At $6,995, the Xciting 500Ri is worth it, a larger displacement scooter as they should be, with a higher level of performance, balanced road dynamics and aggressive brakes – a real player in this category.

You can easily sport the extra length and space of the 500Ri, a much more spacious machine than a 50 or even 150cc machine. (Photo: Philippe Champouc/Moto123.com)

Classic looks
The 500Ri projects a classic, rather sober style, allied with excellent component and fit and finish. The elongated seat sets the tone, and the headlights add a touch of slenderness to the overall allure. Of the three available colours, metallic grey, black or white, the latter gives it a distinctly contemporary flair.

Limited overall storage space
The elongated seat decreases the available storage space, as only similar shaped objects can fit in it. This means a Top case if you wish to stow one or two Full-face helmets. Kymco thought about you cell phone addicts out there, fitting a cradle and a 12-volt outlet under the seat. And the engineers also thought to include two practical smaller storage compartments, one in front of the seat and a second, locking one to the left of the handlebars. The gas filler cap, built into the dash, minimizes the danger of any impromptu spills.

Generous riding position for the average-sized person
I liked this big scooter’s riding position. You feel comfortable from the get-go. The machine’s 200 kilos aren’t unwieldy, even though the centre kickstand requires a little extra effort. The seat seems a tad too large to me, forcing me to spread my legs when stopped, and only the tips of my toes could touch the ground. But then again, I’d rather be comfortable than simply have both my feet planted on the ground. The layout of the floor pan allows you to position your feet according to the conditions. In the city, I prefer a nice straight riding position with my feet flat on the lower floorboard, ideal for defensive manoeuvres, while on a road trip I like to rest my feet on the rising portion at the front of the floorboard.

The positioning of the handlebars and the accessible controls make it easy to control the scooter at all times. In a nutshell, the Xciting 500Ri’s ergonomics are perfectly suited to my body type and riding style.

Our average-build test rider could either set his feet flat on the floor to play in the corners, or lean back and set his feet on the raised portion for comfortable cruising. (Photo: Philippe Champouc/Moto123.com)