THOUGHT OF BUYING A 125 cc BIKE
It was a great dilemma about which bike to go for, as there were many strong contenders in the 125 cc segment (victor GLX, bajaj discover, Yamaha Fazer). Bajaj was doing strong publicity campaign for discover those days (remember those Jackie chan ads…).
Fazer was never my type. Not an evergreen design. There were chances of getting bored after few months, from those bug shaped headlamps and strange carrier-type thing on the rear.
Why not discover?
It had so many technologies built into a single machine (dtsi, exhustec, cdi, ride control, whatever..), that I was hesitant of buying this whole research lab on two wheels.
So far as appearance is concerned, for first time looker, discover gives impression of a 100 cc. Its squeezed tank, smaller wheels, thin seat cushion, slim pointed tail assembly makes it look like a better looking 100 cc. Also, I found its dealer to be too busy, they hardly had time to give an ear to customers. This left me doubtful about the quality of after sales services.
Why GLX?
From the beginning, I was bent on Victor GLX, as it appealed me a lot in the first sight. Dealers appeared cooperative. It impressed me in the test drive. It made a space in my heart. Also, TVS carries a reputation of bringing out only quality products. So I went for it. Now after owning it for six months, and running it for 3000 kms, I have come out with following observations.
LOOKS: It is stylish, at same time its not flashy. It looks well built, at same time doesn’t look bulky. The zig-zag decals in nice color combinations make it an eye-catcher. I have got a rare red color, with white and golden decals. I have noticed many fellow roadsters staring at my bike.
RIDE and COMFORT: Superb. Suspension is very comfortable. You wont mind riding even on worst of the roads. Seat has enough cushion (this is what the discover lacks), which matters a lot on the longer drives.
PERFORMANCE: Its an optimum combination of power and efficiency. I find its 10 bhp to be quite enough. I’ve taken it comfortably to 90+ at times. I don’t do it very often as I love my bike and want it to serve me for years. Discover claims 11.5 bhp, but remember, whatever company claims, but power always takes toll on fuel efficiency.
MILAGE: Gave me 50 in the beginning, but to my nightmare went down to 40. But it was diagnosed that someone had played with its carburetor screw. It was restored and thereafter is giving me a consistent 55+, that too on conjusted raods of north delhi. Gave me 60+ once when I went to ghaziabad
ENGINE and TRANSMISSION: Engine is noiseless and smooth. Trouble-less gear-shifting.
ELECTRICALS: Horn is OK. Lights are very good. You can see its high-beam piercing the dark. Too good for a two-wheeler.
CONS: Starting in morning is a problem with all TVS bikes. While other bikers just kick and go, I have to pull the choke for a few secs, to warm the engine before putting it into gear (while pillion keeps saying CHALAA NA YAAR... ). But I don’t mind this few second’s trouble, as far as it is serving me good, otherwise.