Exhaust system: "Tecnigas Next R" (Honda Dio / Kymco ZX)

The "Tecnigas Next R" is one of the most popular sport exhausts for 50cc and 70cc "Sport" class engines. It is an excellent choice if you want to increase engine power while keeping the noise level relatively moderate, and it offers great value for its performance.

This exhaust is designed for the "Honda Dio" (AF18/AF27/AF28) and the "Kymco ZX" (with vertical engines), which are technically very similar.

Key characteristics

• Performance: The "Next R" gives a noticeable power gain across the whole rev range, especially under acceleration (in the "mid" revs).

• Versatility: Although this exhaust works very well with a standard 50cc cylinder, it really "comes alive" with 70cc "Sport" class cylinders (e.g. Malossi Sport, Polini Corsa, Naraku).

• Construction: The exhaust pipe is made of steel, while the silencer can (the "end can") is usually made of polished aluminium or carbon fibre (carbon), which gives it an attractive look.

Expert tips: fitting and tuning

1. Carburettor tuning (ESSENTIAL): Once a sport exhaust is fitted, more air mixture flows through the engine, so you must fit a larger carburettor main jet. If you do not, the engine will run lean, overheat and may "seize".

2. Transmission tuning: To make the most of the "Next R", the factory variator rollers will be too heavy. We recommend fitting lighter variator rollers and possibly slightly stiffer clutch springs, so the engine reaches its optimum revs more quickly.

3. Sealing: Use a new exhaust gasket at the cylinder flange. If the joint leaks, the engine will lose power and the sound will be "metallic" and annoying.

4. Maintenance: "Tecnigas" exhausts are prone to rust if they are unpainted (steel). If the exhaust has no protective lacquer or paint, we recommend spraying it with heat-resistant paint to prevent corrosion.

Technical specifications

Feature	Detail
Manufacturer	Tecnigas
Model	Next R
Compatibility	Honda Dio (AF18, 27, 28) / Kymco ZX
Type	Sport (expansion chamber)
Noise level	Medium (meets sport standards)

FAQ: frequently asked questions

Will I need to make changes to the engine?

As mentioned, you must re-jet the carburettor (larger main jet) and retune the transmission (lighter rollers). This is not a "plug-and-play" part that will work perfectly with factory settings.

Is this exhaust road legal?

Most "Next R" models carry an E-mark, but to achieve maximum power the "restrictor" (a narrow sleeve at the cylinder flange) is often removed. With the restrictor removed, the exhaust becomes a "sport" exhaust and technically no longer meets road standards.

How does the "Next R" differ from cheaper Chinese-made "sport" exhausts?

"Tecnigas" is a properly engineered product. Its shape (the "bulge") is designed to do resonance work ("back pressure") that genuinely increases power. Cheaper copies are often just "pretty pipes" that may even reduce power compared with the original.

The "Tecnigas Next R" is the perfect middle ground, giving your Honda Dio or Kymco ZX the extra power it lacks in everyday riding.