The motorcycle market has recently seen two new bike launches (not counting product upgrades and variants) ? Kinetic Velocity and TVS Centra. I thought I would do a proper test and comparison of both the bikes to figure out which is a better motorcycle, and a better buy. I have evaluated both bikes on all important criteria, after riding them for 250 km each. Here are my learnings, and see the winner of the comparison below.
Styling: On looks and styling, the Velocity scores much higher than the Centra. The Centra is very plain looking with nothing to distinguish it from any other motorcycle on the road. The Velocity on the other hand is very handsome and muscular with a large curvy petrol tank, great fit-finish, many small style touches, and premium paint job. Points for styling ? Centra : 4. Velocity : 9
Performance: Here too. Velocity has an advantage of 15cc more in engine size. Centra does ok too. Both bikes are not too far apart in terms of acceleration times, braking and top speed; but the Velocity holds advantage because of sheer cc; and also has better braking. Ratings for performance: Centra: 7, Velocity: 9
Fuel efficiency: One of the major disappoints with the centra, given its hype and billing manifests itself with its ability to stretch the fuel load. Its not below industry average, but its not more than that. I did lots of testing on this, multiple times. The best I got on the Centra was 70 kmpl (highway, at constant speeds) and worst was 55 kmpl (in city traffic conditions). Velocity was better ? with the best figure at 78 kmpl and the worst at 62 kmpl. Ratings for fuel efficiency: Centra: 8, Velocity: 9
Ride and handling: Here too, the Velocity scores highter ? because it has premium tyres (MRF Zappers) as opposed to TVS inhouse Srichakra. This makes a big difference. Velocity also has a better suspension, a spot-on perfect riding position for high comfort, a really good seat, its very stable and the ride inspires a lot of confidence. The Centra does not offer much extra. Its adequate and that?s it. With a pillion rider, the Centra can be a bit scary as the suspension does not hold up well. Ratings for ride and handling: Centra: 6, Velocity: 8
Living with it: The Velocity offers more in terms of instrumentation and that ?solid? feel. Centra comes off as tiny and basic. If you are any taller than 5?4? you will have an issue with ergonomics of the Centra, as its too compact and smallish and bare-basic. It also lacks a tachometer, a pass light, engine kill switch ? small things that go a long way in enjoying your bike. Ratings: Centra: 6, Velocity: 9
Summing it up: in Summary, I guess I have to say that the bikes are unfairly compared to each other. Clearly, the Velocity is in a class that is above the Centra. The Velocity competes with higher end bikes like Passion Plus, Freedom, Victor, Wind 125; while the Centra competes with entry level boring bikes like CD dawn, Boxer and boss. When seen this way, it becomes clear that the Velocity priced at 38, 000 or so is a very attractive buy; whereas the Centra priced at 37, 000 is actually too expensive a bike to buy. You are better off buying a CD Dawn or Boxer or Boss and saving 7000 Rs instead.