While Schwinn is a famous brand name, the company was actually sold off to Pacific Cycles in 1991, which is owned by Dorel Industries. That said, the 2011 Schwinn Newport 150 isn't made by the classic brand itself, but is actually developed in Asia. Regardless, they stand by their product with a two-year warranty on new items, something that even Vespa doesn't offer. Still, when classic Schwinn quality is expected, the new Newport 150s just don't quite match up. Additionally, the production being in Asia, it can be difficult to track down replacement parts in a hurry, especially form the manufacturer.
Still, the statistics are impressive. Built with a 150-cc engine that reaches speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, this little scooter does a great job getting around town. The fuel economy is equally impressive at an estimated 88 miles to the gallon, which is great since the fuel tank is only 1.43 gallons. The 2011 Schwinn Newport 150 provides seating for two, but it is likely that it will be a single rider vehicle. The transmission is a continuously variable transmission, which allows for the single cylinder to avoid rough shifts, although some may find this a bit droning. Wheels are composed of aluminum with 3.50 - 10 51J tires for both the front and rear.
Being extremely lightweight at only 188 pounds, the Schwinn Newport 150 is easy to handle on the road, and it also extremely easy to manually backup from a parking spot. The small size makes it easy to fit into tight spaces. The fact that it can be started by kick or electric push button is a refreshing touch that isn't seen on all scooters, and it also allows for starting should anything happen to the push button mechanism. The Schwinn Newport 150 is an excellent scooter for getting around town, but any type of interstate or fast-paced highway driving is strongly discouraged. Not only will the Newport not reach very high speeds, but it is easily wobbly at higher speeds and wind makes a big difference on quality of control. The braking is powerful enough, and the acceleration is what should be expected from a 150-cc scooter. Overall, this Schwinn may not be a terrible scooter, but it certainly doesn't live up to its namesake either.
- The Schwinn Newport 150 received upgrades in 2010, which included the larger 150-cc engine.
- Other than a slight price increase, the 2011 model remains mostly unchanged from the previous year's upgrades.
- Models: Newport 150
- Engine Type: 150-cc single cylinder
- Bore and Stroke: 2.84 inches and 2.41 inches
- Compression ratio: 9.21
- Valve Train: Single overhead cams, two valves per cylinder
- Induction: Air
- Ignition: Electric and kick
- Transmission: Continuously variable
- Final Drive: Belt
- Fuel Capacity: 1.4 gallons
- Estimated Fuel Economy: 87 miles per gallon
- Brakes (Front): Hydraulic disc
- Brakes (Rear): Drum
- Suspension (Front): Telescopic fork
- Suspension (Rear): Single sided swing arm
- Wheelbase: 54.1 inches
- Rake: N/A
- Trail: N/A
- Seat Height: N/A
- Curb Weight: 188 pounds
- Tires (Front): 3.50 - 10 51J
- Tires (Rear): 3.50 - 10 51J
- A 1708 cubic inch cargo box is available for the 2011 Schwinn Newport 150, which adds a sizeable amount of storage to the scooter. The only color for this size cargo box is black.
- An 1850 cubic inch cargo box is also available, which adds a little more storage capabilities than the previously mentioned box. In addition, it is available in several different color selections.
- Rear cargo rack for additional ability to move objects and items is available, and it allows for up to 40 pounds weight capacity. This is also available as a Valo rear cargo rack, but it supports the same amount of weight.
- A scooter storage cover is available to protect the 2011 Schwinn Newport from dust, dirt, and debris while being stored either indoors or outdoors.
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