Honda Activa

The new Activa retains classic elements seen on its predecessor, it uses a repair-friendly sheet metal cloak for most of its body. There’s more than a hint of the Aviator in the multi-panel front apron, which comes embellished with neat pseudo vents. The halogen bulb housing headlight enables the new Activa to provide decent illumination at night. The standard instruments are bold, clearly legible, and with a fuel gauge inset at 6 o’clock within the large 120kph calibrated speedometer. The new scooter uses switchgear, levers, grips and mirrors identical to those found on the old Activa. While Honda provided us with the base model Activa for this test, we are given to understand the top-end variant gets a tamper-proof safety shutter that safeguards its ignition slot. However, a front storage bin is only offered with the upmarket version; we did appreciate the new scooter’s enhanced, 18-litre underseat storage bay. The new Activa has a wide floorboard, which tapers back to meet its pair of pillion footrests. A handy bag hook is provided in this region and from here a set of sleek rear body panels swoop upwards to culminate in an attractive tail. The new Activa dumps its spare wheel in favour of a new alloy grab bar. It’s a pity Honda has not fitted alloy rims as also the convenience of a front fuel-filling pod. The Activa does however have a built-to-last feel, amazing quality and the typical Honda fit and finish.