Same displacement, different output
The Mongoose is motivated by a 249-cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. It generates 18 horsepower through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with reverse. While this combo won't give you all the power you need in tough situations, the fully automatic CVT makes the Mongoose accessible to everyone. The Raptor 250, meanwhile, is powered by a 249-cc single-cylinder engine featuring a 29-mm Mikuni BSR carburetor. The aluminum cylinder gets an antifriction ceramic compound coating, which allows quicker heat dissipation. We were surprised by the performance of this little mill; the powerband is strong and steady. It is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission that proves wonderfully pleasant to manipulate. In terms of pure power and acceleration, the Raptor 250 is clearly ahead of the Mongoose, which seems handicapped by its CVT.

The Raptor 250 is decidedly sportier than the Mongoose.

Contrasting features
As for the suspensions, both machines are equipped with a double-wishbone system featuring preload-adjustable front springs. The rear suspension uses a nitrogen-charged single shock offering a 195-mm ground clearance with the Raptor and 215 mm with the Mongoose. The Raptor's suspension is tuned for comfort, while the Mongoose's is much stiffer and delivers a solid quality feel. However, our test rides on bumpy trails yielded different results. While the Mongoose offers a firm ride and controlled bodyroll, we found it a bit too dry at times, which often made for steering imprecision. On the other hand, the more rigid suspension allows the Mongoose to easily accommodate heavy riders, which its Yamaha counterpart can't seem to be able to do.

The riding position of the Raptor has been developed to satisfy the most demanding sporty riders. The narrow seat, floorboard design and handlebars are a few examples of the Raptor's sporty character. For its part, the Mongoose offers a slightly higher riding position with a wider seat that proves more comfortable over long rides. While the riding position is more relaxed, Kymco's machine is still fiercely competitive when the occasion arises. With regards to the tires, the latter definitely has the edge, especially when exiting corners, thanks to its aggressively-treaded rubber with squared sidewalls.

Different suspension settings are partly responsible for the contrasting comfort levels.