The Honda Activa is a product that needs no introduction. Ever since it was launched in India over two decades ago, this bestseller has seen small updates and feature additions along the way. Here are some reasons to buy the Activa 110 and some which will tempt you to look elsewhere.
Reasons to buy the Activa 110
Smooth engine which returns excellent fuel economy
Refinement and Honda go hand-in-hand for by and large any product from the manufacturer’s stable we talk about and the Activa is no different. Its long-stroke engine is smooth almost all throughout the rev band and also returns excellent fuel economy. In our tests, the Activa returned a combined fuel economy of 60kpl.
Convenience-enhancing features
A scooter’s USP is the amount of convenience and practicality it affords the user over a comparable motorcycle. In that regard, the Activa is quite adept with its keyless ignition system and fuel-saving start/stop tech. With the key fob in your pocket, all you need to do is twist a knob to get going or to switch the engine off and lock the handlebar - very convenient and hassle-free. Coming to the start/stop tech, its operation is seamless and all you need to do to restart the engine is twist the accelerator - a feature that also helps boost fuel efficiency.
Promise of reliability and low running costs
One big reason no one has been able to dethrone the Activa from its throne is that the scooter has cemented itself as a bastion of reliability in the nearly twenty five years it has been on sale. Honda also has a reputation for generally low service costs, which is another plus point for a prospective customer.
Reasons not to buy the Activa 110
Small bootspace by today’s standards
A big reason why people choose scooters instead of motorcycles is the practical underseat storage area they offer. With some modern electric scooters offering more than 35 litres of storage, the Activa’s rather small 18 litre underseat storage area feels thoroughly outclassed in today’s day and age.
Absence of front disc brake
While the top H-Smart variant of the Activa comes with a colour TFT display, keyless ignition and start/stop tech, it still doesn’t get a front disc brake which is a glaring omission. The drum brake works adequately well in slowing the scooter down but will need regular tightening and it is a clear step down in terms of braking feel compared to a disc brake, both of which are crucial factors to consider.
