April 10th, 2009 - KYMCO timed their line of Agility scooters just about perfectly for the Great Recession of 2008-2009. When compared to the rest of the KYMCO line the Agility stands as even more of an outstanding value, mainly due to the fact that this model is built in mainland China.  In today's economy, $7000 Vespas just don't cut it for most students, people on a fixed incomes, or the unemployed.  KYMCO created the Agility 125 for these very people in hopes to provide them a fun, reliable, and economical method of transportation.  With an MSRP of only $1999 for a 125cc scooter, they've definitely achieved something.

 

KYMCO has managed to be one of the first manufacturers to successfully institute a real quality control program in mainland China, and this bike shows their efforts.  As expected, there are a few downsides to the bike.  The styling is not the most up-to-date, the gauges look a bit dated, and it doesn't have premium features found on some scooters such as halogen light or 12v power adapters.  While not everything is rosy about the Agility 125, the combined package is an outstanding value.

 

Hopping on the bike I could definitely tell the difference of the 12" wheels versus the 10"ers that are put on some Vespa and Genuine models.  Although this did make the bike a little slower to turn in, it has the added benefit of providing much more stability in the turns as well as giving taller riders significantly more leg room.  The added stability of the 12" wheels allowed me to really have confidence throwing the bike into the curves.  Theoretically, the 12" wheels should make the bike accelerate a little slower than a 10" wheeled bike, but I couldn't tell much of a difference except at 55MPH+

 

Power-wise, the little Agility 125 held its own.  Low down in the power band the engine felt strong and torque-y.  It pulled the bike up Chattanooga's many hills without a second thought.  The top end of the engine seemed to lack a little bit of power when compared to a 150cc model, but the top speed test held up well, indicating 75MPH in a tuck downhill.  I think the engine would prove to be adequate for most 55MPH level roads.

 

 

The fit and finish seemed to be good for the Agility 125.  Although some of the plastics used on the bodywork and dash felt slight cheaper than those used on higher-end KYMCO models, everything was put together well and all of the panels fit perfectly.  On the road the bike seemed to be put together superbly, and displayed little vibration that 125cc thumper engines are known for.

 

In conclusion, the KYMCO Agility 125 truly proves itself to be a working man's (or woman's) scooter.  Although built in China, KYMCO has managed to retain their high standard of quality in the Agility series.  For the perfect combination of price, quality, and reliability, check out KYMCO's Agility 125.  For under $2000, it is going to be hard to beat.

 

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