Kymco Xciting 300i

Kymco - unlike the Yamaha Xmax’s robotic appearance - takes a more organic approach to its design. The front end takes an almost beak-like shape with sharp dual headlights that cover almost the entirety of the large front apron. These headlights, as well as the taillights, use LEDs for better illumination. The front is also provided with LED DRLs that makes it very noticeable. But it is the front apron that is the most eye-catching here. The shape is very aggressive and lends it a sporty image. It does end a bit short though and this is where that large windscreen comes into play. It is decently wide and works very well in protecting the rider from the oncoming wind. The entire body of the scooter carries the same flowing design that looks understated compared to others in the segment. Small touches like the shape of the exhaust help carry that look forward. There are various slashes and creases and vents placed on the bodywork but the design still looks mature. Except for probably the split grab rail. At 2121 mm long, 785mm wide and 1280 mm high, it is also quite compact. The front carries a 14” five-spoke alloy wheel while the rear sports a 13”. Tires are 120/70 for the front and 150/70 for the rear. There are two colors on offer here – white and black – both accented with complimentary black and silver respectively to give it that extra edge. Being a maxi scooter, it comes with the usual trappings of the genre. There is a large under seat storage area, that can easily fit a full face helmet. The spine of the underbone frame still pokes out from between the rider's legs but there is enough space on the footboard to stretch out. The fuel filler is also conveniently on the spine with its own lockable cap. There is also a 12V charging socket behind the front apron that has its own lockable cover. However, it could have been a little bigger. The digital instrumentation inside the dual pod setup looks classy. It is also very easy to read and very comprehensive. The Kymco Xciting 300i then is a stylish maxi scooter that is also quite practical. The quality of the materials used could have been a little better.

The Kymco Xciting 300i uses an underbone frame with telescopic front forks and a double-sided swingarm with twin 5 step adjustable for preload shock absorbers in the rear. The seating position is as you’d expect from a maxi scooter. The rider sits in the scooter instead of on it. The rider’s seat is provided with a small backrest that adds to that effect. The scooter is a bit heavy at 168 kg dry. But the weight of the scooter is carried low, giving it a low center of gravity and making for easy maneuverability. The 1450 mm wheelbase is also compact enough making it an easy drive in city traffic.

The Xciting 300i is powered by a 299cc SOHC 4-valve fuel injected and liquid-cooled single cylinder engine. It produces a peak power output of 29 hp at 7500 rpm alongside 30 Nm of torque at 6250 rpm. The power is sent to the rear wheel through a CVT transmission. The engine pulls nicely up to 100 kmph and provides brisk acceleration. Some vibrations are felt at high speeds but that is expected. The scooter comes with an 11 L fuel tank. This makes it at home on the highway.

The Kymco Xciting 300i is provided with a 260 mm disc in the front and a 240 mm disc in the rear. The scooter is also equipped with dual channel ABS for added confidence.

The Kymco Xciting 300i is a great mid-size maxi scooter. It comes with all the practicality, performance, and comfort that you’d expect from a scooter in this segment. Is it good enough to beat the Yamaha Xmax? Only you can decide.