Kymco KR Sport 125 (2010-current)

The air-cooled four-stroke is perfectly acceptable for a 125 and will have you coasting along at 55mph with no problems, even getting up to an indicated 68mph with a long, flat straight. The power is quite flat, however, with very even power and noise output throughout the rev range. Change gear without nearly redlining the engine and you’ll find yourself in an underpowered dead zone without much in the way of acceleration. Not untypical for a 125, but slightly conflicting with the bike’s sporty appearance. 

The KR Sport may have a circuit-bike appearance, but the riding position is much more upright than you’d expect, making the front faring largely aesthetic as your head and shoulders are far above any wind-bubble it might create. On the plus side you’re unlikely to get up to speeds where wind resistance is a problem and the comfortable up-high ride affords a good view of the road. Steering is light and easy, and the low-weight of the bike inspires effortless U-turns. The clip-on bars can feel a little obvious and restricted – like a mini GPZ500 – but it’s no big problem. The Kymco-made brakes are adequate, you won’t be stopping on a pin-head and you’ll generally have to grab a handful, but for a 125 they’re pretty standard.

The digital dash and nicely obvious analogue tacho are excellent and really give the bike a touch of class. Digital fuel gauge, clock… there are many larger and far more expensive bikes that forgo such touches. Pillion provision is good, with a decent grab rail and good pegs which double up as bungee points. Well angled mirrors and both kick and electric start round off a very pleasing package. Compare and buy parts for the KR Sport in the MCN Shop.