Bang For The Buck – KYMCO Agility RS 125

KYMCO has somewhat achieved a level of mastery in the science of making scooters. The Taiwanese firm has become a formidable contender in the international scooter market through the popularity of what are known as their “global products”. Such are scooter models that are sold in different parts of the world. One of which is the KYMCO Agility RS 125.

At P65,900, the Agility RS 125 is currently the most affordable scooter in KYMCO Philippines’ stable. Yet, do not be easily put-off by the fact because this capable commuter was designed with emphasis on value for money. Also, the exact same model is sold in Europe and North America, markets that have more astringent requirements than our own. There must be something good about this scoot.

KYMCO Agility RS 125

The Agility is propelled by a forced-air cooled 124.9 cc mill which produces 6.9 kw of power at 7500 rpm and 9.1 nm of torque at 6500 rpm. With the Agility’s simple design, weight is kept to a minimum at 105 kilograms. Hence, the easy handling and zippy performance. It is still equipped with a conventional carburetor but it has an auto-choke function to save you the hassle of cold starts. The engine is matted to a Continuously Variable Transmission to add convenience to your commuting. No need to bother with shifting gears, just twist the throttle and go. CVT also helps keep you at the ideal rev range to achieve maximum fuel efficiency. KYMCO claims 75 miles to a gallon or 26.55 kilometer to a liter for the Agility.

The 12-inch wheels further enhances the Agility’s maneuverability. This is balanced out by the 1330 mm wheel base, offering ample stability at high speeds. In addition, the meaty 120/70 (front) and 130/70 (rear) rubbers get you significantly more grip compared to the narrow 14-inch tires of most ASEAN market scooters. It is also worth noting that the Agility comes with tubeless tires, which I believe should be a requirement in all two-wheelers. A tube-type tire deflates immediately when punctured. If this happens on the fly, it can be fatal as this will make you loose control of your bike. If you are used to bigger wheels though, the smaller ones on the Agility may tend to feel a bit bumpy at first. A 5-way adjustable rear shock will quickly solve the issue. Besides, the those little wheels complete the “cute little scooter” look. Make no mistake, however, this is a full-sized ride for a full-sized rider.

I am 5′ 11” and the ergonomics of the Agility did not feel cramped at all. The grips are high enough to avoid hitting my knees when turning and the floor board is so spacious that I can freely move around my (ahem) size 11 feet to find a comfortable position. It can even function as a mini cargo bed if I place my feet on the passenger step boards. The Agility also doesn’t have those tiny cubby holes (which are useless anyway) behind the leg shield to allow you to carry bigger stuff like a cart or a box. Like most Taiwanese scooters, it has a generous under seat compartment that can store a regular open face helmet or even a small full face lid. Yet, the most endearing feature of the Agility has to be its seat configuration. The rear saddle folds up to function as a back rest for the rider and at the same time, it frees up more cargo space at back where you can tie-down a box or a large bag. This scoot seems to be proving itself to be functional as it is nimble. Maybe they should rename it as the Utility.

So if you are in the market for a perky and functional commuter with a price tag that will not break the bank, the Agility RS 125 might be able to give you your money’s worth.