Kymco Visar 2018 — Specifications

When Kymco decides to turn the page, it doesn't do so halfway. The Visar inherits the clientele of the CK1 but refuses to wear its overly sensible suit. From the first glance, the silhouette is striking: a sharpened front fork, sculpted flanks that incorporate the turn signals, a standard-fit engine guard. Taiwan sends a 125 that asserts its character, which is not so common in this segment often marked by raw functionality.

Under the 13.5-liter fuel tank, the two-valve, four-stroke single-cylinder engine now runs on injection and meets Euro4 requirements. The 10 horsepower peaks at 8000 rpm, torque tops out at 11.8 Nm at 7000 rpm. These figures clearly position the machine: it handles well in the city, it follows the flow on national roads, but does not claim to exceed 100 km/h at sustained cruising speed. It's honest. This single-cylinder has a reputation for being economical and robust, two qualities that weigh heavily when buying a first motorcycle or a daily commuter.

The chassis remains what it was: a no-frills steel tubular frame, a small-diameter telescopic fork, 80/100-17 tires at the front and 110/80-17 at the rear. Nothing revolutionary. The real novelty on the rolling chassis is the abandonment of the rear drum brake in favor of a coupled disc brake. A concrete improvement, which counts in urban emergency situations. The 136 kg fully fueled remains within the category standard, without being particularly flattering.

The problem arises at the cash register. Displayed at 2,599 euros, the Visar has lost its main advantage over the Japanese: the price. The Yamaha YS 125 and the Honda CBF 125 find themselves in the same price bracket, with more extensive distribution networks and a brand image that reassures novice buyers. On the other flank, vintage 125s with retro inspiration like the Mash Seventy Five or Black Seven seduce those looking for a defined style for a comparable budget. The Visar finds itself caught between two fires, neither the institutional solidity of the Japanese nor the originality of the Sino-French.

It is primarily aimed at A1 license holders and car drivers who want a lightweight machine for urban and suburban journeys. Its style holds up, its engine is proven, and the whole gives an impression of correct finish for the price requested. However, Kymco will have to work on its positioning: in an increasingly competitive 125 roadster market, charm is not enough to compensate for a reputation gap.