The new Kymco AK 550i Premium brings many improvements in technology, equipment, comfort and performance.
- New two-cylinder engine: 51 hp, 160 km/h top speed
- New: Cornering ABS including traction control
- Extensive equipment
With the Kymco AK 550i sports touring scooter, the Taiwanese two-wheeler manufacturer Kwang Yang wanted to show what it was capable of in terms of technology and design on the occasion of its 50th anniversary in 2017. Six years later, the company is now presenting the Premium version of the scooter, which costs over 12,000 euros, as a top model.
The ample performance and high-quality, solid technology are accompanied by modified electronics. The highlight is the first cornering ABS on a scooter. The pioneer of its time in the integration of the driver’s smartphone into the vehicle architecture thus positions itself in the front row among the high-end scooters.
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Display and connectivity
The round “Noodoe” central display in the cockpit has become a familiar feature on various Kymco models. The driver can use it to display navigation, weather information or other information that he has selected on his smartphone . He can switch between the different information levels by pressing a button on the right of the handlebar. Incoming text messages can also be signaled on request, but they are still only displayed when the vehicle is stationary. The system can be certified as being ready for practical use. One drawback is that downloading the Kymco maps for navigation is not cheap.
In the test: 51-hp engine
Beyond the information network, the Kymco AK 550i is a solidly equipped, very powerful half-liter scooter. The two-cylinder in-line engine with 550 cubic centimeters of displacement produces an impressive 37.5 kW/51 hp, the rear-wheel drive is via an easy-care toothed belt . In order to ensure a balanced weight distribution, there is no swing arm, and the engine and transmission have been installed as far forward as possible.
The backbone of the AK 550i is an aluminum frame, and the rear swing arm is also made of light metal. Compared to 2017, the already excellent braking system has been upgraded again: the four-piston calipers at the front are now from Brembo and mounted radially, and there is also – currently a unique selling point – an AIBS system (Advanced Intelligent Brake System); it was developed together with Bosch and guarantees the ABS function even when cornering.
Convincing driving characteristics
In terms of driving dynamics, the AK 550i is a real hit. Both the driving stability in curves and the top speed of 160 km/h are impressive, and the cornering ability of the well-balanced chassis encourages very fast driving. The adjustable windshield brings a significant increase in comfort. The high lean angle helps the driver to ride in a typical motorcycle manner.
Because the variator reacts very spontaneously and quickly brings the high-torque engine into the high power output range, the Kymco AK 550i impresses with its splendid driving dynamics . The sporty suspension works in a balanced manner. The driver is excellently accommodated, as both the seat itself and the ergonomics are top-notch. The very wide center tunnel does slightly restrict the foot space, but the ergonomics are absolutely perfect overall and therefore suitable for long journeys. The mirrors mounted on long arms are in top shape.
Comfortable furnishings
There is nothing to complain about the equipment of the Kymco top model: heated grips are standard, the tire pressure is electronically monitored and displayed, the keyless system makes it easier to start and lock the scooter, and the windshield can be adjusted electrically even at very high speeds. Two glove compartments with USB charging option , four easy-to-use buttons for opening the fuel filler flap, the front-hinged seat and various cockpit functions, the adjustable backrest and the low seat height ensure comfort. The only thing it does not have is seat heating for cool days.
Driving reports, events, tour tips: Motorcycle information from ADAC
The Kymco developers have refined the already successful design: the front, decorated with eye-catching daytime running lights, often appears to be a motorcycle to oncoming drivers, as they often raise their left hand in greeting. But the 550i also looks very stylish from the side, and the rear is in a class of its own.
As a driver, you can also be completely satisfied with the range and fuel consumption. When driving “fast”, the fuel consumption is slightly above the standard value of 4.6 liters/100 kilometers, but when driving at a more leisurely pace, you can easily get by with the standard value. In practice, the 14.5-liter tank offers a range of 250 to almost 300 kilometers.
Kymco AK 550i Premium: Technical data, price
| Manufacturer’s Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Motor | Liquid-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke engine, 550 cc displacement, four valves per cylinder, 37.5 kW/51 hp at 7500 rpm, 51.5 Nm at 5750 rpm; injection, continuously variable variator, centrifugal clutch, belt drive |
| performance and consumption | Top speed 160 km/h; standard consumption according to EU5 4.6 l/100 km, test consumption 4.4 to 5.0 l/100 km |
| chassis | Aluminum bridge frame; front 41 mm USD telescopic fork, 120 mm travel; rear cast aluminum double-sided swing arm, horizontal central spring strut, preload adjustable, 120 mm travel; light alloy cast rims; tires 120/70-15 (front) and 160/60-15 (rear). 270 mm double disc brake at the front, 260 mm single disc brake at the rear |
| dimensions and weights | Wheelbase 1580 mm, seat height 790 mm, weight ready to drive 238 kg, payload 165 kg; tank capacity 14.5 l |
| assistance systems | AIBS (leaning ABS), dynamic traction control, two driving modes (Power/Rain with reduced power to 34.2 kW/46.5 hp) |
| Price | 12,199 euros |
Conclusion: Successful top model
The new Kymco AK 550 i Premium is no bargain at 12,200 euros. But you have to put that into perspective: After the BMW C 650 was discontinued, it only has one competitor from Yamaha . And that costs no less than 13,900 euros, but still comes without an electrically adjustable windshield, cruise control and a few other goodies.
