Voge SR3 review: how the scooter that comes with a navigation system, ABS, and traction control performs

Scooters are the motorcycle style of choice for those seeking comfort, agility, and low maintenance. They represent just 5% of motorcycle registrations in Argentina, where the most popular are Cubs (the classic 110cc models), followed by the street and on-off segments. But in large cities like Buenos Aires, scooters are becoming more common.

This year, Voge introduced the quarter-liter SR3 model, the smallest in its family. Compared to its rivals from other brands, it stands out for its good level of equipment and performance at a competitive price.

It's the younger brother of the SR4, a 350cc maxi scooter that was already on the market since the middle of last year, and with which it shares many aesthetic features, both in terms of design and controls and the screen.

With the launch of this smaller model, Voge is targeting a younger audience looking for a sophisticated alternative for getting around.

We had the opportunity to test drive an SR3 for a week, not only in the city, but also outside its comfort zone, traveling to San Pedro, 170 kilometers from Buenos Aires.

At first glance, we find a motorcycle that looks larger than it is. In fact, visually, there isn't that much difference in size compared to the SR4. It feels high-quality, with a modern, aerodynamic design.

Under the seat is a large trunk that can hold a helmet, a backpack , and more. Another interesting detail is the two front glove compartments with magnetic closure, very practical for storing sunglasses or money for tolls. The downside is that they have to be emptied if we park on the street, as they don't have a lock.

The seat is wide, firm, and comfortable. It doesn't cause fatigue after prolonged riding.

The SR3 comes equipped with a keyless entry system and a 7-inch display with a wealth of information, including speed, RPM, fuel level, tire pressure, and engine temperature. It also includes fuel consumption data, but lacks a range indicator. The display can be set to Sport mode with a different information layout, prioritizing speed and rpm.

One of the new features is the navigator . It works through an app that you download on your phone and connect via Bluetooth. It uses maps from the company Mapbox and provides real-time traffic information.

It is a fairly simple tool that is used to receive turn-by-turn directions on the road directly on the dashboard.

Another outstanding feature of this scooter's equipment is its heated grips , which set it apart in the segment. They can be configured in three settings and are a game-changer when you have to hit the streets on cold winter mornings.

The height-adjustable windshield and well-designed fairing complete the package, reducing the effect of wind on the body. This is one of the reasons why scooter users choose them, in addition to the perception of greater safety that comes from having their legs tucked away behind the fairing.

The 244.3 cc engine delivers 25.5 hp at 8,000 rpm and 23 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm , good numbers for its size and type. It's very fast in the city and cruises comfortably on the highway at 110 km/h (68 mph), with plenty of throttle and good response at high revs for overtaking.

The CVT transmission provides a very smooth ride at various revs. All this results in an average fuel consumption of 30 kilometers per liter (18.7 miles per gallon) in mixed city-highway use. With a 14-liter tank, the range is 400 kilometers (250 miles) .

In terms of safety, the SR3 comes equipped with traction control (TCS) and ABS brakes , which responded efficiently at all times.

The question sometimes arises as to what the point of having a TCS system is with an engine of this size. In the short time we used this scooter, we were able to test how the traction control works twice: when accelerating after turning a corner with a lot of mud and on a bumpy avenue in Greater Buenos Aires.

For a few seconds, the engine stops sending power to the rear wheel, and the bike stops skidding. This results in more confident riding.

The suspension was optimally set up for city riding and also provided confidence on highways and trails, where the bike handled with great stability. The wheels are alloy, with 14-inch wheels at the front and 13-inch wheels at the rear.

The latest addition to this bike is the front-facing camera that allows you to record videos and take photos of the road. It can be controlled from the handlebars.