TVS Phoenix 125 review, test ride

TVS is back with a bang in the 125cc segment. The new Phoenix 125 aims to soar above the rest of its competition. Will it succeed?

Published on Nov 21, 2012 05:58:00 PM

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The Phoenix 125 houses a revised, four-stroke, 124.5cc, single alloy cylinder and air-cooled short-stroke engine, with bore and stroke measures of 57mm x 48.8mm. The ‘Ecothrust’ engine uses a CV carburettor, a step in the right direction for this segment, and a paper type air-filter element. The Phoenix engine uses a moly-coat layer for its piston, and deploys hard chromed rings. The Phoenix’s engine churns out 10.9bhp of maximum power at 8000rpm, and 1.1kgm of torque at 6000rpm. The Phoenix powerplant is suitably tuned for good low and mid-range grunt, which we experienced as being apt for negotiating congested Indian urban traffic. The Phoenix is a refined and smooth motorcycle that runs vibe-free throughout its broad power band. Throttle response proved adequate for a 125cc motorcycle while riding in the city.

The Phoenix uses a four-speed transmission that worked with positive feel throughout our test, but we would have preferred to find a one-down, three-up shift pattern here instead of the all-up shifting gearbox provided. Clutch feel is light, helping to make riding in urban Indian conditions a pleasant affair. Final drive is transferred via a fully-enclosed drive-chain, which isn’t as attractive looking as an exposed chain, but is certain to impress users with superior reliability in demanding, dusty and frequently damp Indian conditions.

The Phoenix although not the fastest in its class, is a quick enough 125cc bike, accelerating from 0-60 in 7.3 seconds during testing by us, and going on to achieve a true top-speed of 96kph when riding flat-out in top gear.