I have been using the Honda Activa for close to 3 years now, and feel it is time that I write a review for that.
*Build and engine:
The scooter is a full metal body one and hence any dents or scratches can be easily fixed. The paint job is really good with high gloss. The plastics and other rubber accessories are also good if not excellent. The mirrors are a sore point here though.If you are a bit on the taller side( say beyond 5’10’) then you will face problems with the angle of the mirror( even after adjusting them).
The switch gear is just about average and can be better.
The underseat space is good for stoving away a full size helmet or vegetables from the market.
Honda is the largest engine maker in the world and also make the best petrol/gasoline engines on the planet. The Activa’s engine is not only refined and smoothe but is responsive as well. The variomatic transmission is a real blessing for all those who commute to work in heavy stop and go traffic.
*Ride and Handling:
*You cannot expect a scooter to handle more like a motorcycle, but the Activa fares better than most of the non-greared two wheelers in the market. You can lean into corners and coupled with the higher ground clearance can be confident while driving pillion as well( Remeber the Kinetic honda underpinings scraping the speed breakers). Accelarating from a stand still or while overtaking is a breeze, the only let down are the brakes. THe braking somehow doesn’t instill confidence and fade fast when used heavily.
The front suspension is also not very robust and doesn’t damp any potholes( or are they craters?) well. The over all suspension is a bit on the stiffer side(riders small built will definitely notice this).
The Healight is not very bright and you need to get used to it for night driving.
*Other notiecable traits
*The silencer tends to rust over a period of time and I guess is more of a manufacturing/ material fault. You have to learn to use the choke in the right amount for the scooter to start on a cold morning. If you are tall and want to ride pillion, be ready for sore legs as the foot pegs are not very conveniently placed.
*Fuel Average and maintenance:
You will definitely get around 50 Km per liter of Petrol if you use the throttle judiciously. Remember to change the engine oil in regular intervals and there shouldn’t be any problems.
*Do remember that getting the scooter( or any vehicle for that matter) serviced by a capable mechanic/garage is as important as a good driving style.
*Conclusion:
*No product is perfect and Activa is not an exception, if you are looking for a decent scooter to get you from point A to point B without any hassels then you definitely can go for it.
THe after sales service is something that needs to be looked at by HMSCI LTD. Guess just having big bucks and a shop on the main road should not be the major factors for getting a dealership.
*PS: I am not a professional bike/car tester and I am writing this article for a common user/ layman. If someone needs any clarification regarding specifications and technical details please use the internet than bothering me.
Thanks.