Canadians now have a new maxi scooter to get excited about -- and not just because it's called Xciting 500 Ri. This machine is what Taiwan's Kwang Yang Motor Company (Kymco) believes will redefine the sport scooter segment.

The 2008 Kymco Xciting 500 Ri has many obvious qualities.

Market
At $7,995, the 2008 Xciting 500 Ri benefits from an enviable position in a market segment that continues to grow in Canada. It's a classic design intended for intermediate riders. Build quality, fit and finish leave little to be desired. However, given the size and weight of the scooter, smaller riders will have a tough time straddling it.

Frame
The Kymco Xciting 500 Ri is pretty interesting to look at. Beyond its classic lines, it projects a racy and aggressive look with a pair of red-colored air intakes near the turn signals. Designers also chose to incorporate red-painted brake callipers as a nod to premium sports cars. Clearly, the folks at Kymco understand how marketing works.

This scooter is built on a traditional steel frame. The front fork offers 110 millimeters of travel, while the four-position single shock in the back allows 100 millimeters of travel. You can further stiffen the rear suspension for two-up riding or when you want more rear-tire grip on slick pavement.

Dual front discs using two-piston callipers team up with a single rear disc to take care of stopping the scooter. Optimized coupling ensures solid braking performance. Handlebar tension and length are both adjustable, allowing riders of all shapes and sizes to feel at ease on this Kymco. The aluminum wheels (15 inches up front and 14 in the back) meet the standards for maxi scooters.

The Xciting 500 Ri weighs at least 215 kilograms. Therefore, extra effort is required to put the machine on its center stand. Fortunately, the side stand is quite easy to use.

Dual front discs using two-piston callipers team up with a single rear disc to take care of stopping the scooter.