Honda Activa was my first ever 2 wheeler. I bought it(Second Hand, silver colour) on 2008 after being used for 10000 Kms(2006 Model). Just gave a general service which costed me around 2000 bucks which proved to be very useful. I made some useful things which would make engine life better.
Started to ride it. Wow. What a vehicle. I love it. Pickup is amazing. Even I raced with some 125 cc bikes likes xcd, glamour etc. Activa moved like a breeze. It easily crosses 60kmph(because of no gears) and I also rode it in 80kmph in my college days. No vibrations till the top speed. I could not forgot the days in college, when we roam everywhere with my activa. Maximum speed is 80 kmph. After that its very hard to push and the engine dies. So I dont want to spoil the engine. Thanks for honda engineers for providing a wonderful engine.
I generally use to use only shell petrol for my activa. So my activa always returned me more than 48kmpl which I think is a good thing for this segment. 48 kmpl is the lowest mileage I got ever, as I was driving the vehicle at 80 kmph for some times.But tank quantity is small which holds just 5 litres of petrol. But it does not seemed to be a problem for me.
The handling is very good in Activa. It has ample leg space with which even a 5.9 ft person can easily place his legs. It also feels safe while driving and it can be easily driven in even in high traffic. I also felt safe while driving in speeds more than 50 kmph. The seating position is also very good. The seats are broader and I felt very comfortable. But it is not suitable for longer drives.The tyres also does their job well. Honda has provided tuff-up tube in both front and back which is very useful for the scooters. It reduces the sudden deflation of tyres during punctures. I feel it is very necessary for scooters as it is difficult to balance scooters during sudden deflation of tyres.
The front and back shock absorbers is good and takes the pathholes easily and provides a stress free ride. Telescopic shock absorbers can be provided in front rather than the current ones. But its not a major flaw.
Braking is good. 130mm brakes are provided in both front and the back. It helps in efficient braking performance. In new coming activas(Deluxe version), Combi-braking is provided. It increases the braking performance and reduces the stopping distance. Again a thanks to the honda for its innovation.
The looks of the activa is also attractive. the speedometer and the fuel gauge are placed perfectly and it works accurately. A huge under seat storage is also provided which easily accomodated my helmet and some of my college books.
The only disadvantage I found in activa is the headlight. Beam quality is not good. Night driving was not so easy but at the same time not difficult.
I rode my activa for aroung 12000 kms by using it around 2 Yrs and after that sold it. I miss it very much now. Overall Honda Activa is a worth buying and a good value for money with 5 years Engine warranty provided by Honda.