KymcoForum.com
Scooters - 125 to 300 => People GT 300i => Topic started by: Scooter-IT on December 27, 2011, 01:45:44 AM
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Hi,
I am trying to narrow down my choices about what scooter to buy. Beside local commuting I want to undertake extended road trips. With the intention NOT to make lots of miles per day but take the time to explore, "smell the roses" and take pictures.
Styling wise I love the Vespa GTS 300. However I am not sure how this scooter will do on the highway's around here. From where I live its pretty much impossible to get anywhere without having to travel a very busy highway with some steep inclines (101, 280, 92).
Also I wander about the stability and ride comfort (bad roads and back) in relation to the suspension and wheel size).
I prefer the step trough "European" style and I have looked at the other well known choices like the Burgman and Silverwing. But these are to much like a big motorcycle to me and defeating the purpose of my goals. The only "Maxi" scooter that I might consider is the TMax since it seating position is higher and it did not appear as big as the other Maxi scooters.
So far I have narrowed it down to these options:
Kymco GT 300i (16" wheels, 28HP) - 364 lbs - Wheel base 32" - Seat Hight 32"
Vespa GTS 300 (12" wheels, 22HP) - 326 lbs - Wheel base 31" - Seat Hight 31"
Yamaha T-Max (15" wheels, ??HP) - 489 lbs - Wheel base 62" - Seat hight 32"
* Dimensions are rounded to the nearest number.
I was not impressed with the quality and finish of the Kymco People 300 I saw earlier this year in a showroom. Someone at the dealer told me it had a rough ride. From what I have read the new 2012 model should have some mayor improvements. Since I haven't seen the new 2012 Kymco in person I wander that this forum can teach me :-)
The Piaggio BV500 forces me into a uncomfortable seating position and offers little protection. I never sat on a Aprillia Scarebo 500 but I have my doubts about the quality and dealer/distributor support.
Looking forward to your thoughts!
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Kymco, of course! ;)
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Being on a Kymco forum I expect a biassed opinion. But can you tell me why?
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Hi,
I am trying to narrow down my choices about what scooter to buy. Beside local commuting I want to undertake extended road trips. With the intention NOT to make lots of miles per day but take the time to explore, "smell the roses" and take pictures.
Styling wise I love the Vespa GTS 300. However I am not sure how this scooter will do on the highway's around here. From where I live its pretty much impossible to get anywhere without having to travel a very busy highway with some steep inclines (101, 280, 92).
Also I wander about the stability and ride comfort (bad roads and back) in relation to the suspension and wheel size).
I prefer the step trough "European" style and I have looked at the other well known choices like the Burgman and Silverwing. But these are to much like a big motorcycle to me and defeating the purpose of my goals. The only "Maxi" scooter that I might consider is the TMax since it seating position is higher and it did not appear as big as the other Maxi scooters.
So far I have narrowed it down to these options:
Kymco GT 300i (16" wheels, 28HP)
Vespa GTS 300 (12" wheels, 22HP)
Yamaha T-Max (15" wheels, ??HP)
I was not impressed with the quality and finish of the Kymco People 300 I saw earlier this year in a showroom. Someone at the dealer told me it had a rough ride. From what I have read the new 2012 model should have some mayor improvements. Since I haven't seen the new 2012 Kymco in person I wander that this forum can teach me :-)
The Piaggio BV500 forces me into a uncomfortable seating position and offers little protection. I never sat on a Aprillia Scarebo 500 but I have my doubts about the quality and dealer/distributor support.
Looking forward to your thoughts!
What is the displacement of T-Max?
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What is the displacement of T-Max?
500 CC's can't find out how much HP it has. I recall something like 60 HP. Either way its ample...
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Everything I have read about the Kymco 300cc class scooters makes me want to try one.
I am interested in the People GT 300i but, my local dealer has not received one yet.
Yes, some of the bigger scoots have more horsepower but, they give up a lot because of their weight.
I don`t want a scooter that weighs 450 - 650 pounds.
That kind of weight is ridicules on a scooter.
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Everything I have read about the Kymco 300cc class scooters makes me want to try one.
I am interested in the People GT 300i but, my local dealer has not received one yet.
Yes, some of the bigger scoots have more horsepower but, they give up a lot because of their weight.
I don`t want a scooter that weighs 450 - 650 pounds.
That kind of weight is ridicules on a scooter.
You are right, based on your comment I added some dimensions and weight to the original post.
Indeed the line between a motorcycle and scooter becomes blurred when you enter the Maxi scoot territory. Not a bad thing I compare a powerful maxi scooter to a modern car with automatic transmission and all the comfort to regular motorcycle and a stick-shift. Nothing bad but just a different use and purpose...
For me I prefer the agility and "lightness" of a real scooter. Want to sit upright and see the environment rather than blasting by. See something and be able to pull over and get off easily to explore and take pictures.
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I did a ton of research and went with the Downtown 300i. I could not be happier.
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One difference between the Vespa GTS and the KYMCO People 300 is that on the KYMCO you can adjust the valves yourself by removing the panels. On the Vespa (as she has a solid steel outer frame) you need to disconnect the rear of the engine and lower it out of the frame in order to adjust the valves (much more work). that being said, both are great scooters. The KYMCO is much more realistically priced. Depending on what you can afford, you will be happy with either. I choose the KYMCO because I am not rich. KYMCO's are good scooters for the money. Vespa's are a great scooter for much much more money. Scoot On!
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Being on a Kymco forum I expect a biassed opinion. But can you tell me why?
For me, it's simply value for money. ;)
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Yamaha doesn't seem to list the HP of the Tmax anymore. They used to, and I think it was around 45.
As far as the Kymco having a "rough ride", members here have said Kymcos in general have stiff suspensions. You can look at that as giving a rough ride or as meaning a Kymco will have a more stable feel. Especially in dicy situations.
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For me, it's simply value for money. ;)
Wow that is a great insight.
I am surprised that the valves aren't DOHC self adjusting....
Perhaps the new 2012 Kymco has????
Also have to find out the interval for valve check to see how much I have to worry about this at all...
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Wow that is a great insight.
I am surprised that the valves aren't DOHC self adjusting....
Perhaps the new 2012 Kymco has????
Also have to find out the interval for valve check to see how much I have to worry about this at all...
For sure I will test ride myself before committing to buy.
Until now I am just dry swimming. Only having experience with a Honda Elite many years ago...
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"Rough Ride?" Not to me because I ride with a backrider most of the time... the misis. ;) The ride is very smooth and great handling even on poor roads. When I'm alone riding, the "rough ride" is a deterent for me to go at very high speeds.
In our country, some Kymco owners would fit or convert the rear shocks of the Honda XRM Underbone to the Kymco. As per experience, these OEM Honda Shocks are soft and very comfy for single riders when fitted onto a Kymco. Tested on the Super 8, I don't know if they will work with heavier Kymcos.
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Sometimes you have to just narrow things down to around 2 or 3 and choose the one you love most regardless of its deficiencies. ;D Choose the one with the X factor. Different strokes for different folks. I choose my Super 8 because I look good on it and secondly, my cash is limited. A similar scooter from a Taiwanese competitor was also a good choice for me, I even like the gauge cluster but I simply don't look good on it. I looked geeky..
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Styling wise I love the Vespa GTS 300. However I am not sure how this scooter will do on the highway's around here. From where I live its pretty much impossible to get anywhere without having to travel a very busy highway with some steep inclines (101, 280, 92).
I can comment on the Kymco...
I've done all of these roads with my People 250 - it kept up with smoothly flowing traffic with a bit of power to spare. Just don't expect to be able to pass with authority... On the flat stretches, it moves comfortably along with the pace of traffic in all but the fast lane.
I've also tested a Downtown (same engine/approx. weight as the People 300) - it certainly has more power at the higher speeds, but didn't have the impression that passing acceleration would be greatly improved on steep uphill grades at lower speeds (i.e. think about moving into the fast lane and accelerating quickly to get around a truck going up at 35mph in the slow lane). But for flat stretches, it'd be fine. In the end I decided to stick with my old People though based on...1) Found out the sales guy wasn't being completely honest (or had a different interpretation of the question "Was this bike ever dropped?"), and that the seat was too low (probably could be altered to fit at an auto upholstry shop).
Also I wander about the stability and ride comfort (bad roads and back) in relation to the suspension and wheel size).
The Kymco's I've ridden (People 250, Downtown 300, and Super 8 150) all have had firm suspensions. But I'd consider a good thing as it does seem well-planted. My only concern has been with the People's geometry that some how doesn't seem quite "linear" to me when cornering. In other words, there's a range in cornering where the steering responsiveness gets a bit too touchy for my likings. Don't know if that's still a characteristic in the GT300i, and it'd be one of the reasons why I'd insist on a test drive of the People GT300 before buying one.
Hope at least some of this is useful info. for you.
Cheers,
DSC
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I can comment on the Kymco...
I've done all of these roads with my People 250 - it kept up with smoothly flowing traffic with a bit of power to spare. Just don't expect to be able to pass with authority... On the flat stretches, it moves comfortably along with the pace of traffic in all but the fast lane.
I've also tested a Downtown (same engine/approx. weight as the People 300) - it certainly has more power at the higher speeds, but didn't have the impression that passing acceleration would be greatly improved on steep uphill grades at lower speeds (i.e. think about moving into the fast lane and accelerating quickly to get around a truck going up at 35mph in the slow lane). But for flat stretches, it'd be fine. In the end I decided to stick with my old People though based on...1) Found out the sales guy wasn't being completely honest (or had a different interpretation of the question "Was this bike ever dropped?"), and that the seat was too low (probably could be altered to fit at an auto upholstry shop).
The Kymco's I've ridden (People 250, Downtown 300, and Super 8 150) all have had firm suspensions. But I'd consider a good thing as it does seem well-planted. My only concern has been with the People's geometry that some how doesn't seem quite "linear" to me when cornering. In other words, there's a range in cornering where the steering responsiveness gets a bit too touchy for my likings. Don't know if that's still a characteristic in the GT300i, and it'd be one of the reasons why I'd insist on a test drive of the People GT300 before buying one.
Hope at least some of this is useful info. for you.
Cheers,
DSC
Thanks for sharing your very informative insights !
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"I am surprised that the valves aren't DOHC self adjusting....
Perhaps the new 2012 Kymco has????"
Yes, you are probably right about the DOHC valves.... I was thinking in terms of my "old school" People s200.
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500 CC's can't find out how much HP it has. I recall something like 60 HP. Either way its ample...
In that case, in my book, this is very easy choice.
Of course, Yamaha.
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If it was for a sporty ride the 2012 TMax is definitely a great choice according to the things I have read and seen online.
However considering the dimensions and weight it's more a motorcycle with an automated transmission than a scooter :-)
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I own both a 2012 Kymco 300 GTi and a 2010 Vespa 300 GTS. As I wrote in an earlier post I am using the Kymco more than the Vespa. The bottom line for me is simple - the Kymco is a better handling, more powerful, and more stable machine that will more easilly handle the challenges of biking. The Vespa is more elegant, has a more comfortable seat, and provides more usable storage. Ride both if you can and make your decision.
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I own both a 2012 Kymco 300 GTi and a 2010 Vespa 300 GTS. As I wrote in an earlier post I am using the Kymco more than the Vespa. The bottom line for me is simple - the Kymco is a better handling, more powerful, and more stable machine that will more easilly handle the challenges of biking. The Vespa is more elegant, has a more comfortable seat, and provides more usable storage. Ride both if you can and make your decision.
Thanks, I read your post as well :-)
Indeed at the end I will need to ride both off them before purchasing, and if needed a seat can be changed ;-)
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Hi,
I am trying to narrow down my choices about what scooter to buy. Beside local commuting I want to undertake extended road trips. With the intention NOT to make lots of miles per day but take the time to explore, "smell the roses" and take pictures.
Styling wise I love the Vespa GTS 300. However I am not sure how this scooter will do on the highway's around here. From where I live its pretty much impossible to get anywhere without having to travel a very busy highway with some steep inclines (101, 280, 92).
Also I wander about the stability and ride comfort (bad roads and back) in relation to the suspension and wheel size).
I prefer the step trough "European" style and I have looked at the other well known choices like the Burgman and Silverwing. But these are to much like a big motorcycle to me and defeating the purpose of my goals. The only "Maxi" scooter that I might consider is the TMax since it seating position is higher and it did not appear as big as the other Maxi scooters.
So far I have narrowed it down to these options:
Kymco GT 300i (16" wheels, 28HP) - 264 lbs - Wheel base 32" - Seat Hight 32"
Vespa GTS 300 (12" wheels, 22HP) - 326 lbs - Wheel base 31" - Seat Hight 31"
Yamaha T-Max (15" wheels, ??HP) - 489 lbs - Wheel base 62" - Seat hight 32"
* Dimensions are rounded to the nearest number.
I was not impressed with the quality and finish of the Kymco People 300 I saw earlier this year in a showroom. Someone at the dealer told me it had a rough ride. From what I have read the new 2012 model should have some mayor improvements. Since I haven't seen the new 2012 Kymco in person I wander that this forum can teach me :-)
The Piaggio BV500 forces me into a uncomfortable seating position and offers little protection. I never sat on a Aprillia Scarebo 500 but I have my doubts about the quality and dealer/distributor support.
Looking forward to your thoughts!
The weight of the People GT300i is listed as 364 pounds on Kymco s website, not 264.
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Corrected my typo; thanks!
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no brainer for me.....the kymco dt 300......
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500 CC's can't find out how much HP it has. I recall something like 60 HP. Either way its ample...
It's got only 44hp.
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As far as the Kymco having a "rough ride", members here have said Kymcos in general have stiff suspensions. You can look at that as giving a rough ride or as meaning a Kymco will have a more stable feel. Especially in dicy situations.
+1 on this in general, but from my experience, the People 300 is the most comfortable (read: softest suspension)
Kymco I've tried. I didn't expect it to be softer then the Downtown 300, but it is/was, and with the 16" wheels
it's the most comfortable Kymco out there easy.
I wouldn't even call the ride quality on my cheapo Agility rough.. it's just stiff, but feels stable and planted because of it.
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Yamaha T-max 125 cc is the best Scooter in today's current scenario. It is very useful to buy this scooter because of its stylish looks as well as great mileage and average. I have prefer this Scooter.
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According to bikez the new yamaha tmax is a 530cc 2 cyl with 45.86 hp .
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Let me just add my 2 cents, I was speaking with a Kymco dealer the other day and from all they Kymco scooters we talked about(including the 500's) his first choice was the 300Gti.
It seems the 300GTi is the perfect balance between price and performance. If you looking for a solid machine that will allow you to commute long distances without having to pay an arm and a leg, I will recommend the 300GTi, bear in mind that after a lot of research about this issue the 300GTi outclassed even the Piaggio BV 350(service support, longevity, parts). At the end is your call, hope it helps.
I will like to add that the Vespa 300 GTS is a great machine, I just don't agree with having to conform to 11 inch wheels, which tend to be unstable for highway trave l(55mph and up).
If you need more information I would recommend you Read Cortez posts on the subject (Kymco Forum User)
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The GTS got 12" wheels if I remember correctly, and yeah, if you ask the Kymco dealers about their favorite
scoot, it's a toss up between the GTi and Downtown 300, the Xciting 500 is rarely mentioned.
This may change with the new Xciting 400, tho!
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Hi,
I am trying to narrow down my choices about what scooter to buy. Beside local commuting I want to undertake extended road trips. With the intention NOT to make lots of miles per day but take the time to explore, "smell the roses" and take pictures.
Styling wise I love the Vespa GTS 300. However I am not sure how this scooter will do on the highway's around here. From where I live its pretty much impossible to get anywhere without having to travel a very busy highway with some steep inclines (101, 280, 92).
Also I wander about the stability and ride comfort (bad roads and back) in relation to the suspension and wheel size).
I prefer the step trough "European" style and I have looked at the other well known choices like the Burgman and Silverwing. But these are to much like a big motorcycle to me and defeating the purpose of my goals. The only "Maxi" scooter that I might consider is the TMax since it seating position is higher and it did not appear as big as the other Maxi scooters.
So far I have narrowed it down to these options:
Kymco GT 300i (16" wheels, 28HP) - 364 lbs - Wheel base 32" - Seat Hight 32"
Vespa GTS 300 (12" wheels, 22HP) - 326 lbs - Wheel base 31" - Seat Hight 31"
Yamaha T-Max (15" wheels, ??HP) - 489 lbs - Wheel base 62" - Seat hight 32"
* Dimensions are rounded to the nearest number.
I was not impressed with the quality and finish of the Kymco People 300 I saw earlier this year in a showroom. Someone at the dealer told me it had a rough ride. From what I have read the new 2012 model should have some mayor improvements. Since I haven't seen the new 2012 Kymco in person I wander that this forum can teach me :-)
The Piaggio BV500 forces me into a uncomfortable seating position and offers little protection. I never sat on a Aprillia Scarebo 500 but I have my doubts about the quality and dealer/distributor support.
Looking forward to your thoughts!
Sometimes you have to just one out of many choice that time we are supporting of the feature of that thing which will be preferable with our choice. Now I would like to suggest about Kymco GT 300i because It has nice feature compare to other and have good engine with 150 cc and also have induction motor for fuel compassion.
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Sometimes you have to just one out of many choice that time we are supporting of the feature of that thing which will be preferable with our choice. Now I would like to suggest about Kymco GT 300i because It has nice feature compare to other and have good engine with 150 cc and also have induction motor for fuel compassion.
I think something is being lost in translation. The GT 300i is 298cc not 150cc. It has a 4 stroke internal combustion engine not an electric (induction) motor. I'm not sure what "fuel compassion" is, possibly you mean good MPG?
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^ You haven't heard about fuel compassion?
I'm only posting in regard to wheel size. I've got a People 150 that I've had about two months, and I've put about 300 miles on a set of Heidenau K63 tires, in the stock sizes (80/80-16 and 100/80-16, I believe.) and it rides really nice now. The old tires were five years old, the rear was a little flat in the middle, so I'm not surprised that there's an improvement, but now I can feel the limits of the suspension, chassis, brakes. Not that I generally ride hard enough, but a good set of tires makes it a very road-worthy bike. They're the only ones with the same model in those sizes, from what I can tell. The two Shinko models that have to be paired to get the right sizes have about the same profile from what I can tell, and I've heard from too many people who were riding them that they do make really good tires to not believe it. And the Heidenau tires set me back enough more that I had to think it through, but I have no regrets. Installation is a cost I factored in, and that made the Heidenau tires less unattractive, price-wise.
I've never felt nearly as comfortable on a small diameter-wheeled bike, so the 16" wheels are a must have on a scooter for me.
I'll post a pic of those tires soon.
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Tmax for sure. Great do it all bike.
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Tmax for sure. Great do it all bike.
I heard about this new Xciting 400, it is new launch scooter in 2012 with new techniques. It have 400cc engine with electric injection, good headlamps and light which gives highly visibility it is good in low light, two front disc brakes which good for security and sudden stopping the bike. It is really good for ride.
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I would choose the Kymco for build and reliability. I have driven vespas in Rome and those small wheels really suck on uneven and wet pavement. A mechanic who used to work on my scooter(SH150 Honda) in the Porta Portese section of Rome used to tell he prefered the Honda/Kymco over the Aprilia/Piaggio because of reliability issues.
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I would choose the Kymco for build and reliability. I have driven vespas in Rome and those small wheels really suck on uneven and wet pavement. A mechanic who used to work on my scooter(SH150 Honda) in the Porta Portese section of Rome used to tell he prefered the Honda/Kymco over the Aprilia/Piaggio because of reliability issues.
See? ;)
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It depends on the choice of the people that which type of vehicle they want to drive and which brand they prefer to purchase the vehicles. I like to drive bike and i have kymco people GT300i. This is really very nice and comfort bike to ride and it give good mileage as well as average. So that i would like to suggest you Kymco bikes are good to use and its price is also affordable for the people.