LONG TERMER: Kymco 360-320

Jonathan Schofield (Jono) has covered over 2500 miles now on the scooter. Here’s how he’s getting on…

‘Absence makes the heart grow fonder.’ I’ve always thought that was a funny phrase; in this modern world of constant connectivity, You’re never more than a call away from the ones you miss. That’s not so easy when the one you miss is a scooter.

I’ve been without the DT360X for a couple of weeks now. It was whisked away to be serviced and have some new rubber fitted, and I’ve been eagerly anticipating a message from the good folks at Kymco to say it’s on its way back to me. The slightly naff weather has eased the blow, and I have been thinking how wet I’m not getting at the moment – but on those occasional dry days I am dreaming of the DTX. There’s a lot still to do with it, after all; including my run-it-until-it-stops fuel test. a favourite of mine.

Before it was abducted for its session of fluid exchange and nipple tweaking, I realised that the rear tyre was getting very close to the legal limit. I thought that was a bit weird, because I’ve only done just over two-and-a-half thousand miles. Sure, some of those have been off-road, but there’ve been a couple of motorway runs and lots and lots of backlane commuting action. Is that the norm for Kymco’s crossover scooter? Instead of the factory-supplied, semi off-road, CST knobblies, would it be worth splashing out on something a little more ‘premium’? I guess we’ll find out as I’ve asked for some slightly more road-focused Michelins. To be fair, the CSTs have been a good all-round tyre, and I have never felt like they might let me down or move underneath me mid-corner (even when two-up). They have also handled the odd off-road excursion, too. It is great to be able to mix up the route now and again, and with the extra ground clearance and super-smooth throttle and power delivery, I’ve felt confident getting out and exploring. 

I’m willing the phone to ring. My fingers are crossed, my riding gear is ready. Hey Kymco, don’t keep me waiting too long, please.

Jonathan Schofield / 2611 miles / £5299 /www.kymco.co.uk