Honda Activa 125: When it comes to scooters in India, the first thing that comes to our mind is Honda Activa.
Of its derivatives, the Activa 125 has made a significant contribution to the premium 125cc scooter.
Famed for its reliability, fuel efficiency and smooth engine, there’s no excuse why someone looking for a bit more get-up-and-go and comfort than that provided by the run-of-the-mill 110ccs shouldn’t have this scooter.
The Activa 125 is not just a larger Activa, as some might presume. For that, it gets more refinement, more stability, more features, and a higher-quality feel, without any loss of functionality either.
Design and Styling
Honda has kept the Activa 125 clean and simple design wise. It doesn’t exaggerate the sporty aspect of the interior, which is just fine for the broad age range of buyers.
The front apron gets chrome accents, semi-digital instrument cluster and chic alloy wheels in the top-spec trim add to its more premium look.
It looks stylish with advanced LED headlamp, signature position lamps combined with metal body.
It’s a scooter that’s not altogether out of place in family and office settings.
Engine and Performance
The Activa 125 is powered by a 124cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine which churns out 8.3 PS and 10.4 Nm of peak torque.
The engine is designed especially for refined power and fuel economy.
It is also borne with Honda’s eSP (Enhanced Smart Power) technology and ACG starter for noiseless starts.
It’s a comfortable ride, whether you’re traveling in traffic or on open roads. There is sufficient bottom end grunt, which is there to take on hills as well pillion, and the throttle response is smooth as well.
It might not be the quickest 125cc out there, but it’s arguably one of the smoothest.
Taking a more practical route, in real riding conditions, the Activa 125 gives a mileage figure of about 50–55 km/l that is rather decent for a 125cc scooter.
Ride Quality and Handling
Honda has calibrated the suspension for comfort, not sportiness. It is equipped with a telescopic front fork and 3-step adjustable rear spring which makes it easily absorb bumps and potholes presented on the roads.
It has a fairly good road grip, on the back of the 12-inch front wheel and the 10-inch rear wheel, and the braking system – drum or a disc based on the variant – is sharp.
The scooter has a solid center of gravity even at low speeds, and the seat height is suitable for riders of all stature.
While riding the Activa 125 it is table stakes misery for young professionals, but relatively less of an inconvenience for elder family members.
Features and Utility
The Activa 125 isn’t all about performance either – it gets its share of practical features:
Silent start system (ACG starter)
Side stand engine cut-off
Idle Stop System (for better fuel mileage)
Fuel filler cap located outside for ease of refueling
Partially digital instrument cluster with instantaneous and average mileage.
Glovebox in front and storage under seat
It also gets the Honda’s Smart Key system in the top variant, offering keyless start, anti-theft alert and remote seat unlock — one of the most feature-laden scooters ever.
Pros
Excellent engine refinement
Quality of ride: Discomfort and stability
Rugged design with metal casing for long life
Decent fuel economy for a 125 scooter
Novel tech features including silent start, smart key
Not much maintenance and high resale value
Cons
Young buyers may not be attracted to conservative design
A bit more expensive than some rivals
No USB charge port included as standard
Stiff rear suspension on rough roads.
Could be sporty without any doubts for performance geeks
Honda Activa 125: Conclusion
For a balanced choice, the Activa 125 is quite comfortable, efficient, and will last long.
It’s not flashy or overly sporty It’s just doing what it does best: providing a gentle, stress-free ride for the comfert-minded commuter, or family for short trips around town.
If you need a stylish, premium, practical and economical 125cc scooter with the trusted Honda badge, the Activa 125 continues to one of the most sensible options on our roads today.