Enter the Kriss successor

AFTER 13 years, Modenas has finally come out with the replacement for its number one moped, Kriss.

The CT110 uses a new chassis and body, but with an updated 111cc 4-stroke SOHC single engine from the Kriss.

The two engines have the same power output (8.8hp), but while the Kriss engine was designed to last 10 years, the CT's updated engine should go for 15.

Modenas invited us to have a go at the CT110 on the new Ayer Keroh go-kart/kaprix track.

A few laps around the tight track proved the moped's nimbleness.

"We gave it a shorter rake so that the steering is quicker," said Bastamam Hamzah, Modenas' new CEO.

Compared with the Kriss, the CT felt smoother and there was enough torque to pull this heavy writer out of a turn.

The first two gear ratios are designed for better acceleration while the other two are for top end performance and economy.

Unfortunately, the gap between the second and the third proved to be big, which made it easy to experience wheel hops while downshifting from third to second without slowing down.

The brakes (front disc with rear drums) were adequate.

Overall, this a good one from Modenas. Good looks and rightly priced (RM3,888 for kick start and RM4,188 for the electric start), Modenas is hoping the CT110 can boost its market share from 10 to 15 per cent next year.

By Hezeri Samsuri