2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125 First Look – A Grom/Z125 Alternative

May 25, 2016

2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125 First Look

If you find the Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro interesting, but want something different, here is the 2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125. The Taiwanese Kymco is certainly not a clone of the Honda and Kawasaki 125s, as K-Pipe 125 has its own features that set it apart.

Right away, you’ll notice that the 2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125 runs $1,999, which is $1,000 less than the Z125’s price and $1200 less than the Grom. Of course, you’re going to be getting a lower-spec motorcycle, but there are a few features about the K-Pipe that draw our attention, in addition to the price.

Unlike the fuel-injected Honda and Kawasaki, the Kymco comes with a carburetor. While some Luddites may prefer a carb, most riders will consider EFI to be superior. Also, the Grom and the Z125 have rear disc brakes, while the Kymco K-Pipe uses a simple drum. All three bikes have a disc front brake.

One feature that may entice buyers is the full-sized wheels on the Kymco K-Pipe 125. Its 17-inch wheels compare favorably to the 12-inch wheels on the Japanese machines. Despite the considerably larger wheels, the K-Pipe has a seat height that slides right between the Grom and Z125. The dry weight of the K-Pipe is the same as the curb weight of the Grom and Z125, so the K-Pipe is noticeably heavier. Part of that may be due to its longer wheelbase, which certainly will add pounds.

While the Grom and Z125 Pro have contemporary appearances, the Kymco K-Pipe has a raw appearance, that feels a bit like an unfinished Honda Ruckus. The K-Pipe is on the ungainly side, and that gives it something of an authentic third-world appeal that will attract Millennials. In contrast, the lighting and LCD dashboard look fully contemporary.

The EPA estimate of 70 mpg for the K-Pipe is disappointing, given the Grom’s rating of 134 mpg, though the K-Pipe’s $1,200 lower price will buy a lot of 87 octane.

There is definitely a market for these small bikes, and by undercutting significantly in the price department, the 2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125 definitely has carved out a niche for itself.