HONDA ACTIVA 3G REVIEW  3

Exactly What You Need

Indians are fond of their scooters as much as they taking an avid interest in stylish bikes. Now if you have a brand called Honda with its 3G avatar in scooters that too, it’s more than likely that purchasing lies on the cards! With scooter sales peaking by the day, particularly scooties, it is no surprise that several motorcycles fall short of their standards. Even 14 years back when automatic scooters were on the brink of extinction, it was Honda that revived faith among Indian consumers with their Activa.

Now that the company has imparted a cosmetic makeover to the Activa 3G, there are certain tweaks ad twists to gain more attention. For instance, the front fascia in a restyled form with larger faux vents, the handlebar headlamp mounted on it are few updates that Honda designers decided to proceed with. While the basic design stays intact, noticeable differences between the generations in the Activa series can be understood from the rear.

activa 4g petrol tank

What’s new and what’s not

After revolutionizing the scooter segment that almost started vanishing into thin air, Honda Activa 3G has made it to the top level of the popular unisex automatic scooter. Much like its predecessor, the conservative styling is apparent in the third generation version. However, the new set of 3G badges and innovative color schemes are bound to get customers weak in the knees. Available in 5 variants- black, geny grey metallic, pearl amazing white, lusty red metallic and trance blue metallic, all the shades lend a premium touch to this new model.

In addition to this, the tail lamp assembly has also been redesigned on the lines of the previous Activa 125 scooter. Also, the instrument cluster and few other vital components carry the signature Activa touch, lest customers feel deprived of Honda’s original offering.

Design

With few cosmetic changes, the scooter looks awesome! Honda has been particularly wary when bringing few alterations in the design department but the sleeker and modish appearance has somehow appealed to the greater lot. Of particular mention is the trendier color, the one in blue that finds a greater fan following than most others. The side panels are edgy and unique which gives a sharp and stylish look. The all new winkers and tail lamp further adds to the beauty of the scooter. Tubeless tyres give peace of mind while riding and reduces chances of deflation immediately on puncture. The upright sitting posture is specially designed for long fatigue free rides.

Engine power and efficiency

3G gets power from its 109cc Air cooled, 4-stroke, SI engine that gives out a peak power of 8bhp at 7500rpm and maximum torque of 8.83Nm at 5500rpm. It has a kerb weight equal to 108 kg. The company specialists powered the Activa 3G with the much tried and tested 110cc Honda Eco Technology (HET) engine via a CVT transmission. The scooter has a hydraulic spring loaded suspension and 130mm drum brakes on both the ends, which add to the power and performance level.

Top speed for this Activa variant is about 82kmph but once the speedometer’s dial crosses 70 mark, there is an inevitable straining.

Mileage

When it comes to fuel efficiency, 3G is not one of the best but has better mileage than most in the segment. It could go up to 53-54km per litre of petrol on city roads and could easily go up to 58kmpl on highways.

Braking power

Quick on the feet and agile in changing directions, the Activa 3G allows riders to squeeze out via the tightest gaps. This is largely because of the stupendous braking via the drum brake at the front end as well as the rear. The CBS (combi brake system) is however, considered standard. The drum brake setup performs its role well when it comes to slowing down speeds and offers enormous response.

Additional accessories

The third generation of Activa looks peppy and contains mechanical stuffs like gearbox, suspension, analogue speedometer and tachometer, tripmeter and also a superb electric start.

Pricing and Rivals

The Honda Activa 3G can be availed at an approx rate of 50000-53000 INR(Ex-Showroom). Other 110cc scooters in the segment which are its notable rivals are Hero Maestro, Mahindra Gusto, TVS Jupiter and Wego.

Verdict

If not the best, the features certainly get the Activa 3G surpass competitors. If only the ride quality could be attended more strongly, it would be a perfect buy. Activa model is the highest selling 2 wheeler in India and with this latest variant I am sure that position would be further solidified.