At a quick glance you might think you're looking at the Porsche-designed Harley-Davidson V-Rod. No, it's not. This is the Kymco Venox 250, a chrome laden 250cc machine clearly designed for those attracted to cool, laid-back cruisers.
This kind of motorcycle is as much about style and looks, which it has in abundance.
There is good demand for 250cc sized machines. Insurance, in this case Group 5, is by Irish standards less exorbitant. The 27.5 bhp power output suits those on restricted licences and the cost at €5,800 is more affordable.
We were really surprised when we rode this machine. It looks, feels and sounds like a larger bike. If looks matter to you, and this cruiser style appeals, then the Venox has it. When parked passers-by of all ages commented on it. Riding it, it felt "just right" in every department and with the engine pulling hard the exhaust note, a quiet burble at low speed, increased to a meaningful growl.
What really impressed us was the way this machine handles. It is absolutely vice free. The low seat height, well placed controls and forgiving nature would immediately inspire confidence. Steering is accurate and precise. Gear changes smooth and fault free with no false neutrals, the brakes are well up to the weight and performance, and the controls well-placed. The mirrors give a very good rearwards view.
One doesn't expect much by way of performance from a 250cc machine but this 8- valve, liquid-cooled DOHC V-twin engine is spirited. Acceleration is better than you would expect - a 60 mph cruising speed feels pleasant and unstressed and the legal limit well within the machine's capabilities.
Rider comfort, bearing in mind this is a "naked" machine, is very good. A comfortable seat, well placed handlebars and foot pegs and chunky hand grips all make for that "just right" feel. The rear suspension seemed a trifle on the hard side though we are sure this would improve with more miles on the clock - our test machine was straight from the crate.
It was hard to find a fault. The small-sized neutral and indicator warning lights are recessed into the alloy headstock, set in chrome mounts and are difficult to see in bright sunshine. Beyond that we could find no fault. This is not just an example of "driveway jewellery", it's a real motorcycle that's meant to be ridden and is a joy to ride.
Build quality seemed good in every respect. All the components are chunky and well made and free of flimsy short-cuts. For many, simply cleaning and polishing this machine would be a pleasure.
KYMCO built scooters were imported here a few years back by a motor dealer with no motorcycling background. They gave up on the idea, leaving owners with no back-up and machines which, in the Irish market, had severely depressed second-hand values.
Now KYMCO machines are being imported by a well-established dealer who can provide the kind of back-up service we have a right to expect.
If you're looking for a reasonably priced, good looking, stylish machine at a reasonable price, do take a close look at the Venox.
The importers are to be congratulated for including in the price three-hours of rider training for those who would appreciate it. Others please note!