Honda Activa 125 review, test ride

Ergonomics are spot on too; the Activa 125 seating its rider comfortably in a scooter typical upright riding position on a well padded, broad saddle, with handlebar well located, never fouling with a rider’s knees, not even when negotiating slower, sharp corners. The Activa 125 comes with up-market five-spoke alloy rims, a pair of telescopic forks (sorely missed on all earlier Activas) as front suspension and single rear shock absorber, with engine doubling up as the frame swinging arm at rear. Ride quality is plush and comfortable, still not bouncy. Our top of the line test Activa 125 included a 190mm front disc brake, and 130mm drum brake at rear. The brakes are a highlight on this new Honda 125, working with clearly superior feel to any other Indian scooter. There’s urgent and strong bite, Honda’s combined brakes (CBS) working flawlessly to prove a valuable riding aid, more so for novice riders. The Activa 125 comes with nice tyres, by MRF, a larger 12 inch front wheel aiding quick, light turn-in to corners, while there’s a more scooter typical 10 inch rim at rear.

We’re still to complete more thorough fuel efficiency tests on the Activa 125, but initial, quick feedback has us pleasantly surprised to see the scooter is capable of 40-45kpl, close to what was offered by the smaller capacity Activa scooters.

Yes, the Activa 125 is a worthy successor to the earlier models and our ride confirms the 125 hits a sweet spot. The Activa 125 feels a premium product from the moment you sit on it, every bit a smooth and refined Honda scooter, with significantly improved performance. We’re convinced the 125 will bolster and further the Activa success story, a clear segment leader straight from the word go.

Expect the 125 to cement the Activa’s world best-selling scooter position, rising to earn its very own loyal fan-following. Putting it very clearly, the Activa 125 steps in as the best scooter sold in India today.

Rishad Cooper