Yesterday, the 12th of January 2024 Modenas, the national motorcycle manufacturer launched the Taiwanese designed and built KYMCO AK550 Premium scooter. The introduction of the CBU (fully imported) AK550 Premium to the Malaysian market is not just a product launch but the culmination of the strategic agreement made in 2016 where Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) was officially appointed as the exclusive distributor of Kymco products, here in Malaysia.
Under this agreement, EMOS were granted the right of distribution, sales, and marketing of Kymco scooters throughout Malaysia. Since the appointment in 2016, Modenas has been involved in the assembly, testing, and rigorous quality inspection of Kymco products, up to 250cc. But note that this isn’t a 250cc scooter, it is something with a 550cc engine. Much bigger. So it does seem that Modenas feel that the established Kymco brand should hit the premium scooter market from the likes of it.
According to EMOS CEO Mr Roslan Roskan, EMOS is currently preparing for few more new scooter models, and exploring larger capacity engine CKD manufacturing motorcyclesin the future. So this 550cc premium CBU scooter is definitely a trial run towards the brand’s reception. KYMCO is one of the largest motorcycle manufacturer in Taiwan where they produce over 570,000 motorcycles and scooters annually.
As for the KYMCO AK550 Premium, it is priced at RM65,600 (without insurance and roadtax). This ‘Super Touring’ scooter will be available at selected Authorised Modenas Dealer Showroom in February 2024. Colours offered are Flat Brown and Black.
Although this may seem on the higher end of the premium priced scooters in Malaysia, it would basically fall down to the fact that this is a CBU or fully imported model, hence the price. You do get a higher end maxi-scooter though, featuring the latest technology.
The aluminium frame is designed by KYMCO to be very light and strong, so that the riding experience will feel easy and steady. The newly designed 550cc 2-cylinder engine is designed to be smooth and to respond quickly. It has a maximum output of 37.5kW or 50.9hp and 52Nm of torque at 6,000rpm, which should give itgood acceleration and top speed.
EMOS says that the AK550 Premium features both performance and safety. The special front fork and Brembo front brake made it possible. This safety feature helps the bike stay nimble and steady and provide excellent stopping power when you need it.
This model has a special safety feature called AIBS, short for Advanced Intelligent Braking System. AIBS makes safety even better by using a sensor to control how much the brakes are applied to each wheel when you're turning, especially when the tires are already gripping as much as they can.
Also, it has two power modes for riders to tackle different weather conditions. Besides the regular "Full Power" setting, there's a "Rain Mode" that gives a gentler power output and softer throttle response, suitable for wet surfaces with low grip. Aside from that, the included Traction Control helps as well especially during unexpected slippery situations.
Other notable extras are the electronic adjustable windshield can reduce the air pushing against the rider, making long rides less tiring.It also features charging ports and a center console that is easy-to-use. Motorcycle riders need various items for their journeys, and it provides ample storage space to keep them. Rider comfort’s been considered where its plush seat’s lumber support are manually adjustable.
There is also a smartphone application called Noodoe. This is the smart feature developed by KYMCO that connects the AK550’s Premium LCD dash via Bluetooth, to your smartphone. You can use important smartphone functions even while riding, and this feature will greatly improve your motorcycle experience.
The Ride Mode tells you the weather when you start your journey, guides you safely with the Smart Compass, shows you what's around, reminds you of your speed, and, of course, displays the time
to help you stay on schedule. And You don't even need to remember where you parked. Noodoe app, will help to locate your bike in no time.
So yes, KYMCO is basically starting to sell their motorcycles here in Malaysia via Modenas.
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