KYMCO Canada has a nice selection of entry-level, city-oriented scooters including the big-wheeled Agility City 50 4T and the retro-styled, fuel-injected Sento 50i. Compared to those two, the all-new 2015 KYMCO Super 8R Naked 50 is arguably the more traditional option. In fact, the Taiwanese manufacturer insists it was designed for young, urban riders with a modern, sporty style focused on the essentials.

Photo: KYMCO

KYMCO likely wanted to capitalize on the growing popularity of naked bikes, so they created a scooter with an aluminum “naked” stem in place of a clad headset. Also new for 2015 is the panelling on the rear flanks, not to mention the cargo rack in brushed aluminum instead of painted steel. Add a large headlamp, a large front disc brake and black aluminum rims, and you’ve got a machine with a fairly aggressive look.

Despite a relatively high stance (787mm seat height), the Agility-based 2015 KYMCO Super 8R Naked 50 boasts a low centre of gravity, the company promises. It's a more compact scooter with a shorter wheelbase and a lower overall weight (92.5kg vs. 108kg) than the outgoing model. It also features 12” wheels instead of 14”, an adjustable single rear shock, and under-seat storage. Another notable change is the new digital instrument panel that provides a lot of useful information. Want to bring a friend along? There's a separate seat and integrated footpegs for the rear passenger.

Unlike the 2-stroke Super 8 of years past, the 2015 KYMCO Super 8R Naked 50 uses the familiar 49.5cc, 4-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder engine that’s air-cooled, fed by a carburetor, and mated to a CVT. It comes with a kickstarter only. Output is rated at 3.7 hp, and you can expect to reach a top speed of 35 mph (55 km/hr) while achieving 90 mpg (2.6L/100km). The 5L tank is on par with competitors.

Pricing for the 2015 KYMCO Super 8R Naked 50 starts at $2,695 -- up just $100 from last year. Colour options include red and orange.