KYMCO Announced Three New Models

An all-new 298.9 cc model tops the list of new scooters available from Taiwanese manufacturer, KYMCO. The new Downtown 300i is well suited for commuters who will enjoy the powerful engine and dual disc brakes as well as the many amenities such as 2-helmet underseat storage, a watertight cell phone compartment with a 12v accessory outlet, and an optional top case.

The Like 200

Two new versions of established models are also debuting. The Like (previously only a 50cc) is now available in a 163cc 4-stroke version with dual disc brakes, and dual real shocks. Our review of the 50cc Like in the April issue said that we wanted to see a more powerful engine, so we're eager to check this one out. Finally, the company is also introducing a 2-stroke version of their popular sporty Super 8, which should be of interest to 50cc racers out there. Find out more at kymcousa.com.

The Super 8 2T

Sunday Scooter Testing

The Scoot! team will be out testing some 125cc scooter head-to-head today for our next issue. On deck will be he KYMO Agility, Genuine Buddy,  Lance Cali Classic, Yamaha C3, and a Yamaha Vino. We might have another late entry. These head-to-head comparisons are a little time consuming, but fun to do and give the readers and apples-to-apples look at the stats.

I'll post some photos after we're done.
Doh! Mistake, I blew it when I was listing the scooters that were for the specific test for sunday. The 125cc test did not include the C3. I wish they had a 125cc version! We do have a loaner C3 from Yamaha, but it is for another article. I can't keep our test bikes straight.  

Blog entry soundtrack: "Love Cats" by The Cure

Scoot! Issue #55 April 2010 En Route

Dealers should be receiving their copies of Scoot! this week, with bookstores and subscribers not far behind. The new issues features:

• Project Ruckus: Part 2
• How to lift a scooter safely
• Scoot! City: New Orleans
• Reviews: KYMCO Like 50 & Yamaha Vino Classic 50
• NASRA Preview
• Rally Reviews, Reader's Rides, Scooter Collector and more!

If you are a subscriber who does not receive your issue by April 16th, let us know.

Sneak Peek: Issue #55 reviews Vino + Like

Josh and I decided that we should really go back and review some "oldies but goodies" scooters that have been around for years, but don;t get much attention. So, we're reviewing the Yamaha Vino Classic (50cc). Also slated for review is the KYMCO Like 50.

Both bikes are 50cc, but the Like really is much larger than the Vino. In this photo, the Like may be closer to the camera, but it still is much bigger than the Vino.

Reviews to appear in issue #55 (April 2010)

Midnite: finished packing for my 6:15am flight

On my way to North Carolina for KYMCO event. Layover in ATL but I hear there are thunderstorms. Promises to be an interesting flight. I'll be mobile blogging during the trip. Wish me good luck and good weather.
Happy scooting!
-april

Off to North Carolina next week

I'll be in North Carolina for a KYMCO launch presentation. Never been to NC, so I am looking forward to checking it out, riding its roads and seeing KYMCO's operations. Will try to mobile blog from the road.

My new ride: KYMCO Yager GT 200i

I had to turn over the TMAX to Josh so that he could head to Southern California, but my consolation prize is the new KYMCO Yager. It's much different than the TMAX (what isn't?) but I intend to enjoy the heck out of riding it. We're just closing issue # 52, so look for a Yager review in issue # 53 which should hit right near the holidays.

Progressive Getting Serious About Scooter Biz

Progressive Insurance is making a play for the scooter insurance business by working directly with Genuine Scooters and KYMCO. Progressive has created in-store marketing materials that dealers can share with customers including an FAQ, sample quotes and a dedicated website where consumers can get a quote. Buyers will also be able to call for quotes directly from the dealer showroom.

It's a smart move. Aligning themselves with two of the most popular scooter distributors in the US and making contact where scooterists buy their bikes gives Progressive an edge. Many new scooterists have no idea that they can/should insure their scooters, nor do they know which companies provide scooter insurance.

The Genuine site features "Flo" (Progressive's kooky spokesperson) on a Buddy. While KYMCO keeps it motorcycle-centric with their portal.

Consumer Reports Scooter Testing Results

A while ago I posted about Consumer Reports starting testing on motorscooters. The results of that testing appears in this month's issue, on sale today. I haven't seen it yet, but according to a press release issued this week:

Consumer Reports tested a total of eight fuel sipping, small-displacement models: three 50cc scooters, three scooters in the 125cc to 150cc range, and two 250cc entry-level motorcycles, all priced between about $1,000 to $4,400 and delivering as much as 60 to 100 mpg fuel economy, at a steady cruise. Among the scooters, models from Italy’s Vespa and Taiwan’s Kymco achieved the highest overall ratings, with the Vespa LX 50 leading the 50cc category, and the Vespa LX 150 and Kymco People 150 sharing best overall ratings in the bigger engine class. Among the motorcycles, the Kawasaki Ninja 250, an entry-level sports bike, achieved a higher score than the Honda Rebel.

With their 35 to 40 mph top speed, 50cc scooters may suffice for short trips in suburban and city riding. Of the three models tested, the Vespa LX 50’s smooth four-stroke engine, good ergonomics, controlled ride quality, and solid fit and finish made it the favorite choice, but it is very slow. Testers found that “you get what you pay for,” with the inexpensive $995 Motorino Allegra getting the worst marks for vibration, harsh ride, and subpar fit.

In the 125cc to 150 cc category, the tested models’ top speed range of 55 mph to 57 mph made them much better suited for keeping up with traffic but still not recommended for freeway or interstate use. The 150cc Kymco People and Vespa LX both proved well-rounded, easy-to-ride machines, with responsive handling and easy maneuverability. With its big 16-inch wheels, the Kymco offered superior stability and off-the-line acceleration while the Vespa excelled in ride quality, roominess, under-seat storage, and build quality. The third model tested, the Yamaha Vino 125 could not match the other two models’ ride experience. While offering the lowest price point at $2,899, the Yamaha’s harsh ride and sluggish engine detracted from its cost benefit.

This will be a great shot in the arm for scooters as Consumer Reports has over 7 million readers.

Win a Kymco Super 9

MotorcycleUSA.com is hosting a contest where registrants can win a Kymco Super 9 scooter. The webiste's "My Garage" is an area that "brings together motorcycle enthusiasts in the world's biggest motorcycle clubhouse. It's a place to post pictures of your bike and share your moto exploits through your own blog." The contest ends August 1st. Enter atMotorcycleUSA's site.