As someone who's been reviewing motorcycles for over a decade, I've seen countless models come and go, but the SYM Sport Bonus SR caught my attention for several reasons. When I first laid eyes on this scooter at the dealership, I immediately noticed its aggressive styling that sets it apart from the typical commuter bikes in its class. The sharp lines and sporty accents give it a premium feel that you wouldn't expect from a 125cc scooter. Having test-ridden it for two weeks through city traffic and some winding roads, I can confidently say this machine offers more than just good looks.
The heart of the Sport Bonus SR is its 125cc single-cylinder engine that produces about 11 horsepower. Now, that might not sound like much, but in real-world riding conditions, it's surprisingly peppy. During my testing, I found the acceleration from 0-60 km/h to be quite brisk, taking approximately 6 seconds. The CVT transmission delivers smooth power delivery, making it perfect for stop-and-go traffic. What impressed me most was the fuel efficiency - I consistently got around 55 km/liter during mixed riding conditions. That's significantly better than many competitors in this segment. The underseat storage is another highlight, offering 28 liters of space, which easily swallowed my full-face helmet with room to spare for a jacket and some groceries.
Riding through Manila's chaotic streets revealed the Sport Bonus SR's true strengths. The suspension setup - telescopic forks upfront and dual shock absorbers at the rear - handled our notorious road imperfections better than I expected. There were moments when I deliberately took rougher routes just to test its composure, and it never felt unsettled. The braking system, with its 220mm front disc and 190mm rear drum, provided adequate stopping power, though I would have preferred a rear disc option for more confident braking in wet conditions. The 12-inch wheels contribute to stable handling, and the 130mm ground clearance ensures you won't scrape the underside on speed bumps, which is a common issue with some scooters.
Now, let me share why I think this scooter deserves serious consideration despite some shortcomings. The analog-digital instrument cluster is basic but functional, showing all essential information clearly. However, I found the lack of connectivity features disappointing in today's market where even entry-level scooters are getting Bluetooth connectivity. The seat comfort is above average - I did a 3-hour continuous ride and didn't feel fatigued, which is rare in this category. The riding position is neutral and comfortable for riders of different heights, though taller riders might find the legroom a bit cramped during longer journeys.
Comparing it to competitors like the Honda Beat and Yamaha Mio, the Sport Bonus SR holds its own with better suspension and storage space, though it falls slightly short in brand recognition and resale value. From my experience, SYM has been improving their quality consistently over the years, and the fit-and-finish on this model reflects that progress. The paint quality and panel gaps are consistent, and after 500 kilometers of testing, I didn't notice any rattles or loose components. Maintenance costs are reasonable too - the first three services cost me around ₱1,200 each at authorized service centers.
So, is the SYM Sport Bonus SR worth buying? In my professional opinion, absolutely yes if you're looking for a reliable daily commuter that offers more character than the usual Japanese offerings. It strikes a good balance between performance, practicality, and style. While it may not have the brand cachet of its Japanese rivals, it makes up for it with better specifications in key areas and competitive pricing. For urban riders who want something that stands out from the crowd while delivering solid performance, the Sport Bonus SR deserves a spot on your test ride list. Just be prepared to explain to friends what SYM stands for - though after experiencing its capabilities, you'll have plenty of positive things to say.