Yamaha has announced a new value-focused 50cc scooter aimed at those looking to get onto two wheels for the first time.

The Neo's Easy is a development of the existing Neo's model that isn't imported to the UK market, but the platform has been adapted to make it cheaper.

Steel panel wheels, drum brakes, analogue instruments and a kick-starter instead of an electric start are all cost-cutting features that mean the Neo's Easy's price drops to £1,499 plus first registration fee and road tax.

Like most two-stroke scooters, the fuel and oil tanks are located under the seat with simple screw tops allowing easy access. The transmission is fully automatic and constantly variable, so the engine maintains peak torque as often as possible.

Riding on 12-inch wheels the Easy is nimble and quick to squeeze through gaps in traffic. Chunky tyres help to absorb the worst of the road's bumps, and while the drum brakes won't be the strongest Yamaha claims they offer `smooth' and user-friendly stopping power.

Like the Model T Ford it comes in any colour as long as it's black, while other features include under-seat storage big enough for a helmet, twin headlights and passenger footrests for use only with a fully qualified rider at the helm.

The Neo's Easy will be available from the end of April this year from all franchised Yamaha motorbike dealers.