Just ordered a 2023 Calm Blue AK550. Cannot wait to ride it so binging on review content even years old. LOL Mine arrives late June 2023 cause I wanted the light Blue colour with cruise control, electric screen and rear rack fitted.
@@joaoleao2317 could not be happier..comfy as a scooter but handles like a sport bike..will be changing to larger windshield and adding factory passenger backrest
Definitely! But going on tour of about 280miles without backrest is a huge task; i do prefer Honda products because there is always a reservation for comfortable backrest particularly when you are touring.
Great review and ones done in English are hard to find as these are sold mainly in countries with other first languages so thanks. I hope to buy one soon. My 200 cc gilera runner is needing to be upgraded 😊
Hi Richie, thanks for the kind words mate! Yeah this scooter really is a beast on the road, definitely worth considering when looking to upgrade from your Gilera, let us know how you get on!
Hi there! Glad you liked the review, thanks for your kind words! Yeah the sound on this thing was unbelievable, as you can see, Brett had a lot of fun on this scooter! So definitely worth considering!
Real good honest down to earth review.... Great scooter, resale value is lower than well known scooters but that will change when the Kymco becomes more popular. The lights are better than others I’ve seen and quality feel is better than others. Now, will the reliability prove this unbeatable. ? The exhaust is a must really as it should be standard.
BikeMatters Hi, no, I’ve got a GSA Rallye. (Lowered) But a previous hand injury is now causing arthritis problems, therefore was looking at scooters at last NEC bike show, the Kymco stood out hands down to me.. Honda Africa a bit too tall
@@andrewfrost8422 it's finding the dealers that I've found a little bit tricky, plus I've emailed kymco twice with no response, so in my opinion if a company can't be bothered to reply to a potential customer it doesn't bode well!
The Kymco does look like a nice bike that would do the job well. The job being touring as well as the daily commute. You mention the brakes but you don't say if the bike has ABS or other goodies like traction control. I feel the manually adjustable screen is a bit of a let down. The Suzuki Burgman 650 (which I own) has an electrically adjustable screen so it can be done while riding to give you good airflow and low speed but keep the wind off at high speed while touring. You say the mirrors are well placed while acknowledging that some might think they are too far forward. Once you have them set you won't be adjusting them all the time but being able to reach them to do that if for example you take a pillion is going to be a fiddly feature. Personally I'd like the screen which seems tall enough but I'd prefer it to be a bit wider to cover the hands - that of course would require relocating the mirrors. Thanks for reviewing the bike - it is one I would consider despite what I have said here.
It has ABS as well as dry and rain traction control. I just got my 2022 Kymco AK on Tuesday of this week. Now, I've dropped it twice- he's not joking about the weight. It's like no other scooter I've ridden- much lighter than the berger 400, but heavier than any mid size. I'm practicing as well as building stamina ans strength (I'm a disabled vet whom has to ride scooters) it's an automatic motorcycle really
@@BikeMattersSir, which is a better scooter, Ak 550 Sym 508 or Kymko x town 300 abs, which is larger, longer, wider, more powerful and, of course, maintenance and service are not expensive? Greetings from Serbia 💙🤍❤️
Damn straight dude, currently on a 125 aquila but cant wait to do me test and get on a new 3 wheeler, the kymco CV3 looks awesome but not here till after the virus i imagine
Yes, it is black and stealthy looking - which visually is great in my opinion. Doesn't mean on a normal road during daytime with running lights, I become invisible. It is quite a large visible vehicle.
After a bike accident a few yrs ago I'm struggling to sit easily on a motorbike again... I'm thinking this could be a possible alternative. I never thought I'd say that about a scooter, but it looks awesome and has quite a few bigger bike similarities. Thanks for the review
It is well worth checking out. The Xciting S 400 by Kymco is also a cracking option might be along the more traditional maxi-scooter lines but is such an incredible ride and real comfort. Touring would be great on it. There will be a review video coming out later this year on that. Keep us updated with how you get on. Brett.
After I got bored with my 750 Cruiser I stumbled upon a maxi scooter and I just love it. I couldn't believe a Maxi scooter put my cruiser to shame!!! Hope you find someone to let you try one out.
There's a lot of snobbery from bikers about scooters yet once you've tried a scooter you'll realise what you've been missing - and that's coming from someone who has numerous bikes but wouldn't be without a scooter now. Check out the various 300's that are out there
Brembo brakes but no heated seat or cruise control for a touring bike it should have an electric screen I see the competitive price because they have cut back on some essential items.
@@BikeMatters To compete against the T Max it should be standard to have electric screen, heated seat, heated grips & Cruise control, these are deal breakers for Kymco.
Get it is a nice bike! , I'm thinking ditching the vtx1800 and the forza and just keeping the ak. Had many bikes and always been keeping a scooter on the side and had many , from the 50cc fa , 90cc accis , 125cc agility, 150cc spade, 175cc riva, 250cc helix, 300cc gti ,300cc forza ,400cc burgman, and now this beauty ak 550cc out all of them for weight and size the ak is the best , rides confortable as most scooters and very agile like a sport bike , owned sport bike too and few cruisers. Love the ak.
@@StephanieRuby09 burgman was good but the AK is better handling and speed , I took my AK from Florida to Tennessee like a month ago , put about 2000 miles and in style, I was behind steady without any problems with big bikes, and tail of the dragon was what pushed this ak on top , I could pass my friends just so you know that the handling of the ak is very fun! And easy , burgman 400 is a capable one but can't compare with the Ak550 , with the ak550 im able to do more with , including big bikes because is faster than the burgman so you can keep up with Long rides on highways too , I just took it last week to Miami from bradenton Florida with big bikes again, just so you know why I talk highly about this ak550, and I already have over 4000 miles on the ak550, if you looking to do all like long rides and specially if you will ride 2 up and than I recommend the ak550, but if you just looking to go around town and like from home to work type and than go with the Burgman , im so confident about the ak550 that even that I have 2 other bigger bikes ,1 cruiser vtx1800 and 1 touring ctx1300 I been thinking on riding the ak550 to port Saint Lucy this next week with a big crew, if that doesn't tell you anything we'll I don't have more explanation, just choose what's right for you and what your intentions are with the bike and you'll love it! , I just wanted a lighter bike that is capable of doing it all and that's the ak550 for me and cheap on gas too, easy to maintain and only 3qts every time I change the oil , is for me a fun saving!.
Why, that f- -k I have noticed your comment on the c400 got. Had test ride on one yesterday and thought it was brilliant. But some tells me to keep on buying Yamaha, ie, tmax 530, or 560. You have just saved me the bother of buyin German.🥳👍🏴
I am in a delima of sorts. Sat one and if fits perfect although I do wish the handlebars were a bit higher, maybe there is a cure for this. My delima, I live is SW Ohio is I want the updated ST model and was wondering if anyone knows if the ST will be available this next year. Talked to the Kymco dealer in Springfield, Oh yesterday and he has ordered 8 of the current models but is clueless on the ST coming to the states. However if it is not coming I will buy the current model before prices rise ( I assume ) next year.
It's too bad Yamaha doesn't sell the TMAX in the USA, I'd love to demo this vs it side by side for usage around town where an Africa Twin is kind of absurd.
I'm buying one.....but I will have Saddle Craft in London make me a flat seat that is flat all the way back....so I can scoot back as far as I want to stretch my legs out correctly like any other Cruiser motorcycle.....
I noticed that the speedo is in kmh not mph. As we use mph in the UK that puts me off to be honest. Also, will that cause problems with insurers other than the one you recommend/endorse? Is it viewed as a UK model or European? I ask for the simple reason that I had a European version of the Silverwing scooter with a kmh speedo and the insurance was much higher than the UK model of the same bike I now have.
I got my 2022 Kymco AK550 last week. I received it at Zero miles. Now I’m coming up to 100 miles. I live in Florida. Who has accessories for the AK550? Thank you for sharing. Stay safe!
@@caskstrength7629 I can tell you that the previous older Ak 550 models had a lot of defects, including the front box covers, the windshield and consumption... Now the new Ak 550 premium model has changed a lot, even strengthened it. The windshield now has to be raised to 3 levels and that on the button..you push and lower, wind protection is excellent..as for the knees, they are not protected because the steering wheel is a little further away, the scooter is more spacious, it's like sitting in an armchair, you have heated handles, you have BOSH, German anti-skid ABS, and of course, when the brake is on, you brake, and of course, very there are good things with this AK from 2024, the maximum speed is 193 per hour... A very powerful scooter, the strongest in the Kymko maxi class. max
@@caskstrength7629 Kymko Ak 550 premium 2024 and Sym 508 Sl from the same country.. But Kymko produces scooters for Bmw and Honda and only they stick stickers Bmw and Honda only differ in stickers... Kymko has been around for 50 years, this Sym looks like some excited Chinese...Like when a Chinese puts on a Rambo mask and clothes...Kymko is a very good, powerful and quality product..Italian scooters have bad plastic a little longer in the sun, the plastic fades and turns white..When you want to change an Italian scooter the front light bulb you have to remove 1000 screws to get to the light bulb.. It's not like that with Kymko...Kymko plastic is of good quality, the motor rolls everything is excellent..Someone says that Kenda tires are bad, so they put Michelin tires again, both tires are good. ..I have changed 150 scooters in 15 years..Of all of them, I like the Kymko the best, I think because of the quality...Yamaha and Honda are very very expensive for us. European standard is an impossible mission. Sir, anything you are interested in, ask and I will of course... I hope that Kymko Ak 550 premium will buy you 👍
@@BikeMatters I did the same on mine. Rode in the rain mode for a month. It just makes sense - blue for water and red for power. I guess not to the kymco engineers.
Nice review, hard to find UK based reviews. I'm looking to "downgrade" from a triumph tiger 800 for commuting & general short distance ride to the beach but with a twist, I carry my 8ft stand-up paddleboard. The AK seems to have the tech edge on the other maxi scoots.
Thanks Steve! Good to hear you are considering the AK550, I was definitely impressed by it! I hope you are able to put a demo AK550 to the test carrying a paddleboard.
Owner of one for a year, lowsided over gravel in the parking lot of my apartments (low speed) the outstretched foot fairings took the brunt, leg didn't get anywhere near being crushed. No tank up front to slide into an open book fracture (nsfw google search). Driving over puddles, no problem, bit of spray gets beyond the guard. Screens fine, if a bit short, I ride with a full helmet so wind protection is a bit less an issue than sight being blocked. Rains not bad at speed, at least with proper gear. The noodoe systems kinda never been used, I've got bluetooth speakers in the helmet and gps. I'm 6 ft and still slide down a bit on the seat to flat foot it at stops. It is heavy though, trickier to get on the center stand than any other maxi I've used besides the Burgman.
I sow that in another videos too why the km/h and other things bling and trembling.Its is like this or shows like that on videos? Something else,cause i am interested to buy a 2020 model can you give me an opinion of what and why?I am between Yamaha T max 560,BMW C650 Sport (basic editions for both)and Kymco 550.
As mentioned in the video, the dash doesn't flicker in person, it is the frame rate of the camera that causes the flickering. It is all down to personal opinion and what you are after, I would try and see the bikes in person if you can have a sit and feel or possibly a test ride, and just see what one you prefer. The AK550 is a great maxi scooter with some fantastic features, so well worth considering. Kymco UK dealers might not carry the AK550 as a demo as standard, so maybe worth a message to Kymco UK to try and arrange a test ride if interested - I don't think you'll be disappointed.
It's what you might call a frame-rate phase issue. It's the same visual phenomenon that occurs when you see film of a wheel whose spokes make it appear to be moving in reverse or even completely still. It's caused by the frame-rate of the video being out of phase with the frame rate of the display.
I just drived it yesterday from local dealer in Greece. Great brakes,perfect suspension,very light-drive for it's weight and throttle response is like a motorcycle. I will buy it cash for 9.100€ final price.
The exhaust looks like an old drain pipe, the console sits at a flat angle as if it were an afterthought. There is surprisingly little storage room under the seat. (Is the windscreen adjustable on the fly?) Cross this bike off my shopping list.
The exhaust is a Malossi aftermarket exhaust. The windscreen is not a push-button electric adjustable, it is manually adjustable. With some modern Maxi scooters, under-seat storage can hold a little over one full-face helmet. I think everyone hopes for two full-face helmets. Do you own a maxi-scooter currently?
@@BikeMatters Have a scooter, seeking a maxi upgrade. As you know inventory is scarce these days, most dealers do not have even ONE scooter & fewer have any maxi's. After hours of research the discontinued Yamaha Majesty 400 is closest to what I'm looking for. My moto-mechanic said the Burgman is not maintenance friendly, currently checking out Kymco.
The value is in THE TWIN 550 CC 8 VALVE ENGINE ALONG WITH THE 4 PISTON BREMBO BRAKES WITH BOSH ANTI LOCK JUST MENTION A FEW, ALSO 50/ 50 WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION. THIS IS THE MOST POWERFUL ROBUST AND RELIABLE MAXI SCOOT ON THE MARKET TUE AFORE MENTIONED THINGS IS HOW THEY KEEP THE PRICE SOMEWAT AFFORDABLE . THE AK RUNS CIRCLES AROUND THE COMPETITION !!
Windscreen is adjustable (manually that is), Going back some time now since I tested it - so can't recall 100%. I don't believe I encountered much buffeting, if I had I would have mentioned it in the review.
There are 20 million scooters/bikes in Taiwan of 23 million people. Kymco is the local name brand leader for over 40 years. Kymco is not so famous due to its keeping low profile for OEM manufacturing. Most riders in Taiwan kept their scooters/bikers for over at least 10 years except young kids. The pre-owned Kymco scooter that I am riding was made in 1993 without any fuss. Kawasaki J300 is made by Kymco as a matter of fact while Kymco is making 650c.c. engines for BMW. Both Kymco and SYM were making bikes/scooters for Honda in 1970s.
For good or ill, transport is fast going electric. Next year, in London, England, I don't believe this will even be allowed in the city centre, so it and other maxi-scoots are likely to have a heightened depreciation in the near future, which might be something to consider before purchase...
You got the riding modes the wrong way round. Blue gives the snappy throttle response, orange gives the gentle response. Power output is the same in either mode.
I bought this bike and drove it for the first time today. My god, those mirrors... are useless. half of the mirror was filled with my shoulders. I was unable to see left and right behind me... any solutions. Maybe lengthening the steel bar of the mirror so they are ten centimeters higher?
Most bike and scooter mirrors are useless.....you can only see your armpits! I either do away with mirrors all together or put bar-end mirrors on that stick out away from the handgrips....the bar-end mirrors that hang below the handgrips are useless.....your arm is in the way and you cannot see the mirrors....
What a nice advertisement feature for the AK550... One of the least discerning reviews I've seen of this scooter. Really have to wonder what's in it for you lot. Want more press bikes from Kymco?
Yamaha all day long. Top of the list on reliability at 11% failure rate over 3 years of running my mt09 tracer. It’s piece of mind for me , and my next purchase will be a tmax 560. I love it.🥳🤷🏽♂️🏍😎
@@kevindarkstar Any maxi-scooter pushing more than 400-410 lbs is overweight, after all the old 650 Triumphs came in a shade under 400 lbs, and as most motorcycles I have owned were between 500 and 550 lbs to begin with; which means there has to be a serious consideration given to redesign w/weight reduction taking place on future scooters in this size range (even though one guy I spoke with bought a Honda 600 Silverwing scooter just for the weight advantage in fighting crosswinds when traveling). Happy Thanksgiving.
@@steevk60 Though I do wonder what the standard transmission weighs as the difference would make it a bit closer to being on par in the overall weight category.
In my honest opinion Ak550 is the best maxi scooter And faster than t max of course Planning to buy this next year coz im still paying the lower scooter kymco this year
It's the way the camera picked it up unfortunately, filmed at the wrong frame rate which only appears once played back on a monitor - screens were not flickering like that in person.
Google 10 most reliable bikes. Yamaha all day long for your buck. My tracer is going on 50,000 miles, and runs as sweet as the day I picked it up. Made in Japan only thanks.
@@billy.b652 I would have to agree with this. I have a 2007 Yamaha Majesty 400 and I have had no maintenance issues on it with 44,000 miles. It has excellent fit and finish even after all these years.
For those who prefer reading you can check out my road test review article on the Kymco AK550 maxi scooters here ... bit.ly/KYMAK500BLOG
I love the bike but I don't like all that blinking in the dashboard why you think
@@juliodiaz4493 Blinking is just the frame rate of the camera when recording, display doesn't actually blink like that in person.
@@juliodiaz4493 are you serious?
Is there any issues for AK 550 after several years or mileage?
@@ericmazo5615 This was on a short-term test, so can't advise. best check forums and owner groups.
Just ordered a 2023 Calm Blue AK550. Cannot wait to ride it so binging on review content even years old. LOL Mine arrives late June 2023 cause I wanted the light Blue colour with cruise control, electric screen and rear rack fitted.
Great colour choice!
So...the AK Does in fact come (now) with Cruise ? Yay !
Got one a fortnight ago and love her. Same calm blue 2023 Premium.
@@scottastell9415 Sir, did you buy Ak 550 premium 2024?
Getting my AK550 in about 2 weeks here in California.. Can't wait for the first road trip
A great choice! That's going to be some road trip, what route are you planning on taking?
@@BikeMatters i usually ride through wine country or out to the coast in North bay area of san francisco
How has been the experience? Thinking about getting one
@@joaoleao2317 could not be happier..comfy as a scooter but handles like a sport bike..will be changing to larger windshield and adding factory passenger backrest
I was thinking to buy this scooter here in Ohio. Do you recommend it for long trips? Like 4-5 hours drive? How is on freeway? Easy 60-70mph?
Best review I've seen of this scooter, nicely done.
Thanks!
Thanks for takin me along.
Great review guys! That scooter looks mad!😅
Definitely! But going on tour of about 280miles without backrest is a huge task; i do prefer Honda products because there is always a reservation for comfortable backrest particularly when you are touring.
Great review and ones done in English are hard to find as these are sold mainly in countries with other first languages so thanks. I hope to buy one soon. My 200 cc gilera runner is needing to be upgraded 😊
Hi Richie, thanks for the kind words mate! Yeah this scooter really is a beast on the road, definitely worth considering when looking to upgrade from your Gilera, let us know how you get on!
My vx125 also need a upgrade..
@@joskoz745 Has the AK 550 tempted you?
@@BikeMatters yes indeed
Very nice review. I can't believe the exhaust sound on this scooter, definitely worth upgrading the can then!
Hi there! Glad you liked the review, thanks for your kind words! Yeah the sound on this thing was unbelievable, as you can see, Brett had a lot of fun on this scooter! So definitely worth considering!
Actually ... with the factory exhaust it sounds good enough to me.
You should hear this bike with the MIVV exhaust!!!!
Real good honest down to earth review.... Great scooter, resale value is lower than well known scooters but that will change when the Kymco becomes more popular.
The lights are better than others I’ve seen and quality feel is better than others. Now, will the reliability prove this unbeatable. ?
The exhaust is a must really as it should be standard.
Thanks! Glad you liked the review. Do you own a maxi scooter currently?
BikeMatters Hi, no, I’ve got a GSA Rallye. (Lowered) But a previous hand injury is now causing arthritis problems, therefore was looking at scooters at last NEC bike show, the Kymco stood out hands down to me.. Honda Africa a bit too tall
Subscribed
@@andrewfrost8422 Good to hear, you'll have to let us know what you get next!
Cheers for subscribing.
@@andrewfrost8422 it's finding the dealers that I've found a little bit tricky, plus I've emailed kymco twice with no response, so in my opinion if a company can't be bothered to reply to a potential customer it doesn't bode well!
The Kymco does look like a nice bike that would do the job well. The job being touring as well as the daily commute. You mention the brakes but you don't say if the bike has ABS or other goodies like traction control. I feel the manually adjustable screen is a bit of a let down. The Suzuki Burgman 650 (which I own) has an electrically adjustable screen so it can be done while riding to give you good airflow and low speed but keep the wind off at high speed while touring. You say the mirrors are well placed while acknowledging that some might think they are too far forward. Once you have them set you won't be adjusting them all the time but being able to reach them to do that if for example you take a pillion is going to be a fiddly feature. Personally I'd like the screen which seems tall enough but I'd prefer it to be a bit wider to cover the hands - that of course would require relocating the mirrors. Thanks for reviewing the bike - it is one I would consider despite what I have said here.
It has ABS as well as dry and rain traction control. I just got my 2022 Kymco AK on Tuesday of this week. Now, I've dropped it twice- he's not joking about the weight. It's like no other scooter I've ridden- much lighter than the berger 400, but heavier than any mid size. I'm practicing as well as building stamina ans strength (I'm a disabled vet whom has to ride scooters) it's an automatic motorcycle really
Mirrors should be attached to non-turning section(s) of the Scooter. The Rider needs to see what is Directly Behind.
Shouldn't the Mirrors be attached to the Non-turning parts of the Scooter? I, for one do not get any set-up foreign to the one on my 2010 Gold Wing.
Great review, great production and great scooter.
Thanks - we appreciate it!
that maxiscooter looks mad, i want one soon
It is a great machine!
@@BikeMattersSir, which is a better scooter, Ak 550 Sym 508 or Kymko x town 300 abs, which is larger, longer, wider, more powerful and, of course, maintenance and service are not expensive? Greetings from Serbia 💙🤍❤️
Nice video, enjoy the AK550 paid,$9700 for mine in the Midwest, love riding it
Cheers, glad you are getting on well with it!
My favorites are big scooters even though i'm only 18. I plan on saving for one of these...
Damn straight dude, currently on a 125 aquila but cant wait to do me test and get on a new 3 wheeler, the kymco CV3 looks awesome but not here till after the virus i imagine
@@EMOchops11 Finally got one
@winnerwinds6509 dude, well done indeed, and glad to hear it! All you hoped for?
05:27 "Try not to get hit by Mr Jaguar ..."
05:47 "The black is awesome and stealthy, we like that a lot."
Yes, it is black and stealthy looking - which visually is great in my opinion. Doesn't mean on a normal road during daytime with running lights, I become invisible. It is quite a large visible vehicle.
@@BikeMatters I know, mate. It just sounded hilarious :-)
After a bike accident a few yrs ago I'm struggling to sit easily on a motorbike again... I'm thinking this could be a possible alternative. I never thought I'd say that about a scooter, but it looks awesome and has quite a few bigger bike similarities. Thanks for the review
It is well worth checking out.
The Xciting S 400 by Kymco is also a cracking option might be along the more traditional maxi-scooter lines but is such an incredible ride and real comfort. Touring would be great on it. There will be a review video coming out later this year on that. Keep us updated with how you get on. Brett.
After I got bored with my 750 Cruiser I stumbled upon a maxi scooter and I just love it. I couldn't believe a Maxi scooter put my cruiser to shame!!!
Hope you find someone to let you try one out.
There's a lot of snobbery from bikers about scooters yet once you've tried a scooter you'll realise what you've been missing - and that's coming from someone who has numerous bikes but wouldn't be without a scooter now. Check out the various 300's that are out there
Brembo brakes but no heated seat or cruise control for a touring bike it should have an electric screen I see the competitive price because they have cut back on some essential items.
The screen is electronically adjustable
Wow, this looks a lot like what a Silverwing 2022 would have been like.
I saw one giving it beans through a mountain pass the other day..... Not bad at all
Needs an electric screen, cruise control & traction control. Does it have heated grips?
Yes it does.
@@BikeMatters To compete against the T Max it should be standard to have electric screen, heated seat, heated grips & Cruise control, these are deal breakers for Kymco.
Yeah that's true, it misses a few things which frankly at this price point is actually disappointing 🤨
Ordering one next week!
Let us know how you get on with it
That's a sharp looking bike. Too bad they can't be found here in Canada.
You can order them in the USA.
Coming soon to Canada I think.
Thank you my friend ..but we hope next timemak a review ...with proper lighting so wes see more clear in detail ..GOD BLESS YOU
Thanks for the ride along! You guys in the UK GST any graphics kits on these yet?
I'm not a fan of the digital dash, prefer the TMAX. I'm also not sure if the resale value will match the TMAX, many may view Kymco as inferior.
Getting my 2021 tomorrow!
Happy with it? Thinking of getting one too.
@@shino8854 Yes, it’s fun
Get it is a nice bike! , I'm thinking ditching the vtx1800 and the forza and just keeping the ak.
Had many bikes and always been keeping a scooter on the side and had many , from the 50cc fa , 90cc accis , 125cc agility, 150cc spade, 175cc riva, 250cc helix, 300cc gti ,300cc forza ,400cc burgman, and now this beauty ak 550cc out all of them for weight and size the ak is the best , rides confortable as most scooters and very agile like a sport bike , owned sport bike too and few cruisers.
Love the ak.
@@FandFcustomcarts What did you think of your Burgman?
@@StephanieRuby09 burgman was good but the AK is better handling and speed , I took my AK from Florida to Tennessee like a month ago , put about 2000 miles and in style, I was behind steady without any problems with big bikes, and tail of the dragon was what pushed this ak on top , I could pass my friends just so you know that the handling of the ak is very fun! And easy , burgman 400 is a capable one but can't compare with the Ak550 , with the ak550 im able to do more with , including big bikes because is faster than the burgman so you can keep up with Long rides on highways too , I just took it last week to Miami from bradenton Florida with big bikes again, just so you know why I talk highly about this ak550, and I already have over 4000 miles on the ak550, if you looking to do all like long rides and specially if you will ride 2 up and than I recommend the ak550, but if you just looking to go around town and like from home to work type and than go with the Burgman , im so confident about the ak550 that even that I have 2 other bigger bikes ,1 cruiser vtx1800 and 1 touring ctx1300 I been thinking on riding the ak550 to port Saint Lucy this next week with a big crew, if that doesn't tell you anything we'll I don't have more explanation, just choose what's right for you and what your intentions are with the bike and you'll love it! , I just wanted a lighter bike that is capable of doing it all and that's the ak550 for me and cheap on gas too, easy to maintain and only 3qts every time I change the oil , is for me a fun saving!.
Good review I only mis some more info on cost of ownership. I currently drive a bmw C400gt and I have spend a fortune in maintenance!
I'd guarantee it isn't anywhere near as expensive as the BMW
Why, that f- -k I have noticed your comment on the c400 got. Had test ride on one yesterday and thought it was brilliant. But some tells me to keep on buying Yamaha, ie, tmax 530, or 560. You have just saved me the bother of buyin German.🥳👍🏴
Gotta be the best looking scooter I've seen. Dope.
I am in a delima of sorts. Sat one and if fits perfect although I do wish the handlebars were a bit higher, maybe there is a cure for this. My delima, I live is SW Ohio is I want the updated ST model and was wondering if anyone knows if the ST will be available this next year. Talked to the Kymco dealer in Springfield, Oh yesterday and he has ordered 8 of the current models but is clueless on the ST coming to the states. However if it is not coming I will buy the current model before prices rise ( I assume ) next year.
Gorgeous aggressive scooter!
I'd definitely agree with that!
Great review
Thanks Sergi!
Hope to purchase one soon
It's too bad Yamaha doesn't sell the TMAX in the USA, I'd love to demo this vs it side by side for usage around town where an Africa Twin is kind of absurd.
They do. My local dealer imports them.
Where are you? What city? I’d love to get my hands on one!!
The 2022 TMax is not for sale in the US.
I'm buying one.....but I will have Saddle Craft in London make me a flat seat that is flat all the way back....so I can scoot back as far as I want to stretch my legs out correctly like any other Cruiser motorcycle.....
I noticed that the speedo is in kmh not mph. As we use mph in the UK that puts me off to be honest. Also, will that cause problems with insurers other than the one you recommend/endorse? Is it viewed as a UK model or European? I ask for the simple reason that I had a European version of the Silverwing scooter with a kmh speedo and the insurance was much higher than the UK model of the same bike I now have.
The speedo is very easy to toggle over to MPH. Let me know if you’d like a link. Just hold down a button.
That noe doesn't really constantly blink like that, I think it's the video thingy?
That's why we put text overlay on the screen to say it is the frame rate of the camera which made it look this way.
I got my 2022 Kymco AK550 last week. I received it at Zero miles. Now I’m coming up to 100 miles. I live in Florida. Who has accessories for the AK550? Thank you for sharing. Stay safe!
I also have a 2022 in blue and I live in Orlando
We will have to ride together sometime
Take a ride to my place... let's drink pizza and eat roast pork
Great review thank you.
it looks like it would give Suzuki burgman a run for its money seeing as this is about the same price as their 400
It's more money than the Burgman but packs a lot more spec and power than the 400 Burgman. This is good competition for the Forza 750 and Tmax imo.
Nice review 👌 How is the windprotection ? And how many km on a full tank? 🇳🇱
170km / 14l
@@BlueFlower-h7c And the windprotection?
@@caskstrength7629 I can tell you that the previous older Ak 550 models had a lot of defects, including the front box covers, the windshield and consumption... Now the new Ak 550 premium model has changed a lot, even strengthened it. The windshield now has to be raised to 3 levels and that on the button..you push and lower, wind protection is excellent..as for the knees, they are not protected because the steering wheel is a little further away, the scooter is more spacious, it's like sitting in an armchair, you have heated handles, you have BOSH, German anti-skid ABS, and of course, when the brake is on, you brake, and of course, very there are good things with this AK from 2024, the maximum speed is 193 per hour... A very powerful scooter, the strongest in the Kymko maxi class. max
@@BlueFlower-h7c Thanks for all the info.👍🏼
@@caskstrength7629 Kymko Ak 550 premium 2024 and Sym 508 Sl from the same country.. But Kymko produces scooters for Bmw and Honda and only they stick stickers Bmw and Honda only differ in stickers... Kymko has been around for 50 years, this Sym looks like some excited Chinese...Like when a Chinese puts on a Rambo mask and clothes...Kymko is a very good, powerful and quality product..Italian scooters have bad plastic a little longer in the sun, the plastic fades and turns white..When you want to change an Italian scooter the front light bulb you have to remove 1000 screws to get to the light bulb.. It's not like that with Kymko...Kymko plastic is of good quality, the motor rolls everything is excellent..Someone says that Kenda tires are bad, so they put Michelin tires again, both tires are good. ..I have changed 150 scooters in 15 years..Of all of them, I like the Kymko the best, I think because of the quality...Yamaha and Honda are very very expensive for us. European standard is an impossible mission. Sir, anything you are interested in, ask and I will of course... I hope that Kymko Ak 550 premium will buy you 👍
You had it in rain mode btw which diminishes the power noticeably
Yup, a realisation shortly afterwards!
@@BikeMatters I did the same on mine. Rode in the rain mode for a month. It just makes sense - blue for water and red for power. I guess not to the kymco engineers.
You get the riding modes mixed up... Blue is standard rain is orange.
Aside from that a decent review. 👍
Damn, I thought it would go unnoticed! Well spotted. Brett
@@BikeMatters Lol. Busted bro. Still a good review!
Nice review, hard to find UK based reviews. I'm looking to "downgrade" from a triumph tiger 800 for commuting & general short distance ride to the beach but with a twist, I carry my 8ft stand-up paddleboard. The AK seems to have the tech edge on the other maxi scoots.
Thanks Steve! Good to hear you are considering the AK550, I was definitely impressed by it! I hope you are able to put a demo AK550 to the test carrying a paddleboard.
One of the better looking scooters by some margin. Up there with Yamaha. What is the leg/wind/rain protection like?
Owner of one for a year, lowsided over gravel in the parking lot of my apartments (low speed) the outstretched foot fairings took the brunt, leg didn't get anywhere near being crushed. No tank up front to slide into an open book fracture (nsfw google search). Driving over puddles, no problem, bit of spray gets beyond the guard. Screens fine, if a bit short, I ride with a full helmet so wind protection is a bit less an issue than sight being blocked. Rains not bad at speed, at least with proper gear. The noodoe systems kinda never been used, I've got bluetooth speakers in the helmet and gps. I'm 6 ft and still slide down a bit on the seat to flat foot it at stops. It is heavy though, trickier to get on the center stand than any other maxi I've used besides the Burgman.
Is that titanium exhaust?
Getting one if i get promoted haha
Are they available in the us
my dad loves maxi scooters. thinking of buying him this one or the tmax. which one?
I am thinking the same. But my head keeps on saying the big daddy , being the most reliable tmax 560. Love it.
Performance? Top speed? Road bump test?
adjustable windscreen or not ?
It's defently not the same - and smart - way as on the Xciting 400
Manual, which for the price is a bit poor, should be electric
I sow that in another videos too why the km/h and other things bling and trembling.Its is like this or shows like that on videos?
Something else,cause i am interested to buy a 2020 model can you give me an opinion of what and why?I am between Yamaha T max 560,BMW C650 Sport (basic editions for both)and Kymco 550.
As mentioned in the video, the dash doesn't flicker in person, it is the frame rate of the camera that causes the flickering.
It is all down to personal opinion and what you are after, I would try and see the bikes in person if you can have a sit and feel or possibly a test ride, and just see what one you prefer. The AK550 is a great maxi scooter with some fantastic features, so well worth considering. Kymco UK dealers might not carry the AK550 as a demo as standard, so maybe worth a message to Kymco UK to try and arrange a test ride if interested - I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Any data on economy. Mpg,LPG ?
Which one would you recommend the tmax or the ak550?
Both are fantastic. I haven't had the chance to try the new AK550. Best to try them out in person to see what is your personal preference.
I must have missed it.. can anyone tell me what exhaust he is running in this review? Thank you!!
It's a Malossi, just can't tell you which one.
What I don't like is all that blinking in the dashboard
It's the camera frame rate doing that
Drumb question, why is the dash flashing. That would bother me for sure. Maybe I’m just missing something here.
It's what you might call a frame-rate phase issue. It's the same visual phenomenon that occurs when you see film of a wheel whose spokes make it appear to be moving in reverse or even completely still. It's caused by the frame-rate of the video being out of phase with the frame rate of the display.
one question mate, hows the throttle response of this maxiscoot?
Been almost a year since I tested this now, but from memory is was pretty quick.
I just drived it yesterday from local dealer in Greece.
Great brakes,perfect suspension,very light-drive for it's weight and throttle response is like a motorcycle.
I will buy it cash for 9.100€ final price.
The exhaust looks like an old drain pipe, the console sits at a flat angle as if it were an afterthought. There is surprisingly little storage room under the seat. (Is the windscreen adjustable on the fly?) Cross this bike off my shopping list.
The exhaust is a Malossi aftermarket exhaust.
The windscreen is not a push-button electric adjustable, it is manually adjustable.
With some modern Maxi scooters, under-seat storage can hold a little over one full-face helmet. I think everyone hopes for two full-face helmets.
Do you own a maxi-scooter currently?
@@BikeMatters Have a scooter, seeking a maxi upgrade. As you know inventory is scarce these days, most dealers do not have even ONE scooter & fewer have any maxi's. After hours of research the discontinued Yamaha Majesty 400 is closest to what I'm looking for. My moto-mechanic said the Burgman is not maintenance friendly, currently checking out Kymco.
@@tommythompson6156 Cool, best of luck on the search. Let us know what you go for!
@@tommythompson6156 What did you end up with?
The value is in THE TWIN 550 CC 8 VALVE ENGINE ALONG WITH THE 4 PISTON BREMBO BRAKES WITH BOSH ANTI LOCK JUST MENTION A FEW, ALSO 50/ 50 WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION. THIS IS THE MOST POWERFUL ROBUST AND RELIABLE MAXI SCOOT ON THE MARKET TUE AFORE MENTIONED THINGS IS HOW THEY KEEP THE PRICE SOMEWAT AFFORDABLE . THE AK RUNS CIRCLES AROUND THE COMPETITION !!
Why the lights in the panel is blinking?
Frame rate on the camera while recording I believe. Not blinking in real use.
How is the fairing? Is there any buffeting?
Windscreen is adjustable (manually that is), Going back some time now since I tested it - so can't recall 100%. I don't believe I encountered much buffeting, if I had I would have mentioned it in the review.
Inshallah this is my next maxiscooter
Is it launch in India?
what about two passengers?
The ak is 100lb lighter than the bmw c650 and 150lb lighter than the burgman 650. FYI
I wonder the reliability after a couple of years
You’ve nailed it on the head. Personally, just my thoughts, you’d be better off forking out the rest of your money for the tmax 560.🤔🏍
There are 20 million scooters/bikes in Taiwan of 23 million people. Kymco is the local name brand leader for over 40 years. Kymco is not so famous due to its keeping low profile for OEM manufacturing. Most riders in Taiwan kept their scooters/bikers for over at least 10 years except young kids. The pre-owned Kymco scooter that I am riding was made in 1993 without any fuss. Kawasaki J300 is made by Kymco as a matter of fact while Kymco is making 650c.c. engines for BMW. Both Kymco and SYM were making bikes/scooters for Honda in 1970s.
For good or ill, transport is fast going electric. Next year, in London, England, I don't believe this will even be allowed in the city centre, so it and other maxi-scoots are likely to have a heightened depreciation in the near future, which might be something to consider before purchase...
Not in Canada. I'll be getting one as soon as I van get my bike license.
I doubt that electric scooters shall fully replace the gas ones.
I don't think ppl realize THESE ARE the people who make the BMW C400 & 650's
Kymco made Kawasaki J300 also.
You got the riding modes the wrong way round. Blue gives the snappy throttle response, orange gives the gentle response. Power output is the same in either mode.
Well spotted I did indeed! Brett
Scooters are for practicality, so what about the undrseat storage?
why dose the display blink so that would give me a head ache after while
Frame rate used on the cameras caused the blinking effect in the footage, the display does not blink like that in person.
Is the meter panel blinking along the ride?..
nope it is the frame rate on the camera which causes that.
does it have self cancelling turn signals ?
From memory nope it doesn't
No
Brutal bike
Why is the dash constantly blinking can u stop that??
frame rate from the camera dude... it doesn't flicker lmao
I had a 300cc Kymco; great machines. But know this, your resale value is almost non-existent.
Why?
@@justice7788 Lack of recognition for the Kymco name is probably the main draw back.
Great, that means I can pick up a used one for cheap.
@@wozza59
Kind of common mentality of snobbery.
Looks like Tmax 530
Wow nice scoot
I bought this bike and drove it for the first time today. My god, those mirrors... are useless. half of the mirror was filled with my shoulders. I was unable to see left and right behind me... any solutions. Maybe lengthening the steel bar of the mirror so they are ten centimeters higher?
Most bike and scooter mirrors are useless.....you can only see your armpits! I either do away with mirrors all together or put bar-end mirrors on that stick out away from the handgrips....the bar-end mirrors that hang below the handgrips are useless.....your arm is in the way and you cannot see the mirrors....
How many the Prize..?;How will buy it in India Kerala
Does it have a Reverse gear?
No it doesn't
... how would it work with a 5ft person
its available in philiphines the motor bike and malossi pipe
Tempted to get one?
How much?
Verry nice but the budget are to short
Why is the screen flickering
camera frame rate, its not the screen itself
06:50 Pretty sure your speedo is reading in k.p.h. (cough cough cough )
What a nice advertisement feature for the AK550...
One of the least discerning reviews I've seen of this scooter. Really have to wonder what's in it for you lot. Want more press bikes from Kymco?
Price in the philippines?
Php 599,000.00 for the AK550.
I would buy a T-max instead of this same price but T-max is the most agressive one 😎
I think our friends over at Scooterlab have done a head to head with Tmax and AK 550. The AK550 is definitely an impressive beast of a maxi scooter!
Here in Switzerland the Tmax is allmost 4'000.- more
@@davidschneiter9729 thats savage
@@bertarkat545 yeah it's just over the top...the top version is bit over 1'400 swiss franks. That's about the same as dollars
Yamaha all day long. Top of the list on reliability at 11% failure rate over 3 years of running my mt09 tracer. It’s piece of mind for me , and my next purchase will be a tmax 560. I love it.🥳🤷🏽♂️🏍😎
£10,000 now! Same as a Forza 750! 😮
It weighs as much as my Burgman 400.
Which suggest that the Burgman is too heavy!
@@kevindarkstar Any maxi-scooter pushing more than 400-410 lbs is overweight, after all the old 650 Triumphs came in a shade under 400 lbs, and as most motorcycles I have owned were between 500 and 550 lbs to begin with; which means there has to be a serious consideration given to redesign w/weight reduction taking place on future scooters in this size range (even though one guy I spoke with bought a Honda 600 Silverwing scooter just for the weight advantage in fighting crosswinds when traveling). Happy Thanksgiving.
@@markgallistel9456
Single cylinder or two cylinders makes difference on weight.
@@markgallistel9456 The CVT transmission is where alot of the weight comes from with Maxi-Scooters. They are all quite heavy.
@@steevk60 Though I do wonder what the standard transmission weighs as the difference would make it a bit closer to being on par in the overall weight category.
so this over a tmax 530
and a xmax 300?
for city driving
I'd always recommend test riding in person when comparing bikes you are really interested in, to see what suits you best.
@@BikeMatters easy said, not so easy if you don't have a dealer close to hand 🙄
@@kevindarkstar Sadly this does seem to be an issue! Could try contacting Kymco UK directly to see if they are able to help?
You can have my Honda Forza 350 "when you prise it out of my cold dead hands".
You didn't show underseat storage. you didn't talk much about the engine, who makes Kimco ? not a good review sorry.
Thanks for your comment. Can't win them all. Kymco is their own brand made in Taiwan.
Why the hell do people want their wheels to look "agressive" these days. Shouldn't we want them to look friendly?
I am 5ft,4 I wonder if I'd be able to ride it lol
Naw.😂
I'm 5' 7" and have to be on my toes , seats higher than many bikes I had before but loving it so far.
What models would you recommend for 5'4"?
@@StephanieRuby09 I recently got the 400cc Burgman and I actually really like it. it's kind of weighty but it's solid.
Isn't this just a copy of Tmax 550 ?🤔
The AK550 is an impressive maxi on it's own right to be honest.
In my honest opinion
Ak550 is the best maxi scooter
And faster than t max of course
Planning to buy this next year coz im still paying the lower scooter kymco this year
The blinking left and right screen indicates an electrical Malfunction ..... Not impressed
It's the way the camera picked it up unfortunately, filmed at the wrong frame rate which only appears once played back on a monitor - screens were not flickering like that in person.
If you enjoyed the vidjo! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Still nothing close to the burgman 650 executive
Not a Jaguar, but a Nissan 350Z bud
It's a Jaguar F Type
Google 10 most reliable bikes. Yamaha all day long for your buck. My tracer is going on 50,000 miles, and runs as sweet as the day I picked it up. Made in Japan only thanks.
@@billy.b652 I would have to agree with this. I have a 2007 Yamaha Majesty 400 and I have had no maintenance issues on it with 44,000 miles. It has excellent fit and finish even after all these years.