Kymco Quannon 150 Unveiled

Taiwan-based Kymco unveiled three new products earlier this month at the International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, CA., including the Quannon 150. The air-cooled 149.3cc single-cylinder “sportbike” weighs 299 lbs and produces 14 hp allegedly allowing it to reach speeds of 72 mph. Speed is unlikely to be the main goal for beginners or commuters who purchase such a bike, but the claimed 70-75 mpg fuel efficiency will surely strike their fancy. As will the range of over 250 miles from the 3.6-gallon tank.

In order to truly challenge the venerable Kawasaki Ninja 250R as an entry-level sportbike, Kymco will offer the Quannon 150 at an MSRP of $3,449 – $550 cheaper than the Ninja 250R (the Ninja saw a $500 price bump this year).

Will the underdog newbie from Taiwan be able to take on the previously uncontested champ of the entry-level sportbike? While only time will tell for sure, my guess is that Kymco may take attract some buyers their way but we won’t be crowning a new champion anytime soon. Besides, a little competition will keep everyone on their toes – which is never a bad thing.

By Dustin Woods