This is a long review and I have Edited this review 3 times with my growing knowledge about my flame. But reading it will be useful for you to get an idea about this bike.
I bought a used TVS Flame 125 2008 model bike(second handed) after thinking and researching about it, in 2013 August month. Because I was looking for a smart looking bike with average kmpl around 55-60.
When I bought it second hand, its total mileage was closer to 47, 000km(now it is 59, 000km). It had a modified beat silencer, because the company’s silencer doesn’t last much long. Had no chain case(this cause the chain and sprockets wear quickly). Its Got a quality sound Horn by default. And the handle was replaced too. I replaced Flame handle balencers with Pulsar ones. It gave a better look and control to the bike.
Both cables(clutch& accelerator) was broken after 50, 000km. I had to replace new piston rings set at 55, 000km as the bike started to burn engine oil with a white smoke coming out of the silencer. For that I had to spend about SLR3000. I had to replace Ignition Coil at 57000km area. I do not go to TVS service centers for repairs coz they are very very expensive. I get all my maintenance done by a mechanic near my home.
I have done above 12, 000km with this bike so far. First I must say this bike is not bad as everyone says. Its up to the user. If you maintain it well and replace quality spare parts by a good mechanic, it will not make much trouble.(However it was broken on road 2, 3 times-But its affordable coz they are machines) My bike gives me around 55-60kmpl after I got the carburetor cleaned& tuned by a good mechanic. And I mix Soltron catelyser with petrol to improve engine performance and better mileage. The seat is not much comfortable for long rides. Im thinking of replacing the seat cushion and cover for more comfort of riding(I will let you guys know when its done).
Top speed I reached with Flame 125 is 96kmph. I think it can go to 100km. But above 90kmph bike is not stable. And it vibrates 65kmph. Not a big problem for me.
Before I used the bike once a week. So I had to apply choke(air) and kick 2-3 time and keep accelerating till the engine heats up. Now I ride it 30kms daily.But still sometimes I need to apply choke(Air) and kick. I don’t like it much. Because my friends leaves just after one kick on their bikes without any troubles.
This bike has a good riding control. When I apply both brakes(70% Front Disc% 30% Rare) it stops quickly. And 2, 3 times I applied rare drum brake only on emergency situations. Amazingly bike went straight even when the back wheel was locked by brake. That’s a very important thing I found on this bike. You know some bikes slides and falls when applied rare brake only(I have experience).
I like Flames design& shape as its an uncommon bike according to my point of view. And the space it has over the petrol tank is useful to carry some tools like screws. So, that’s my story about Flame 125(I love this bike). Please forgive if there is anything wrong in this as this is my experience. People who like a smart looking average bike this is it. Happy riding to all.