2020 SYM VF3i 185 LE: First Impression

MForce Bike Holdings, the official distributor of SYM bikes in Malaysia, has launched the 2020 SYM VF3i 185 LE in the country. Priced at RM 9,338, this supercub is RM 1,000 more expensive than the standard model. The all-new VF3i 185 is now available at all company dealerships and comes with 20,000 km or 2-year manufacturing warranty.

Model	Price
2020 SYM VF3i 185 LE	RM 9,338

 

What’s new? - Styling, comfort, and safety

Wondering what the name VF3i 185 LE stands for? Well, LE represents the limited-edition nature of the model, while VFi3 symbolises the production variant. The company will produce a total of 5,000 units of the supercub. Setting it apart from the standard model is its grey paint job and distinctive apple green graphics. Further, it also gets green accents on the wheels and a small flyscreen.

Another noticeable enhancement is the inclusion of the Anit-Lock Braking System in the VF3i’s braking system. Also, it’s first in its class as - 230 mm front disc and 200 mm rear. Other upgrades over the previous model include-

• Bright LED DRL lights
• LED taillight that makes it easily visible in any condition
• Adjustable clutch and brake levers
• Revised instrument panel which now showcases a stylish design and display information like engine temperature, engine oil check,
• Anti-Lock Braking System, clock battery power

In all the other aspects, the SYM VF3i 185 LE remains the same. It stands on the same 17-inch wheels wrapped in 90/80 front and 120/70 rear tyres. It weighs 124 kg, carries fuel in its 7-litre tank, and has an engine with Euro 3 certification. Also, the wheelbase and ground clearance remains identical at 150 mm and 1,290 mm, respectively. Therefore, like its mate, the LE model will take on rough patches with ease.

Mechanicals

Apart from the cosmetic changes, the new SYM VF3i 185 LEs’ most significant modification is found inside its 183cc liquid-cooled SOHC powertrain. The engine’s throttle body is up by 30 mm from the previous 28 mm. Also, the head, counter balance exhaust, and shaft allow the VF3i LE to generate 19.7 hp at 9,000 rpm and 17.4 Nm at 7,500 rpm. In comparison, the standard model makes 17.7 hp and 16.67 Nm of torque.

Attributes	Details
Displacement	183 cc
Type	SOHC, 4 stroke, Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
Max Power	19.7 hp
Max Torque	17.4 Nm
Fuel System	Electronic Fuel Injection
Lubrication System	Forced Circulation and Splashing
Clutch Type	Wet Multi Disc Clutch
Ignition	Full Transistor Ignition
Starter	Electric

Verdict and Competitors

In Malaysia, the 2020 SYM VF3i 185 will take on the likes of the Yamaha 135 LC Super Sport, Benelli RSF 150i, and Honda EX5. From what it seems, the limited-edition version of the VF3i is a pretty decent offering, and with all the inclusions (styling and mechanical), it surely has the added benefit. This supercub offers all the features, or even more, one would expect at the given price point. Though we haven’t got the chance to ride it, we are sure it’ll do its job perfectly while being fun and fuel-efficient at the same time.

Also Read: 2020 SYM VF3i gets four new color options