What performance do you demand from a Malossi variator? When you install one, you know exactly what you’re looking for: more acceleration, more thrust, more adrenaline. Yet, this is only the first upgrade to turn a sluggish scooter into a true speed demon.
Why? Because the variator, to use a metaphor, is the brain of the transmission: it decides when to raise the engine’s RPMs, when to unleash the power onto the asphalt, and when to truly make you feel alive. If you want to understand the true performance capabilities of a Malossi variator, take a seat: we’re about to talk about power, speed, and acceleration.
Power: The smart way to manage the engine
The Malossi variator doesn’t increase your engine’s maximum power. Yes, you read that correctly. So, why does everyone say it’s a game-changer? Because its true strength lies in maximising the power you already have. How? It optimises the engine’s RPM range, keeping it consistently in the ideal torque zone.
Imagine an engine that always runs at the perfect RPM, with no hesitation, no lag. This is exactly what the Malossi variator does: it converts every engine rotation into real thrust. You always feel like you’re in the right gear, even without gears. Every acceleration becomes smoother, every recovery more robust, and every overtake safer.
When we talk about Malossi variator performance, we aren’t talking about baseless claims. We’re talking about meticulous studies, high-resistance materials, and tolerances calculated to a tenth of a millimetre. This is why every Malossi variator kit is specifically designed for a particular engine model, optimised to reduce friction, vibrations, and power loss.What’s the result? Power delivery is smoother, more immediate, and constantly optimised. You don’t increase horsepower, but you ensure it’s used properly. And for those who have upgraded: there is no going back.
Speed: Higher Km/h, more consistent
If you think replacing your stock variator is enough to instantly gain 20 Km/h, hold on a moment. Maximum speed depends on many factors: the engine power we mentioned earlier, vehicle (and rider) weight, aerodynamics, and setup. However, the Malossi variator is the foundation for achieving everything else, within the realm of possibility.
Our Multivar – especially the MHR version – can lengthen the final drive ratio, allowing the engine to run more relaxed at high RPMs. What does this mean? More Km/h under certain conditions, but most importantly, a more stable speed, with no jumps, hesitation, or RPM drops.
Essentially, the performance of the Malossi variator enables you to run your engine at full throttle for longer without losing speed, making the most of every curve of your engine’s power band. And if, in addition to installing the variator, you’ve also upgraded the cylinder, exhaust, and carburettor, that’s when the real fun begins.
Malossi Variator Performance: How does it compare to stock?
The Original variator is designed for daily use, tending to prioritise fuel economy and comfort. Malossi, on the other hand, focuses on pure performance.
- The roller weights have been optimised to allow for a quicker opening;
- The ramps have been engineered to maximise progression;;
- The sliders are made from self-lubricating materials that reduce friction;
- The central hub slides smoothly, always remaining on-axis.
All this means you reach maximum speed faster, with less effort, and with a more stable RPM range. The engine runs less strained, fuel consumption is slightly reduced, and you have more control even when releasing the throttle.
Another interesting aspect is that many scooters (especially 50cc models) have heavily restricted stock variators. Installing a Malossi variator is like releasing the handbrakes on a vehicle that has plenty of potential but is being held back. In fact, all it takes is a dyno run to instantly see the difference.
If you also install the Malossi belt, it’s a done deal. The transmission package becomes a symphony: greater extension, more grip, and maximum consistency.
Acceleration: Feel the power
This is where the Malossi variator plays its wild card, proving that acceleration isn’t just something to be timed: it’s the brutal thrust you feel in your arms as soon as you open the throttle, it’s your bike ripping away from the stoplight while others still have a foot on the ground.
With Multivar or Multivar MHR, the entire transmission system goes into attack mode: the rollers, the counter spring, and the variator geometry are optimised to make the engine rev faster and more efficiently. The power curve changes; you no longer have an initial lag followed by a slow climb, but a continuous, progressive thrust that glues you to the seat.
This is arguably the most visible of the Malossi variator’s performance gains: immediate pickup, responsiveness coming out of a corner, easier overtaking, and a feeling of being in total control, even during the most aggressive changes in pace.
Another key element is the modularity, because every Malossi variator kit allows for a certain degree of customisation. You can vary the weight of the rollers, the stiffness of the counter spring, and the type of belt, allowing you to tailor the acceleration you desire, based on your riding style and engine characteristics. If you also install the Malossi torque driver, you truly enter another level: travel is extended, traction improves, and pickup becomes even more incisive.
An upgrade that changes everything
Installing a Malossi variator is one of the simplest and most effective modifications you can make to your vehicle. You don’t need to be a mechanic; just a minimum of dexterity and a few tools are enough to achieve a completely new riding experience.
Ultimately, Malossi variator performance isn’t just a mere question of numbers on the speedometer – it’s about the feeling, the responsiveness, and the precision. It’s that extra thrill every time you twist the throttle. It’s an upgrade that cannot do everything on its own, but without which all the others you might make would be choked.
