Sales of smaller capacity two-wheelers continue to do well in the topsy turvy times we all find ourselves still living in more than a year down the line since the first lockdown began.
Changes to the way we work, how we use public transport and just the way we live our lives now have all contributed.
Last month, sales of 0-50cc bikes were up 45% on March 2020 and of 50-125cc up by 10%, according to the Motorcycle Industry Association.
Scooter sales were up a whopping 26% month-on-month, with 2,578 units sold in March this year.
Interestingly, almost half of bikes up to 50cc or 4Kw that were sold last month were electric.
In the next band, however, (50-125cc or 4-11Kw), of the 3,225 units sold, just 22 were battery-powered.
To a large extent, this must be down to price.
Electric scooters can be three of even four times as much to buy new.
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Of course, once purchased, the running costs on electric vehicles are much lower.
But for 17 year olds, and for many adults in these difficult times, the initial outlay can be the deciding factor.
Step up the SX 125 produced by WK Bikes.
At just £1,799, this is one of the best-value 125cc scooters on the market.
WK may not be a name familiar to many, but the bikes have actually been on the UK market for some 20 years.
There’s a good number of dealers around the country and the bikes, produced in China, come with a two-year parts and labour warranty.
In its bright livery – either blue or orange – the SX 125 certainly stands out with a sporty look.
Onboard, at 5ft 11in and with longish legs, I did find it a little cramped, although I suspect the low seat height might be seen as an advantage by some smaller riders.
The dash is impressive for something in this price range – a good size, clear and easy to read, and including a fuel gauge.
The SX features 14in black alloy wheels, linked disc brakes, with steel-braided brake lines, and twin rear shocks.
It has twin headlights, and LED indicators and rear light.
There’s a small luggage rack and lockable underseat storage, although not big enough for my full-face helmet.
There’s push-button start, but also, interestingly, a kick-start, and, of course, it’s twist-and-go.
Acceleration is a bit underwhelming, but that’s not what this scoot is about.
Rather, it’s for youngsters getting their first sense of independence with a powered two-wheeler, for short-journey commuters or for those who are now working from home and just want to pop into town.
For those uses, it’s perfect – especially with a fuel economy of more than 100mpg.
Overall, a nifty little scooter at a great price.
Browse more than 19,000 new and used bikes for sale at Autotrader.co.uk/bikes
