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.
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.
2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125 Specs
ENGINE
- Type: Air-cooled SOHC 2-valve 124cc single
- Bore x stroke: 54mm x 54mm
- Maximum power: 8 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm
- Maximum torque: 6.3 ft/lbs @ 6,000 rpm
- Compression ratio: 8.6:1
- Fuel management: Carburetor
- Starting:Â Electric and kick
- Transmission: 4-speed
- Clutch: Manual
- Final drive: Chain
CHASSIS
- Front suspension:Â Non-adjustable forks
- Rear suspension: Non-adjustable shock
- Tires f/r – 2.75-17 /Â 3.50-17
- Front brake: 276mm disc w/ four-piston caliper
- Rear brake: Drum
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- L x W x H: 76.4 x 37 x 41.3 inches
- Wheelbase: 50.8Â inches
- Seat height: 31 inches
- Fuel capacity: 1.2 gallons
- Dry weight: 224 pounds
- EPA estimated fuel consumption: 70 mpg
- Colors:Â Red; Pearl White; Black
- Warranty: Two-year factory warranty; optional Kymco extended protection plan.
2016 Kymco K-Pipe 125 Price:
- $1,999 MSRP