Today, even cars with a purely urban vocation ape SUVs and adopt the look of adventurers.
After Honda’s offensive with its X-ADV 750 and ADV 350, and the arrival of Aprilia’s little SR GT 125, the world of scooters is getting up to speed by offering “crossover” models: Kymco is launching in turn the DTX 360, with the commercial promise of “take the road whatever the path”.
However, there is no need to take out the offroad boots or the stone guard, it is above all the urban adventure that the Taiwanese lends itself to. Its mixed tires, its hand guards and its overall appearance leave a slight doubt, but the machine is not one to throw in the ruts.
The DTX 360 is therefore to be placed in the category of maxi-scooters “simply” original and rewarding.
Its name calls out: its numbering corresponds to 360°, to imply that it can go anywhere. But it’s abouta 350 version, with a 321 cc engine. Those who still follow will be delighted to learn that the DTX 360 is also available, without aesthetic distinction, in 125 cc version.
With the “big” 28 hp engine, equipped with the switchable TCS traction control systemits performance gives it great versatility, with the possibility of easily reaching (and exceeding) 130 km/h.
At this speed, we can only see a perfect lack of protection, due to a fixed, decorative mini windscreen. The optional GT windshield (150 €) should sell very well, especially in winter!
At the handlebars of this scooter taking up the technical basis of the Downtown, the times seem frank and, for the fun side, the rather discreet exhaust sometimes lets out a few small explosions. But they are fortunately not loud enough to alert the neighborhood.
The grip is easy, the position pleasant. But the saddle, too firm, does not pamper a buttocks already frankly subdued by dry cushioning, worthy of a skateboard. The definitely uncomfortable DTX takes your breath away with every pothole. The rear preload can be adjusted, but it requires a tool.
We also regret a slightly excessive biting of the rear brake, which composes with a ticklish ABS. In the absence of coupled braking, it is therefore better to operate the two levers, with an effective and reassuring front brake.
Finally, to close the critical part, we note vibrations felt when stationary, at the Red light. Not enough to bare your teeth, far from it, but some competing models filter them much better.
If he bets a lot on his appearance, this DTX made in taiwan do not neglect the practical aspects.
It thus benefits from very readable and complete digital instrumentation (tachometer, speed, clock, trip, fuel gauge, engine temperature and battery voltage) anda small glove box (not lockable) equipped with a USB port, for recharging a smartphone.
A second USB port, at the level of the handlebar, can also be used to wire a mobile GPS. The DTX, placed on its side or central crutches (easy to deploy), introduces a new “hands-free” system, to start with the key in your pocket.
Its rotary selector also makes it possible to operate the fuel flap, block the steering and open the trunk. There, under the saddle held by a hydraulic cylinder, in this practical and well-lit accommodation, a full-face helmet and a jet helmet can be stored.
Guaranteed for five years, as with Honda, the Kymco DTX 360 can rely on a large distribution network (291 dealerships in France). It is displayed from €4,799 in the 125 cc version, and €5,699 in the 350 cc. Or 600 € less than a Honda ADV 350, its natural rival which is produced in Spain.
Kymco DTX 360 test: our opinion
If it suffers from too firm damping, the DTX 360 flatters the retina and is pleasant. Quite well placed on the price side, it does not neglect the practical aspects and also benefits from good mechanics. Enough to find a place in the emerging segment of crossover scooters.
WE love
- Ease of handling
- Safe and practical aspects
- Handling and performance
We love less
- Very firm suspension
- Rear brake
- Screen protection as standard
Kymco DTX 360 : les options
- Support GPS : 60 €
- GT windscreen: €150
- Support de top-case : 85 €
Kymco DTX 360: technical sheet
- Engine: single cylinder, liquid cooled, 4 valves, 321 cc3
- Transmission: belt, variator
- Power (hp @ rpm): 28.2 @ 7,500
- Torque (Nm at rpm): 29.3 at 5,750
- Weight (kg): 194
- Long.xlarg. (mm) : 2 165×780
- Wheelbase (mm): 1550
- Height of cell (mm): 785
- Ground clearance (mm): 180
- Tank (l): 12.5
- Front brakes: ABS, 260 mm single disc, 3-piston caliper
- Rear brakes: ABS, 220mm single disc, 2-piston caliper
- Tires AV-AR: 120/80 R 14 – 150/70 R 13
- Cons. average: 3.7 l/100 km*
- CO2 (g/km): 87 *
- Warranty: 5 years
- Country of production: Taiwan
- Price: from €5,699
* manufacturer data
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