MODA has arrived in Malaysian showrooms, marking an exciting new addition to the 250cc scooter market.
The Moda Sporter-S 250 is distributed by Mdua Motors Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of AFY Mobility Industries (AMI) which is involved in the assembly and distribution of Suzuki motorcycles in Malaysia.
Going up against rivals like the Yamaha X-Max 250, Honda NSS250 and WMoto RT2 250, the Sporter-S 250 promises a mix of performance, practicality and modern conveniences.
Aligning with global trends in stylish and compact scooters, the scooter is an original design crafted by none other than Yacouba Galle, the renowned French designer behind Yacouba Studios.
The Sporter-S 250 boasts a sporty and aggressive aesthetic, highlighted by sharp body lines and integrated LED lighting.
The front turn signals, smartly embedded in the wing mirrors, give the scooter a sleek, premium look, while the manually adjustable windshield adds practicality for varying rider preferences.
The 6.2-inch TFT-LCD display stands out as a modern touch, offering Bluetooth connectivity via the Moda Car Bit app for smartphone integration.
The Sporter-S 250 also has 13 litres of underseat storage space and additional compartments in the front cowl, making it suitable for light trips.
The backlit handlebar switches and keyless start further enhance the premium feel, while details like span-adjustable brake levers and traction control cater to rider comfort and safety.
The Sporter-S 250’s 244cc Euro 4 compliant single-cylinder engine produces 24.8hp at 8,500rpm and 22.5Nm of torque at 6,500rpm.
The power delivery is smooth and adequate for highway cruising, with enough punch to comfortably maintain speeds above 110kph.
The manually adjustable windshield helps reduce wind buffeting during long rides, enhancing rider comfort.
However, at 186kg, the scooter feels slightly heavy, particularly when overtaking or handling strong crosswinds.
While it’s stable at high speeds, it doesn’t feel as nimble as some of its lighter competitors.
For urban riders, the Sporter-S 250 excels with its practical features.
The keyless start, remote seat and fuel opening, and USB charging port make daily commutes effortless.
The responsive throttle and manageable size allow the scooter to weave through traffic confidently, though the heftier weight might be noticeable during low-speed manoeuvres or frequent stops.
Its 15-inch front and 14-inch rear wheels provide good stability over uneven road surfaces, while the 165 mm ground clearance ensures that bumps and potholes are not a concern.
With its integrated smartphone connectivity, riders can conveniently monitor essential ride data, making it an ideal choice for tech-savvy city commuters.
On twisty roads, the Sporter-S 250 showcases decent handling for a scooter in its segment.
The upside-down front forks and preload-adjustable rear shocks give it a well-balanced ride, capable of tackling corners with confidence.
The suspension setup leans toward a slightly firmer side, which benefits spirited riding but might feel a tad harsh over rough surfaces.
The wheelbase of 1,538 mm provides stability in corners.
Still, the Sporter-S 250 strikes a commendable balance between stability and comfort, making it suitable for a variety of road conditions.
The dual front 260mm discs and single rear 240mm disc, paired with a standard two-channel ABS, deliver reliable and confident stopping power.
The braking feel is progressive, and the span-adjustable levers allow riders to fine-tune the lever distance for a more personalised fit.
For highway riders, the ABS ensures stability even during sudden braking at high speeds, while in the city, the brakes are precise enough to handle stop-and-go traffic efficiently.
The suspension system is another standout feature and absorbs most road imperfections effectively, while the rear double-adjustable shocks allow riders to tweak the setup for varying loads.
However, riders seeking a plush ride may find the suspension slightly firm, especially on bumpy roads.
The seat is wide and well-cushioned, offering good support for long rides.
Combined with the adjustable windshield, these features make the Sporter-S a comfortable option for both commuting and occasional weekend touring.
The 13-litre fuel tank is generous for its class, providing a range that easily exceeds 250 km on a single fill, depending on riding conditions.
The tyre pressure monitoring system and 6.2-inch TFT display further add to the convenience, ensuring the rider is always informed about critical aspects of the scooter’s performance.
The Sporter-S 250 is a feature-rich modern scooter that caters to both tech-savvy urban commuters and weekend highway riders.
The RM17,888 scooter carves out a niche with its blend of affordability, technology and comfort.
SPECIFICATIONS
Moda Sporter-S 250
Engine: 244cc, liquid cooled, 4 valves, single cylinder, SOHC
Maximum power: 24.8hp at 8,500rpm
Maximum torque: 22.5Nm at 6,500rpm
Suspension: Front inverted telescopic fork; rear double adjustable shocks
Brakes: Front 260mm double floating discs, ABS; rear 240mm, single disc ABS
Features: Traction control, keyless smart key, 6.2 inch TFT screen, tyre pressure monitoring system, smart phone integration, adjustable windshield, USB port
Fuel capacity: 13 litres
Wet weight: 186 kg
Price: RM17,888 (without registration and insurance)
