dashing and premium appearance.
The market changes that are so wide have made scooters with 110 cc also appear with large bodies. This trend then makes some people wonder. Is it really functional or just following the trend to attract attention?
More dashing and premium appearance
Many people think that the exterior appearance of a motorbike reflects social status. A large and dashing body makes a motorbike look more luxurious and "full". Automatic scooters look like big or premium motorbikes even though the engine is still middle class.
This trend shift is also influenced by the amount of content about large-bodied motorbikes. In many social media, motorbikes with large bodies often appear in travel or modification content. This is what ultimately forms the perception that big motorbikes are cooler.
Comfortable and stable impression
Another reason why automatic motorbike bodies are getting bigger is comfort. Motorbikes with large bodies have more spacious seating dimensions with a more relaxed riding position and tend to be stable when used at medium speeds.
But it should be noted, not all motorbikes with large bodies guarantee comfort. Some motorbikes actually feel heavier when used, especially if the motorbike user is small. Large motorbikes are also difficult to use on narrow roads.
More spacious luggage space
The luggage is one of the most frequently raised reasons. This statement is indeed true. Large-bodied motorbikes have more storage space. Full-face helmets, jackets, and even shopping can fit easily. This feature is a special attraction. Especially for those who use motorbikes as multifunctional daily vehicles.
The influence of social media and influencers
As mentioned above, social media and influencers are the reasons or causes for the trend of large-bodied motorbikes to grow rapidly. Many automotive influencers review large-bodied scooters complete with premium accessories and accompanied by a modern urban lifestyle. Without realizing it, many people are finally influenced, buying motorbikes is no longer because of primary needs, but for the sake of image and lifestyle.
Negative Side
Although designed in such a way that it gives a premium impression and remains functional, large-bodied scooters still have a negative side. Not everyone is suitable for using this motorbike. Its heavy weight sometimes makes you sore, especially for beginners and female riders. Not to mention if used on narrow and congested roads, riding a large scooter can feel like carrying a two-door refrigerator. Some users even admit that they regret it because after getting used to a slim scooter, they have to adapt to a large and heavy scooter.
Gimmick or real need?
This is a question that is often debated. Do all scooters need to appear with a large body? For 110-125 cc class motorbikes, many consider the large body to be more towards aesthetics and marketing. The engine remains small, but the appearance is made like a moge.
Is this necessary? The answer is relative and depends on the user. Some people answer that they need a large-bodied scooter because it gives a high sense of confidence. But for some others who focus more on efficiency and practicality, a large body can be a burden.
A global trend
Although this trend has touched many people in many countries, not everyone agrees and is open to this trend. In some western countries, for example, large-bodied motorbikes such as sport motorbikes or cruisers are more dominant. Even large-bodied scooters that are not yet popular have been replaced by electric scooters.
Choose according to your needs
Motorcycles are a matter of preference. If you feel comfortable, like to look stylish, and need a large luggage space, a large-bodied scooter could be an option. But if you have high mobility, often weave through traffic, or are uncomfortable with heavy motorbikes, don't follow the trend.
Remember, a motorbike is a life support tool, not a means of proving status. Whether the body is big or small, the important thing is that it suits your needs.