Honda Activa 125: We all know this name; Activa and Indian two-wheelers are synonymous. Over the decades, it has gotten a reputation of being a reliable, fuel efficient, and user friendly bike.
But with the evolving times and the ever-increasing demand, Honda brought in the Activa 125 — a slightly more powerful and more premium version of the country’s favorite scooter.
If you are the kind who likes a sensible, daily commuter that looks a shade more classy and polished, the Activa 125 should be the sweet spot. Read on to find out what does this scooter offer and does it live up to the Activa lineage.
Honda Activa 125 Design: Subtle Yet Smart
And yet, the Activa 125 isn’t a headline snatcher – and that’s a good thing. With your modest, button-up-trousers look, it is accessible to a number of age groups from the young professional to the old duffer.
Frames are well contoured, all the side panels are sleek-looking, and the chrome accents give a touch of premium feel without being garish.
The LED headlamp at the front and signature LED position lights add to better visibility as well as a modern appeal. Mechanically it is rugged and the level of fit-finish is one of the best in the segment.
Operational: Quiet, Predicable and Reliable
Powering it is a 124cc fuel injected motor making 8.3 PS of power and 10.4 Nm of peak torque. On paper those might not sound absolutely mindblowing, but they make for easy buttery-smooth performance on the road.
It’s no speed demon, but for the typical urban rider, it offers a great mix of pickup and comfort.
With Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology and state of the art ACG starter, productivity-enhancing silent start feature, you don’t need to make a ruckus to start up the scooter.
It is even quite clear at higher revs, with vibrations barely audible. Pillion or a solo ride, the Activa 125 does daily duties in style.
Ride and Comfort: Honda Being Honda As Usual
Ride Quality Close your eyes, and the Activa 125 delivers a superb ride. The mix of telescopic front suspension and 3 step adjustable rear suspension ensure that pain from bumps isn’t transmitted to your back.
The scooter runs smooth on all types of bumpy or speed breaking roads without having to feel disturbed with the rider losing their balance.
The saddle is wide and well cushioned for longer commutes. A floorboard is large enough for groceries or a backpack.
And an external fuel filler cap provides an extra measure of convenience especially on those where you’re in a rush at the gas station.
Features and Practicality
The Activa 125 isn’t bombarded with gimmicks but does the basics bang on! A few of the highlights include:
Digital-analog instrument cluster with Real-time Mileage, Average fuel efficiency, Trip meter, Trip Fuelle Indicator, Provisions for displaying Low fuel warning, Clock & service due warning
Idling Stop System (top trim level) for greater fuel economy in city driving
Side-stand engine cut-off
LED headlamp & chrome accents
CBS (Combi-Brake System) with optional front disc brake
There’s also a decent size under-seat storage and a front hook for bags or tiffin carriers.
Mileage and Maintenance
The Activa 125 will give you a mileage of 50-55 km/l, and the mileage may vary according to your riding style and road conditions. And being a Honda, it further means low upkeep costs and a wide service network, both of which make life easier for first-time buyers and everyday riders.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Smooth and refined engine
Excellent build quality
An easy ride with telescopic suspension
Decent fuel economy for a 125cc scooter
Useful things like silent start and digital display
Reliable and easy to maintain
Cons:
Design is perhaps too conservative for some
Not as loaded as competitors such as TVS Ntorq or Suzuki Access 125
Top-end variant is bit expensive
No Blue-tooth, or phone charging port
Not as much underseat storage space as some competitors
Honda Activa 125 Final Verdict
But if you want the trust and convenience of an Activa and just a little bit of extra punch and comfort, the Honda Activa 125 is the one to have.
It doesn’t make too much of an effort to impress, but the strong refinement, ride quality and deceptively low running costs make it a real contender in the 125cc class.
