Ahead of the launch of the new Honda Activa 125 in April, Honda has commenced the bookings for the automatic scooter at its dealerships for a token amount of Rs. 5000/-. However, with the launch yet to take place next month, the Japanese manufacturer has already created hype over the Activa 125 with a waiting period of six months. The Honda Activa has ruled the roost for the longest period in the automatic two-wheeler segment in India ever since it was launched in 1999.
Over the years, the Honda Activa has seen its popularity soar above the skies, with the cash registers ringing for the company till date. The brand Activa attracts a lot of customers more than the merits of the actual scooter. However, Honda has milked the Activa cow enough, over time. With better products in the market, the Activa is an aged competitor. The 125 version plans to take on a more powerful segment with a new design, improved dynamics and a powerful engine.
The new Honda Activa 125 measures 1814 mm in length, 704 mm in width and 1151 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1260 mm. The Activa 125 is longer than the 109cc version. The scooter gets a 124.9cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine producing 8.6 BHP at 6500 RPM and 10.12 Nm of torque at 5500 RPM. It gets telescopic front forks and a monoshock setup at the rear. The scooter rides on 12-inch wheel at the front and a 10-inch tyre at the rear (tubeless tyres). Stopping power comes from a 190 mm disc brake offered as an option, while the rear gets a drum brake setup. The combi-braking system is also present for safe stopping.
On the design front, the Activa 125 does not look radical, but has been given touches for a premium feel throughout the scooter. Honda has generously used chrome on the Activa for a premium touch. The scooter also gets a digital display with an analogue instrument console. The plastic quality too has improved significantly on the Activa. The overall styling is still reserved but definitely looks appealing.
The Honda Activa will be competing against the current segment leader Suzuki Access and Swish, while other products like the Vespa VX and S models, Mahindra Rodeo are equally competitive in the segment. The Activa 125 will most likely be priced at Rs. 66,500/- (on-road, Mumbai). With Honda creating hype for the Activa with six months of waiting, it surely wants to capitalise on the brand more than the product.
