Kymco have their sights set on a slice of the inter-city commuter market with their new three-wheeled CV3 scooter, a machine which can be ridden on a car licence. Powered by the same 51bhp 550.4cc parallel twin as the Taiwanese firm’s AK550 scooter and AK550 Premium maxi scooters, it’s capable of a claimed 105mph and can be locked upright at a standstill for easier parking and stability at the lights. Featuring two 13in alloy front rims bolted to a four-forked leaning suspension system, the CV3 offers the wheel spacing required for drivers to hop aboard without a bike licence – providing they passed their test before 2013. The locking system is controlled via the right switchgear and can be deactivated manually, or automatically once riding.
Once you are rolling, the CV3 is capable
of a claimed 40 degrees of lean and also qualifies for London’s Ultra-Low
Emission Zone (ULEZ) regs. Going up against rivals such as the £ 11,500 Piaggio
MP3 Exclusive 530, the Kymco provides an alternative to public transport for
commuting and is set to arrive in dealers at the start of 2023. The 265kg (dry)
twist-and-go machine features premium touches such as cruise control, keyless
ignition, LED lighting and a six-inch TFT dash – with an audible bleep sounding
once the indicators are activated. You even get a progressive foot brake pedal
that applies the anchors on all three ABS-equipped wheels.
