Although by no means a household name worldwide, the SYM nameplate steadily emerged as a major player in its home base of Taiwan over the past half century. A few years ago, SYM made a big market splash in the U.S with the introduction of the nearly maxi-sized HD 200. Soon after came the SYM RV 250, followed more recently by the Citycom 300i.

Working with long-established power-sports U.S. import partner Carter Brothers, SYM has been building a well-measured, modern scooter line-up aimed at a broad spectrum of enthusiasts, accompanied by a fairly broad nationwide dealer network. The challenge for SYM is to establish an enduring, trusted brand profile to compete with the other high-quality maxi-scooter players in the U.S. market. On key questions of quality, safety and freedom from repair, SYM has already gained a stellar reputation within the industry.

Featuring a strong, efficient fuel-injected, ceramic-lined 263cc powerplant, the Citycom 300i might be the key to SYM’s further emergence. One of the most modern middleweight maxi designs available, this offering handles all manner of urban commuting challenges with ease, allowing for some light country touring on the weekends, as well. We are especially impressed with the superb fuel-efficiency reports in the mid-60 miles per gallon – even when ridden hard, or two-up.

While some potential buyers might raise questions about “grade inflation” based on an engine size closer to 250cc than the emerging 300 class, the Citycom’s spirited, four-valve fuel-injected acceleration grades out higher than your typical 250. We especially like the idea of gearing and torque designed to get the most out of stop-and-go situations, not to mention briskly handling the challenge presented by city freeway on-ramps.

Despite only a minor 14cc difference in engine size, the 300i performs markedly more impressively than lower-cost SYM sister-model RV 250. That contrast in engine strength features fuel injection, as well as distinctive and highly functional styling cues, helping explain the sizeable pricing difference between models. At times in our challenging economy, Carter Brothers has provided some hefty buying incentives for the 300i that add a spacious top case storage and an improved windscreen at no additional cost.

The recent emergence of 300-class middleweights gives U.S. scooter enthusiasts a wider array of choices. In most respects, the Citycom 300i is a leader in this long-anticipated coming-out party. On the down side, we’d feel even better about this formidable offering if SYM had opted for dual front disc brakes rather than matching singles front and rear. Another minor niggle: the seat height might prove a tad tall for short-seamed riders – but no more so than the other big-wheeled scoots offered elsewhere.

A smooth ride, nicely cushioned seat and balanced ergonomics make the Citycom 300i a joy to ride for those who have given SYM’s flagship scooter a try. No wonder this model has already built a loyal following, and a solid middleweight-maxi foothold for SYM in a vast new market far from home.