Much to my surprise during our 50cc scooter compare (LIEN), the XF50 C3, affectionately known as the Cube, proved to be just as quick as and far more practical than the best-selling 50cc scooter on the market, the Yamaha BWs 50. I had been looking to sample this unorthodox baby for quite some time, as it promised greater value than its more popular stable mate.

OK, Pascal may not be the most solidly built amongst our test riders, but there sure is a lot of space on a C3 for any size of rider. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Moto123.com)

In terms of styling, the XF50 C3 does look a little unusual, kind of like a tool or bread box on wheels. And of course, it lacks that second headlight that marks the BWs. In fact, that’s what makes it stand out, though. You either like the design or you don’t; most of our test riders in Moto123’s 50cc scooter comparo gave the quirky Yamaha an Average to Good rating.

The XF50 C3 turns as many heads on the road as the successful BWs a.k.a the "Rolling frog." For 2010, only two colour schemes are available: Black with red seat, and Kaki Green with black seat - I preferred the former.

On the C3, the liquid-cooled four stroke 49cc engine produces 3.8 hp (10-percent more than the BWs two-stroker). The CVT (Continuously-variable transmission) delivers smooth takeoffs, on the way to an adequate top speed, given the very limited power output.re smooth and the extra juice translates into a higher top speed. The electric starter teams up with a backup kick starter for total dependability. Another handy feature is the locking fuel cap located on the floorboard, under a small easy access panel, eliminating the need to flip up the seat to refuel.

The C3’s long wheelbase yields an extended flat seat as well as excellent legroom and move-around room. It arguably looks and feels like a cruiser, with a nice, ergonomic handlebar and easy access to the various controls. The instrument panel is limited to a speedometer, a trip meter and a fuel gauge, completed by idiot lights for the high beam, turn signals and coolant temperature.

With regard to storage capacity, the Yamaha XF50 C3 proves to be the all-time accommodation champion, or close to it. You can easily load a backpack, a laptop case or grocery bags but, unfortunately, not a helmet. After all, it is a Cube. Still on the plus side, the company’s ChatterBox! XBi Bluetooth Intercom Helmet Headset with MP3 capability will meet the needs of today’s scooter buyers.

The easy-to-read dash does include a little plus for the rider: a fuel gauge to help plan your weekly gas stops. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Moto123.com)

The effective C3 suspension uses a 120mm tire at the back rather than the stouter looking 130 from the BWs, and features an obsolete drum/drum brake combination, resulting in stable but ultimately below-par braking. Come on, Yamaha: it’s about time you switch to a front disc brake!

Room and lots of it, but unfortunately not enough for a Full-Face helmet. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Moto123.com)

On the road, the C3 displays great agility and comfort thanks to a pair of oversized tires. Neutral handling and balance allow easy manœuvres through traffic, while the high-mounted mirrors help reduce blind spots. I particularly liked the comfy seat and the ability to slide my butt along the generous surface. If you ask me, a normal-sized passenger (Smaller than our bulky Moto123 editor!) can comfortably sit behind the rider.

Undercutting the BWs by $300, the 2010 Yamaha XF50 C Cubed (or C3 or Cube or whatever you want to call it) really brings an interesting proposition to the table. Granted, not everyone will love the styling, but I can take my significant other for a ride and store our backpacks under the seat.

Score one for the underdog.

Plus
Storage capacity
Space and saddle comfort
Adequate performance

Less
Borderline braking
Looks funny to some