Buzz
More than 3 years since its debut in the local market, the mainstream FreeGo scooter has recently been introduced by Yamaha Vietnam with a new version featuring some adjustments to its appearance. We still get those values, but now, the top-end version with ABS brakes is more accessible, starting from 33.3 million VND. After a short period experiencing this 2022 FreeGo version, here are some of my insights about this bike.
Design and Craftsmanship
Yamaha FreeGo is a bike with a harmonious design, not overly flashy. With this neutral design, the bike will appeal to a wide range of users, not just men but also stylish women.
Its compact design and wet weight of 102 kg, along with a seat height of 780 mm, are suitable for the average physique of Vietnamese riders. Getting on and off the bike, maneuvering through narrow alleys, becomes easier and more straightforward.
Compared to the previous version, the FreeGo 2022 has undergone changes in its decals, making it simpler yet still eye-catching. The bike still stands out with raised details on the body, creating a sporty vibe. Craftsmanship is also something I highly appreciate about the 2022 FreeGo.
Despite being a mainstream scooter with a plastic body, similar to other scooters in its price range, the details of the bike are well-finished, not giving a cheap feel. Accessible areas during usage such as buttons, fuel cap,... are sturdy and do not feel loose or misaligned like some other models.Convenience Features
The FreeGo features a Stop & Start System, Smart Key. The temporary engine shut-off system makes stopping at red lights smoother, without engine noise, while also contributing to fuel savings. The operation of the Stop & Start System impresses me. When the bike has been running for a while, the A light indicates the system is activated. When stopping at a red light, for example, the engine smoothly shuts off gradually. Then, when the light turns green, a gentle twist of the throttle restarts the engine smoothly instead of producing loud noises and vibrations like some other temporary engine shut-off systems in other bikes.
The Smart Key ensures the safety of the car, eliminating the fear of theft by breaking the lock, and provides more convenience in usage. Moreover, finding the car in the parking lot becomes much easier. Despite residing in a rather small and uncomplicated apartment building, I have a habit of forgetting where I parked. Every day, I waste time searching for my car because it lacks such an intelligent key system.
The car's headlights utilize LED technology, emitting a modern white light. The illumination range of the headlights is quite broad, providing adequate visibility for night driving, especially beneficial on unlit roads or highways. However, the brightness intensity of the headlights is not exceptionally high. To optimize brightness, one might consider upgrading to additional auxiliary lights.
Nevertheless, one feature that I find satisfactory is the presence of a button to turn off the headlights. Some parking lots still require manually turning off the lights, so the absence of a headlight switch forces me to shut down the entire electrical system of the car. Moreover, navigating through alleys, which are abundant in Saigon, where vendors often occupy the streets or residents gather outside their homes, having the ability to proactively turn off the lights alleviates my unease. Additionally, the car's Demi light system is sufficient to draw attention when maneuvering through narrow alleys.
The 12V phone charging port enables high-power phone charging, convenient when necessary. Although initially inconvenient to have a cigarette lighter-style charging port, requiring an additional adapter, on the flip side, it allows proactive accessory selection to optimize charging power.
The fuel tank cap is located under the front end of the motorcycle, just above the footrest, making it convenient for the rider to use without leaving the seat. The fuel tank cap opens easily with a push button. This is also one of the aspects of using the motorcycle that I really appreciate.
The spacious storage compartment with a capacity of 25 liters can accommodate 2 half-face helmets along with many other items. Moreover, on rainy days like this, I can easily fit my bag inside when commuting to work, ensuring that my tech gadgets or personal belongings remain dry.Safety Features
The 2022 FreeGo is equipped with a single front disc brake, and notably, features anti-lock braking system (ABS) technology. This is a highly regarded safety feature, and it can be said that the FreeGo is one of the most accessible models with ABS in terms of pricing. In fact, Yamaha is the first manufacturer to equip ABS for scooters in the mainstream market. ABS, in my opinion, is an essential safety feature.The scooter is equipped with large-size tires for both front and rear wheels, optimizing road grip, especially when cornering. The tires are puncture-resistant, allowing continued riding to the nearest repair shop if a puncture occurs.Real-world Performance
The FreeGo features a Blue Core 125cc engine with a maximum power output of 9.4 horsepower at 8,000 revolutions per minute, and a peak torque of 9.5 Nm at 5,500 revolutions per minute. It is equipped with a Smart Motor Generator that ensures smooth starting and minimizes noise.Operating Experience: In reality, the scooter exhibits a smooth tendency, gradually accelerating when the throttle is applied without excessive jerking. Compared to another sibling of the FreeGo, the Mio 125, the Mio tends to have a stronger initial acceleration, while the FreeGo feels lighter. In the speed range of 50-60 km/h, the scooter feels stable, thanks to its compact design. At this speed, the handling and performance remain confident, with the wheels providing excellent grip on the road surface.
The suspension system tends to be firm, yet when traversing speed bumps or road irregularities, the handlebars remain smooth without excessive wobbling. Despite the single spring rear shock absorber, stability is maintained even when carrying a passenger. The riding experience is comfortable and confident. One issue I've encountered, which I'll share with fellow riders, is that during rapid acceleration, throttling the gas results in a considerable engine roar, causing discomfort and fuel wastage.Once a certain speed is reached and the throttle is held steady, this noise disappears. The downside is that this noise may bother more particular users like myself. However, the upside is that eliminating this engine roar can be achieved by gradually increasing speed, contributing to fuel efficiency.
Regarding safety, the brakes, both front and rear, operate effectively and meet my needs. The front disc brake system with ABS allows confident braking in emergency situations without any feeling of wheel slip. ABS truly instills confidence while riding, especially during the transition of Saigon into the rainy season, where roads are often wet and slippery.
Speaking of fuel consumption, the energy label on the scooter indicates a consumption rate of 2.03 liters per 100 kilometers. During my usage, I conducted a quick fuel consumption test. I filled the tank, reset the trip meter, traveled 100 kilometers, and then refilled the tank, requiring an additional 2.6 liters. It's worth noting that during this 100 kilometers, about two-thirds of the distance involved carrying a passenger, and my driving habits were not particularly steady. Therefore, I believe the scooter's fuel consumption could be much better and could achieve Yamaha's stated figures, or even better.
Overall, the 2022 FreeGo provides a smooth riding experience for me, with stable performance at average speeds and good acceleration for overtaking other vehicles on the road. The sturdy frame structure combined with its compact size allows me to navigate easily and truly enjoy each twist of the throttle, urging me onto the road every day with this scooter. As someone who enjoys riding, the FreeGo has become quite an interesting companion for me over the past week.
With what it offers, despite still having a few minor qualms, in my opinion, the FreeGo remains a model with excellent performance/price ratio in the current market. It provides flexible handling, excellent fuel efficiency, and sufficient convenience and safety features for daily use.
