Honda Navi review, test ride

Before images of the fictional moon Pandora begin to float through your mind, let me just tell you that Honda has no intention of creating big blue humanoids anytime soon. There sure is that shared rebellious streak, but this Navi is of the mechanical kind. Honda's newest fledgling comes in the form of a motorcycle-scooter crossover that derives inspiration from the Grom – the 125cc larger sibling of the Navi. And even though the Navi has been toned down in more ways than one, it has managed to create a sensational amount of hype in the Indian motorcycling scene in recent times.

More often than not, it's the brave that are rewarded for venturing into avenues that have remained unexplored. Honda has taken a bold step forward and presented us with a generous serving of fresh perspective. The Navi could bring about a pleasant and welcome change in the current commuter scene. With its quirky design formula and potential for customisation, the Navi could definitely appeal to customers beyond the commuter realm; a gateway motorcycle for those inclined to the two-wheeled rush, perhaps.

At first glance, the Navi seems to display all the tell-tale signs of a full-blown motorcycle. The upright stance, the handlebars, a nice sculpted tank, exposed telescopic forks, a cavernous hole where the engine should be. Wait, what? Strange as it may appear, the Navi is equipped with Honda's Activa engine, which in essence is a scooter engine that sits towards the bottom rear end of the motorcycle. This is why there's a gaping hole where the engine should have been. However, this space can be used to store a luggage bin. As you approach the Navi, you'll soon start to soak in its deceptively diminutive proportions. Technically, it holds almost the same dimensions as the Activa, with a slightly longer wheelbase, but still manages to shave off about 7kg.