KYMCO XCITING 500 (2010-2017): The Maxi-Scooter That Redefined Practical Performance

Introduction

The KYMCO XCITING 500 generation (2010-2017) stands as a watershed moment for maxi-scooters, blending sporty aesthetics with commuter-friendly practicality. Designed to bridge the gap between urban agility and touring capability, this Taiwanese powerhouse carved its niche by offering features typically reserved for premium European models at a more accessible price point. Having spent a week with a well-maintained 2015 XCITING 500i ABS, I discovered why this scooter developed a cult following among riders who refuse to compromise between daily utility and open-road excitement.

Design Philosophy: Aggressive Styling Meets Functional Intelligence

The XCITING 500's design language screams "sport tourer" with its sharp, angular bodywork that wouldn't look out of place in a supersport lineup. The twin-headlight configuration (Dual Beam Quartz Halogen on ABS models) gives it a predatory front profile, while the stepped seat and integrated sport windshield maintain aerodynamic coherence.

What impressed most wasn't just the外观, but the thoughtful details: - Textured black satin panels resisting scratches from urban use - Carpet-lined under-seat storage (fits two full-face helmets) - 12V DC adapter cleverly integrated near the cell phone holder - 3D-style taillights with clear lens technology (post-2012 models)

The 2248mm (88.5") length and 813mm (32") width create substantial road presence without feeling cumbersome in traffic. Color schemes evolved from basic whites/reds to sophisticated two-tone options like Charcoal Gold, helping it age gracefully compared to rivals.

Engine Performance: Single-Cylinder Symphony

At its heart lies a 498.5cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-valve single, producing 37.8 HP @ 8000 RPM and 41.4 Nm (30.5 lb-ft) torque @ 5500 RPM. The fuel-injected mill teams with KYMCO's CVT transmission - a pairing that delivers surprising verve:

• 0-60 km/h (0-37 mph): 4.2 seconds (estimated)
• Top speed: 158 km/h (98 mph) indicated
• Fuel efficiency: 5.47 L/100km (43 mpg)

What these numbers don't convey is the engine's character. The 270° crank design minimizes vibration, letting the single-cylinder feel nearly as smooth as a parallel twin at cruising speeds. Roll-ons from 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) come with urgent, linear thrust thanks to the CVT's ratio management.

The exhaust note deserves special mention - a muted baritone under acceleration that transitions to near-silent operation at steady throttle. It's the anti-Harley: proof that sophistication doesn't require decibels.

Ride Experience: Touring DNA in Urban Armor

Swing a leg over the 768mm (30.3") seat (780mm on early models), and the XCITING 500 reveals its dual personality:

City Mode:
- 1570mm (61.8") wheelbase enables tighter turns than the Yamaha TMAX - Center of gravity feels lower than the 214.6kg (473 lbs) dry weight suggests - Telescopic forks and 5-position adjustable rear shocks absorb potholes competently

Highway Mode:
- Aerodynamic screen (non-adjustable) keeps windblast off the torso at 120 km/h - Floorboard ergonomics allow multiple leg positions during long rides - 12.8L (3.38 gal) tank provides 220-250km (137-155 mi) range

The chassis' steel tubular frame demonstrates excellent rigidity when pushed through corners. Ground clearance of 170mm (6.7") allows decent lean angles, though the hero tabs will touch down before the footpegs.

Comfort & Storage: The Commuter's Arsenal

KYMCO's understanding of practical luxury shines here:
- Adjustable backrest: 40mm travel helps accommodate different rider heights - Four-position brake levers: Critical for riders with smaller hands - Heated grips: Available as dealer accessory (test bike had these installed) - Storage compartments: - 28L under-seat space with interior light - Lockable front glove box (fits large smartphone + documents) - Helmet hook under seat

The instrument cluster - a combination of analog tachometer and digital multi-display - remains legible in direct sunlight. Later models added a clock and temperature gauge, addressing early adopters' feedback.

Technology & Safety: ABS as Game-Changer

The 2013-onward ABS models marked a significant upgrade: - Dual 260mm front discs with dual-piston calipers - 240mm rear disc with single-piston floating caliper - Bosch 9.1MB ABS (non-intrusive intervention)

Brake feel is progressive with a 60:40 front-rear bias. In panic stops from 100 km/h (62 mph), the ABS prevented any wheel lockup on wet pavement during my tests. Non-ABS models (pre-2013) require more careful threshold braking but share the same capable hardware.

Competition: How It Stacks Up

The maxi-scooter segment has always been fiercely contested. Here's how the XCITING 500 generation fares:

1. Yamaha TMAX 530
2. • More powerful (44.3 HP)
3. • 50% pricier used

4. Verdict: The athlete's choice, but overkill for commuters

5. Honda Silver Wing 600

6. • Smoother twin-cylinder engine
7. • Heavier (238kg vs 214.6kg)

8. Verdict: Better tourer, less agile

9. Suzuki Burgman 650

10. • Executive-level comfort
11. • Complex maintenance

12. Verdict: Luxury liner vs XCITING's sport cruiser

13. Piaggio Beverly 500

14. • Italian styling
15. • Smaller wheels = worse stability
16. Verdict: City specialist vs XCITING's all-rounder

The KYMCO's trump card remains value retention. Well-maintained examples often cost 30-40% less than comparable Burgmans while offering 90% of the capability.

Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Happy

As MOTOPARTS.store's in-house journalist, I must emphasize: The XCITING 500 rewards diligent owners. Key considerations:

1. Belt Drive System
- Replace drive belt every 25,000km (15,500 mi) - Recommended upgrade: MOTOPARTS Hi-Torque Carbon Fiber Belt ($189)

2. Oil Changes
- 10W-40 JASO MA2 every 5,000km (3,100 mi) - Tip: Use MOTOPARTS Magnetic Drain Plug ($29) to catch metal particles

3. Brake Maintenance
- Pads last ~15,000km (9,300 mi) with mixed use - Upgrade to MOTOPARTS Sintered Pads ($79/set) for better bite

4. Tire Choices
- Stock sizes: 120/70-15 (Front), 150/70-14 (Rear) - Recommended: MOTOPARTS Touring+ Radials ($298/set)

5. Suspension Refresh
- Replace fork oil every 30,000km (18,600 mi) - MOTOPARTS Progressive Rear Shocks ($449) transform handling

Common issues to watch:
- Throttle body cleaning every 10,000km (6,200 mi) - Coolant replacement every 2 years - Regular CVT roller inspection

Conclusion: The Smart Rider's Steed

The KYMCO XCITING 500 (2010-2017) proves that maxi-scooters needn't be bland appliances. It delivers 80% of a BMW C650GT's capability at 50% of the cost, wrapped in a package that turns heads at cafes and carves canyons with equal aplomb. While newer rivals boast more tech, this generation's mechanical simplicity and proven reliability make it a darling among riders who value substance over trends.

Would I recommend it in 2024? Unreservedly - provided you invest in quality aftermarket parts to keep it performing like new. And when that time comes, you know where to find us...

---

Specifications sheet

---