Kymco People

Introduction

KYMCO (Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd) is a scooter and motorcycle manufacturer who is known popularly for manufacturing parts for Honda Two-Wheeler Company Ltd. This Taiwanese manufacturer is popularly known for its knack of producing the finest lineup of scooters all over the world. Initially, it was founded in 1963 but came to compete in the market in 1992. Slowly but steadily, it became the fifth largest scooter manufacturer in the world. Although, the company is a Taiwan based manufacturer, it has also gained a remarkable presence in the US since the past 30 years. The renowned scooter manufacturer introduced an international version of the Kymco People scooter at EICMA 2011 exhibition.

Design

Kymco People is widely known for its robust yet elegant design. The scooter is made light weighted (117.6 kg) especially for female customers. Defining Kymco People’s exterior design, prime attention is gained by the simple headlight assembly that looks beautiful along with signal lights placed on the flap’s claws. External dimensions are 1985 mm x 680 mm x 1145 mm (L x W x H). The body signifies a streamlined design, that has been crafted to aid its easy-to-ride characteristics. The front headlight is designed clock faced which complements its front profile. Speedometer, odometer, tachometer and fuel level indicator come as standard for tracking the fuel consumption and speed, and are arranged in an easy to read layout. It has rear view mirrors, that have been chrome plated to add a pinch of luxury to the scooter’s fascia.

Engine, Economy & Performance

Kymco People is equipped with a 125cc, air-cooled SOHC and 4-stroke single cylinder gasoline engine, which is coupled to a CVT transmission. This powering mill is tuned to churn out a maximum power of 8.84 hp at 7500 revs/min and the torque of 9.8 Nm at 5000 revs/min. The engine also features EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) technology which helps in delivering decent fuel consumption of 1.66 litres per 100 km. Though the power output is in no sense an exhilarating figure, it is enough for tackling city requirements with ease.

Handling

Kymco People is equipped with Telescopic forks at the front and dual shock rear suspension. This suspension setup makes it easy to handle, in varied conditions and diverse terrains. It stands over 16-inch front and 14-inch rear tubeless tyres, that provide enough grip. Additionally, a relatively smaller wheelbase of 1320 mm provides a tight turning radius, thus enhancing the People’s maneuverability.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

As far as safety is concerned, Kymco People is incorporated with hydraulic front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. These brakes provide enough bite and feedback to stop the motorcycle under a respectable distance, even from high speeds. Though the stopping power is potent, the front disc brake tends to lock easily under hard braking, pointing to the absence of ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System).

Verdict

Kymco People is a beautifully styled and specially designed scooter, that is squarely aimed at women and young riders. Moreover, the price at which the People is being offered makes it a tempting buy for anyone looking for a budget commuter.