Maxi-scooter guide: 250–400 cc compared (2026)

The moment you feel a 125 scooter is not enough usually comes on a ring road or an intercity trip: the power runs out when you overtake, the wind tires you, and the rear suspension struggles when a passenger gets on. This is where the maxi-scooter class comes in. These models between 250 and 400 cc combine the ease of an automatic transmission, large under-seat storage and wind protection with enough power to travel comfortably on the motorway. In this guide we split the class into price bands and compare them with data from the Pusulamoto catalogue.

Who is a maxi-scooter for?

• Riders who cover more than 30 km a day and use ring roads and motorways.
• Those who travel regularly with a passenger.
• Those who do not want to deal with a geared bike but need more than a 125.
• Those who do short weekend tours and commute during the week.

All the models in this class are in the A2 class in the catalogue. They cannot be ridden on a B licence or an A1. We explained the licence process in the motorcycle licence guide.

Why does the 250 cc limit matter?

When buying a maxi-scooter, pay attention to the 250 cc line. Two cost items change at this limit:

• Special consumption tax (ÖTV): According to secondary sources, the ÖTV rate is 8% on motorcycles of 250 cc and below, and 37% above 250 cc. This difference is reflected directly in list prices. No official confirmation was found for 2026, but market prices look consistent with this structure.
• Annual motor vehicle tax (MTV): In the 2026 tariff, for a motorcycle aged 1–3 years it is 1,069 TL a year in the 100–250 cc bracket and 2,214 TL in the 251–650 cc bracket.

For example, the Honda Forza 250 is in the lower bracket at 244 cc, while the Yamaha XMAX 300 Tech MAX is in the upper bracket at 292 cc. Although they look like they are in the same class, the difference in price and annual tax is marked.

Budget-friendly maxi-scooters: 200–360 thousand TL

The RKS Precio 250 Max (202,950 TL (October 2026 list price)) and Peugeot Motocycles PM-02 250 (219,900 TL (October 2026 list price)) are the cheapest ways into the maxi-scooter class; both have around 25 hp and ABS. The Voge SR3 is among the lighter ones in this group at 165 kg and low with its 770 mm seat; 244,900 TL (October 2026 list price). On the SYM side, the SYM Joymax Z 250 is bigger and comfort-oriented at 190 kg, while the SYM Joyride 300 and SYM ADX 300 offer a little more power than the 250s with their 300 cc engines. The SYM prices date from February 2026; confirm the current price with the dealer.

The class benchmarks: Forza, XMAX, ADV

The Honda Forza 250 (385,750 TL (October 2026 list price)) and Yamaha XMAX 250 (397,000 TL (October 2026 list price)) are the two best-known models in this class. Their power (22.8 and 22.5 hp) and consumption (3.1 L/100 km) are almost the same; the weight and tank differences are small. The decision usually comes down to design, equipment and dealer service. You can see the two side by side on the Honda Forza 250 vs Yamaha XMAX 250 comparison page.

If you want more power, the Yamaha XMAX 300 Tech MAX is a step up at 27.6 hp; but because it is over 250 cc it costs 627,500 TL (October 2026 list price). If you want a slightly higher riding position and a build that copes with rough roads, the Honda ADV350 (with top box) (575,250 TL (October 2026 list price)) is an adventure-flavoured alternative.

350–400 cc: long-distance comfort

If you often make intercity trips, the 350–400 cc class offers the highest comfort. The Piaggio Beverly 400, with 34.9 hp and a big-wheeled build, is 459,000 TL (October 2026 list price). The Aprilia SR GT 400 is the most powerful in this table with 36 hp, at 499,000 TL (October 2026 list price). The Voge SR4 is in a similar price band with 349 cc. The Suzuki Burgman 400 is heavier at 218 kg but focused on comfort and wind protection; with its 755 mm seat it is among the lowest. The Peugeot Motocycles XP 400 Allure SUV, with 231 kg and a 13.5-litre tank, appeals to those who will carry a passenger over long distances.

Selection criteria

• Weight: There is a serious difference between 165 kg and 230 kg. A heavy model tires you when parking and manoeuvring; for mainly city use, choose a light model.
• Under-seat storage: A full-face helmet fits in most maxi-scooters, but it varies from model to model. Try it with your own helmet.
• Wind protection: An adjustable windscreen makes a big difference on long trips.
• Passenger comfort: Look at the passenger grab handles, the width of the rear seat and the passenger footpegs.
• Service: Variator and belt maintenance is needed regularly on scooters; having a service centre nearby matters.

Equipment and accessories

The accessory maxi-scooter users need most is a top case. Look at the hard case options, and if you will ride in winter, at handlebar muffs and heated gear. For safety at motorway speeds, a full-face or modular helmet and a protective jacket are essential.

Conclusion

In choosing a maxi-scooter, the first decision is the 250 cc line: those that stay below it, the Forza 250, XMAX 250, Voge SR3 and PM-02 250, are both more affordably priced and have lower MTV. If you want more power and long-distance comfort, the XMAX 300, Beverly 400 and SR GT 400 in the 300–400 cc class stand out. Work out the annual total cost in the cost calculator, compare the options in the A2 maxi-scooter, cheapest maxi-scooter and maxi-scooters under 500 thousand TL lists, or use the motorcycle finder.

Frequently asked questions

Which licence is needed for a maxi-scooter?

All the 250–400 cc models in this guide are in the A2 class in the catalogue. They cannot be ridden on a B licence or an A1.

Forza 250 or XMAX 250?

Power, consumption and weight are almost the same. On the October 2026 list prices the Forza 250 is somewhat cheaper; the decision comes down to design and equipment.

Can you take a maxi-scooter on the motorway?

Yes. The models in this class are in the motorcycle (L3) category; the motorcycle speed limit on the motorway is 100 km/h.

Why is there such a price gap between 250 cc and 300 cc?

Largely because of the tax structure. On motorcycles above 250 cc the ÖTV rate is much higher; the MTV also moves up to the next bracket.