The Nexus episode: Lexmoto's L-plate friendly scooter costs under £3250

Wallet-friendly small capacity bike firm Lexmoto have revealed their latest learner-legal scooter model – the £3249.99 Nexus, featuring a colour TFT dash, keyless ignition and more.

Starting in the middle, the twist-and-go urban explorer is powered by a liquid-cooled single cylinder producing a modest 13.8bhp and claimed to be capable of 69mph.

Fed by a 12-litre fuel tank, the DOHC four-stroke unit drives power to the rear wheel using a belt – meaning no greasy chains to maintain – and features an electric start with keyless ignition.  

The engine is shrouded in a set of modern plastics, which bears more than a passing resemblance to the high-end A2-friendly BMW C400X. Similarities include the raised front screen, and right side exiting exhaust, with the affordable Lexmoto also featuring under seat storage billed as being large enough for a full face -helmet plus a few smaller bits of kit.

Practicality is boosted further thanks to twin front pockets which sit just below the handlebar controls on either side and within easy reach of the rider. Sticking up front, there’s a colour 7in TFT dash, displaying a centralised speed reading flanked by revs and other useful information such as temperature, fuel gauge, trip meter, odometer, and more.   

Away from the tech, the Nexus tips the scales at a slightly chunky 185kg in riding order, making it 14kg heavier than a £5149 Honda Forza 125, and 18kg more than Yamaha’s £5352 XMAX 125. Both cost around double the price of the Lexmoto but offer a more comprehensive dealer, parts, and servicing network. They should hold their value better, too.

Moving away from the rivals, the Lexmoto boasts an accessible seat height of 760mm and has provision for carrying a pillion should the rider so wish (and have the necessary motorcycle licence).

It’s suspended by non-adjustable 37mm front forks, and a pair of twin shocks. These meet a 14in front and 13in rear rim shod with 120- and 130-section tyres respectively.

Braking power comes courtesy of a single 260mm front disc and 220mm rear rotor. There is no ABS but the brakes are linked in order for the scooter to meet the latest Euro5 regulations.

Lexmoto Nexus in detail

• Take the long way round: A 1600mm wheelbase makes the Nexus 25mm longer than a 562cc Yamaha TMAX, and could make slow manoeuvres a little awkward.
• Fobbed off: The Nexus features keyless fob and central unit to switch the bike on and off, as well as lock the steering. It can also be operated with a traditional key, if needed.
• Scoot built for two: The passenger footrests fold away when not required, with the large wide double seat and 335kg load capacity giving room for two.
• All about value: The Nexus will only be available in either black or grey at a price of £3249.99 plus OTR costs.
• Well protected: The Nexus features a two-year parts and labour warranty and can be yours for £78.79 over three years after a £1000 deposit.