Moving Forward with Fuel Injection

You won’t find Kymco taking huge steps forward with its recently announced 2009 U.S. scooter lineup. Not surprising. Frankly, you don’t want to mess with a good thing. In 2007, we awarded Kymco “ScooterMaxi Lineup of the Year,” so we weren’t expecting major changes or expanded offerings.

When we visited Kymco headquarters in South Carolina earlier this year (full disclosure: Kymco paid our way in full - travel, food and lodging), we got an opportunity to ride on the entire lineup with an emphasis on the newest introductions. From the perspective of maxiscooter offerings (250cc class and above), we actually saw a slight winnowing as the original People 250 has been dropped from the lineup. Also not surprising, given its overall similarities with the updated People S 250 introduced in 2007. If you want a Middleweight Maxi (250cc class), Kymco still offers three distinctive versions – fully covered in our detailed review below.

So, we are talking evolutionary here – not revolutionary. The biggest news is the addition of electronic fuel injection (EFI) on the flagship Xciting models – 500Ri and 250Ri. With the 500Ri, you have the option of anti-lock brakes (ABS) for an additional $500. Both fuel injection and ABS are firsts for Kymco scooters coming into the U.S.

It was a very nice day of riding for motor journalists along the South Carolina countryside in late winter. We had the opportunity to ride many models in a single day, allowing us to better appreciate the differences. What was most remarkable, overall, was the consistency of solid start up and drivetrain smoothness across the entire line. Sure, it was a warm and dry day, but the consistently high quality of the starts and smooth continuously variable (CVT) transmissions left us with a very positive impression.

As for comparisons between the Keihin carburetors and EFI, I would be hard pressed to find a distinction based on feel. That’s good news for the fuel injection because – under ideal weather conditions – you often find that carburetors feel silky smooth by comparison. A poorly mapped EFI can send an abrupt gas surge as you roll on the throttle. Well, smooth fuel delivery and steady acceleration ruled the day on all the scooters I tested.

For the record, Kymco claims 8 percent additional horsepower with EFI - and nothing in our day of test riding contradicted that.  For those of us living in intemperate climates where cold mornings are the rule rather than the exception, the biggest EFI advantage is that you are likely to run into fewer starting problems in bad weather (near-freezing or humid conditions). It is not yet known what impact EFI will have on gas mileage – no official estimates have been announced. It seems likely that overall mileage differences will be minor in comparing the previous carbed Xciting models to the new EFI system.

Before going into specific details about my rides on the Xciting 500Ri, Xciting 250Ri, Grandvista 250 and People S 250, it would be a shame not to mention that the Yager 200i is scheduled to come into the U.S. within the next year. No, this 175cc model does not qualify as a true maxiscooter, but our ride shows it nearly has the heart for it. While not quite freeway-touring capable, this is a refined machine with a gutsy powertrain and a tremendous fun-factor quotient. For anyone who might be planning ahead for a quality ride in something just below the maxiscooter class, holding off until the Yager 200i arrives in the U.S. might be worth the wait.

Xciting 500Ri, 500Ri ABS & 250Ri

Other than the obvious difference in engine size and varying color choices, the new Xciting models share pretty much everything else in common. So, the opportunity to review the 500cc and 250cc versions together allows for some interesting compare and contrasts.

Sharing the platform is good news. The Xciting lineup is designed to be Kymco’s flagship – and most aspects of these models will live up to your highest expectations. While the other two 250cc models have some uniquely compelling traits and much-lower price tags, you have a more-substantial package in the Xciting 250Ri because it was designed with its larger sibling in mind. Among Kymco’s maxiscooter offerings, the Xciting models are the most-refined and comprehensively featured models available.

At left, ScooterMaxi Jim tests out the new Xciting 500Ri. Photo by Enrico Pavia. 

Even though the Xciting models arrived in the U.S. barely more than a year ago, quite a few dynamic and cosmetic changes were made on the new Ri editions. Of course, fuel injection is the really big performance change. However, dynamic changes in the braking, mirrors, windscreen and seat are also noteworthy. As for cosmetic styling changes, you can’t help but notice a sportier look in the new Xciting models with bright red brake calipers, darkened windscreens and various blackened body accents. A majority of buyers will most likely give this bolder styling the thumbs up, while a few folks might prefer the conservative and somewhat softer look of the older version. Gone is the bright orange body color found on so many of the early Xciting imports - and that’s OK with us. Nothing wrong with seeing that distinctive color now and then, but we might like it more when it’s somewhat less commonly seen.

All Xciting models share a host of useful premium features and an excellent overall ride. If you had to use one word to convey the overall quality and feel of these models it would be “substantial.”  You can’t help but notice some really nice touches like the hydraulic seat lift for easy access to underseat storage, accessory 12-volt charging outlet, and the well-designed, stylish display cluster. From my perspective as a physically typical 5’11” American male, the ergonomics are perfect with everything comfortably placed where you’d want it located. For much smaller riders, the setup might not be quite so ideal. The overall riding impression of the Xciting line is soft and smooth. We don’t hesitate to add “strong” to the description, especially on the 500Ri. In fact, even the 250Ri qualifies as nearly as quick and strong as its big brother right up to nearly 60 mph. Actual engine sizes are a dual overhead cam 498.5cc and single overhead cam 249cc, both of which are bigger and stronger than most scooter powerplants in their respective classes. This is especially apparent with the EFI power boost in the new models.

Considering that the 500cc version adds more than 60 pounds to the setup, it was somewhat surprising to find that the two engine sizes seemed to have very similar acceleration, performance and agility characteristics all the way up to parkway speeds. Looking at it another way, few scooters in the 500cc class can match the Xciting for smooth initial acceleration, agility and nimble handling. In the 250cc class, though, the 61.8” wheelbase and 88.6” overall length makes this configuration feel somewhat soft and sluggish in comparison to many of the middleweight class competitors. Then again, very few (if any) two wheelers in the 250cc class will feel more stable and comfortable at highway speeds. Another notable advantage for the 250 is the braking capability with the 250Ri featuring the same dual disc front and single disc rear setup as the 500Ri.  Of course, the 250 claims considerably better gas mileage and range from the 3.4 gallon capacity tank. All of the Kymco 250cc scoots can achieve well above 60 mpg while the 500cc reaches the mid to upper 40s mpg.

At right, the previous Xciting model in orange. Very orange.

Clearly, the overall design of the Xciting lineup is geared for the heavier and more powerful 500cc configuration. That’s all to the good because you’d be asking for trouble if you tried the other way by bulking up too much on a lighter duty chassis. Then again, Kymco has done an excellent job of achieving a consistently balanced and solid feel on both the 250 and 500.

We have only one minor complaint about a change made on the new Xciting models. The thinner banana-shaped seat has the advantage of bringing shorter riders nearly two inches closer to the ground, but compromises on overall comfort. Unfortunately, lengthy touring rides can send an unpleasantly numbing sensation to those very sensitive parts of the male anatomy. The older Xciting seat – which is softer and more level – can be swapped out with the newer version. Perhaps a helpful dealer will offer a swap, or you can make a deal with a short Xciting rider who is seeking the lower seat. Many motorcycles have lousy seats, so various cushy aftermarket remedies also are available. The simplest no-cost remedy, of course, calls for taking a five-minute decompression break now and then. In fact, those regular short breaks on long rides are always advisable for safety’s sake.

Overall, the Xciting models have earned their flagship status and strong reputation for quality. The ride is very nicely balanced, fit and finish is first rate, and you get a lot of high-performance scooter for your money. Also worth noting - all Kymco scooters offer a 24-month warranty.

Now we move on to the other two 250s offered by Kymco in the U.S., retailing at $800-900 less than the Xciting 250Ri.

Grandvista 250 & People S 250

It is unusual to find a marque offering two models in the same class at virtually the same suggested retail price. (A year ago, both models retailed for $4,399, but the People S 250 MSRP trickled $100 higher this year.) On the surface of it, we wondered why Kymco would set the price similarly even though the newer model features a more-modern design and larger wheels.

Then we got the opportunity to ride both the Grandvista 250 and People S 250 on the same day, and we really appreciated the differences. Even though the Grandvista is an older design with relatively small wheels, we now understand why so many owners of this model tend to rave about it. We like the People S 250 nearly as much overall, and suspect the typical customer will give this newer model the nod in the looks department. The size of rider may well determine which of these two models works best for you. Long-legged riders likely will find seating and ergonomics on the People a somewhat better fit.

At left, Jim leans on the Grandvista - and likes it. Photo by Enrico Pavia.

Still, my average-sized frame remained perfectly comfortable on an extended Grandvista ride at the end of the long riding day in South Carolina. I expected that smaller wheels and a short wheelbase would make for a nervous ride on the country parkways. Nope. The lumbar-supportive seat was very comfortable (although not terribly attractive), suspension was firm yet smooth, and acceleration was brisk. Around town and in tight spaces, the 12” wide-profile tires and relatively short 56.4” wheelbase result in an especially nimble ride. For somewhat less-experienced or even newbie riders, the Grandvista is a particularly easy-handling and confidence-inspiring Middleweight Maxi.

The Grandvista has an unusual mini-tourer look with a tall windscreen and wide front faring yielding lots of weather protection. We like the straightforward dash display and comfortable floorboards. The ample seat with padded backrest easily accommodates a passenger, but touring for several hours two-up would be asking a lot from any 250cc scooter. Also unusual are the large, motorized retractable mirrors with wind deflectors. Their anti-glare, blue-tinted surface and dual mirror angles for wider views can be unsettling at first. We adjusted to them quickly, though, and they seem to provide a more-stable and safer rear view than typical stock mirrors.

The People S 250 shares the same powertrain components as the Grandvista and has virtually the same wheelbase length. Beyond that, they share almost nothing in common. Rolling on 16” wheels behind a smaller faring and a minimalist windscreen gives you a much different feel in comparison to the Grandvista. Frankly, the big-wheeled People simply isn’t as nimble in tight quarters and around town. On the road at higher speeds, the People surely will give you more sense of the wind in your face. Some people like that sensation, but others prefer more protection from the elements. The Grandvista makes you somewhat more visible to other motorists.

With the People, you get dual front disc brakes and slightly surer stopping power. The Grandvista gives you a tachometer to tell you more about how the CVT transmission is performing. A minor edge goes to the People for slightly lower weight, but the Grandvista can claim a just-barely larger fuel capacity and more storage under the seat. Both models have liquid cooling, a 12-volt accessory outlet, and a rear carrier rack. These models never would be described as bare bones even though neither is quite as full-featured as the Xciting lineup.

At right, two People S 250s ready to head out for test rides from Kymco HQ.

Based on our South Carolina visit, we were somewhat disappointed with two aspects of the People S 250 ride experience. First, our feet and legs never quite got comfortable because the floorboards narrow awkwardly to the rear, forcing ankles outward and knees closer together. The previous People 250 model had a far more-spacious and comfortable floorboard configuration. Second, the instrument display cluster angles skyward to pick up bright reflections. Even in good lighting conditions, the upward display angle reduces readability.

These are the kind of unlikely problems that really pop out at you when you’re evaluating several high-quality scooters at the same time. So much top-notch design and quality engineering goes into the entire Kymco lineup, these occasional deficiencies tend to stand out. Despite a couple of drawbacks, our overall riding experience on the People S 250 was very positive. The model is a worthy middleweight contender to consider, especially so if you are tall or want the added road stability offered by 16” wheels.

Conclusion

We went into our extensive Kymco test riding day with high expectations. After all, it had been just a few weeks since ScooterMaxi.com designated the Taiwan-based brand with the prestigious Lineup of the Year Award of Distinction. Not only did our Kymco tests meet those high expectations, we were especially impressed with the consistently smooth and strong performance in every model we rode, from 50cc to 500cc.

And spending a pleasantly warm winter day in South Carolina riding the hours away was, of course, an exhaustingly good time. Glad I don’t do any four-wheeler reviews – those unfortunate riders got totally washed out in the downpour the next day.