Kymco Xciting 500
The Kymco Xciting 500 has a top speed of 155 km/h, produces 35 hp and weighs 218 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The KYMCO Xciting 500 was introduced in 2005 as one of the first large-displacement maxi-scooters from a Taiwanese manufacturer, competing directly with European rivals like the Yamaha TMAX. It was notable for offering 500cc performance at a significantly lower price point, helping establish KYMCO as a serious player in the premium scooter segment. The model ran through several updates until around 2012, when it was eventually succeeded by the Xciting 400i.
35 hp
Power
41 Nm
Torque
218 kg
Weight
155 km/h
Top Speed
4.5 L/100km (approximately 22 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Solid Engine Longevity
The 498cc parallel-twin engine is known for strong reliability when maintained properly, often reaching 50,000+ km with regular oil changes. It shares DNA with Honda-influenced designs, contributing to its reputation for durability.
Watch the CVT Belt
The continuously variable transmission belt is a known wear item that should be inspected every 10,000–15,000 km and replaced as needed. Neglected belts can cause sudden power loss, so always check service history before buying used.
Modest Resale Value
As a Taiwanese brand, KYMCO scooters depreciate faster than Japanese competitors like Honda or Yamaha, which can make used examples excellent value for budget buyers. However, expect lower returns if you plan to resell later.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original 499cc parallel-twin engine, conventional forks, analog-digital dash, launched as flagship KYMCO scooter.
"Taiwan's maxi-scooter that punched above its price tag."
The Xciting 500 surprised me the first time I wrung it out on a motorway ramp — 35 horses from that single-cylinder DOHC unit pulled harder than the spec sheet suggested, and it would sit comfortably at 130 km/h all day without feeling strained. The conventional forks aren't particularly sophisticated and you'll feel every expansion joint on a B-road, but the low 760mm seat and wide floorboards make it genuinely relaxed for city commuting and weekend touring. Build quality was the honest weak point — switchgear felt plasticky compared to a Honda Forza or even Yamaha TMAX of the era, and the engine could get heat-soaky in slow traffic, cooking your right ankle on a hot day. For the money though — often two-thirds the price of a comparable Japanese maxi-scooter — KYMCO delivered something most commuters would actually enjoy living with.
Pros
Cons
Replaced by 399cc single-cylinder fuel-injected engine, new chassis, ABS available, updated bodywork.
Used Buyer Review
"Underrated maxi-scooter that rewards buyers who do homework."
$2,500-$5,500 usedThe Xciting 500 is one of those bikes that quietly overdelivers. For a Taiwanese maxi-scooter going up against the T-Max and Burgman, it holds its own surprisingly well. The 499cc parallel-twin pulls cleanly from low revs, highway cruising at 70mph feels relaxed, and the underseat storage is genuinely useful. Build quality is solid rather than exceptional — nothing falls apart, but you won't mistake it for Japanese or Italian fit-and-finish. Used examples need scrutiny around the CVT belt and rollers — neglected service intervals kill them quietly. Check the front forks for leaks and inspect the brake fluid, as these often sit unused for stretches. The ABS version is worth hunting for specifically. On a used budget, this thing makes real sense. Parts availability has improved, and independent scooter shops generally know them well now. Don't expect sports-bike thrills, but for commuting and weekend touring under 200 miles, it's genuinely competent and surprisingly fun.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Kymco Xciting 500 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
Look under engine for coolant stains or residue
Listen for slipping or shudder during acceleration
Test for rough idle and hesitation at low RPM
Bounce test rear end, check for oil leaks on shock
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Decent scooter, maintenance-dependent, parts availability fair
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Kymco Xciting 500
Kymco Ak 550
Kymco Xciting S 400
Kymco Xciting 400
Piaggio X10 500
Piaggio Beverly 500
Compare Kymco Xciting 500 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Kymco Xciting 500 vs Kymco Ak 550
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kymco Xciting 500 vs Kymco Xciting S 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kymco Xciting 500 vs Kymco Xciting 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kymco Xciting 500 vs Piaggio X10 500
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Kymco Xciting 500 vs Piaggio Beverly 500
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Kymco Xciting 500 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Kymco Xciting 500? +
Coolant leaks from water pump seal: Look under engine for coolant stains or residue (moderate) | CVT belt and roller wear: Listen for slipping or shudder during acceleration (moderate) | Fuel injector clogging on older units: Test for rough idle and hesitation at low RPM (moderate)
Is the Kymco Xciting 500 a good motorcycle? +
Underrated maxi-scooter that rewards buyers who do homework. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Commuters wanting practical, affordable maxi-scooter touring. Avoid if: You want sporty handling or premium brand prestige.
What is the horsepower of the Kymco Xciting 500? +
The Kymco Xciting 500 produces 35 hp @ 7,500 rpm, with 41 Nm @ 6,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 155 km/h.
Is the Kymco Xciting 500 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Kymco Xciting 500 is a reasonable choice for new riders (35 hp is manageable), weighing 218 kg. Commuters wanting practical, affordable maxi-scooter touring
Is the Kymco Xciting 500 reliable? +
The Kymco Xciting 500 has no widely-reported critical reliability issues. 4 minor issues are documented — see the Common Problems section above.
Is the Kymco Xciting 500 good for daily use? +
Commuters wanting practical, affordable maxi-scooter touring Fuel: 4.5 L/100km (approximately 22 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Kymco Xciting 500? +
The Kymco Xciting 500 reaches a top speed of 155 km/h, producing 35 hp at 218 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Kymco Xciting 500? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Kymco Xciting 500, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/kymco/xciting-500/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
