Honda Activa 125 [2019-2024]

The Honda Activa 125 is the bigger and more powerful sibling of the iconic 110cc Activa 6G. Can it do justice to the Honda Activa’s famous name in the 125cc category? Let’s find out:

The 125cc Honda scooter gets the classic Activa design language, but it also features various design elements which make it stand out. The body panels have more cuts and creases that provide a different look from the Activa 6G.  

On the apron, it gets chrome elements at the centre, adding a premium touch, which is accompanied by the LED DRLs (daytime running lights) and indicators. The scooter's overall premium feel is enhanced by fat chrome strips on the sides and a slightly longer grab rail than the Activa 6G’s. The rear turn indicators are placed vertically and feature a chrome strip. Despite all of this chrome, it doesn’t feel like Honda has overused chrome elements anywhere.

Although the Activa 125's appearance doesn't bring something entirely new, Honda has been successful in creating a design that’s loved by a wider audience. The overall fit-and-finish levels are excellent throughout, with consistent panel gaps and high-quality switchgear.

The Activa 125 gets the ‘Idling Stop System’, which switches off the engine automatically at traffic lights or in similar situations where it idles for long. And you simply need to twist the throttle to start the engine again. It also gets the side stand engine cut-off function, an LED headlamp with DRLs (daytime running lights), external fuel cap and a semi-digital instrument console with a digital inset that shows speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, clock information about mileage and distance-to-empty readouts along with the basic telltale lights. 

The H-Smart variant gets Honda’s range of ‘Smart’ features including a key fob which lets you unlock the scooter without using a physical key and automatically locks it whenever there’s no activity for 20 seconds. But, considering the competition in the 125cc segment, the lack of smartphone connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation is disappointing. 

The Activa 125 has a well-padded and spacious seat which is comfortable and feels very good for short city commutes. The riding posture is upright, and there's enough room on the floorboard for most laptop bags without pushing your feet too outward. However, the slightly low handlebar may be uncomfortable for taller riders, requiring them to bend down a bit to grab the handle. The low handle could also occasionally hit the thighs during U-turns. Additionally, the soft seat might become uncomfortable on longer rides or if ridden for long periods in the city.

For the pillion seat, there's more than enough space even for larger riders and the rear footpegs are positioned for a comfortable posture. Pillions will enjoy the plush rear seat for short journeys, but then again, due to its softness, longer rides might become uncomfortable.

The 124cc, single-cylinder engine in the Activa 125 produces 8.3PS and 10.4Nm. It isn't designed for high performance like the TVS NTorq 125 or Aprilia SR 125, so its slower acceleration from 0-60kmph (8.72 seconds, in our test) shouldn’t be a major concern for the scooter’s target audience.

When choosing a bigger capacity 125cc scooter over a 110cc one, the key is its ability to handle more load and maintain slightly higher cruising speeds easily. Now, while the Activa 125’s engine is comfortable at around 70kmph, reaching that speed feels like a struggle in uphill areas. 

On the positive side, the engine is very refined. At any speed, the engine feels almost silent and completely free of vibrations, making the Activa 125 an excellent choice for daily commuting in the urban environment.

The Activa 125 is a family-focused scooter and its suspension prioritises comfort over sharp handling. The telescopic fork and monoshock are set up to be soft, making for a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. 

At 110kg kerb, the Activa 125 is the second heaviest scooter in the 125cc class, after the Hero Destini 125. That said, it feels light and is easy to steer through the city traffic. The soft suspension provides a comfortable ride, however, makes it a bit nervous when taking sharp corners. This is acceptable since the Activa 125 is primarily focused on being a capable, comfortable family scooter.

The Activa 125 with disc brakes performed exceptionally well in our tests. The brake feedback is good, providing better braking control.

If you are in the market for a 125cc commuter scooter, then the Honda Activa 125 is definitely a good option to consider. The engine lacks sporty performance as the scooter was never designed to be a sporty one. But, it has enough power and grunt for fun city rides and is pretty refined too. And most importantly, it comes with Honda’s bulletproof reliability. With a premium design, comfortable riding experience and a decent amount of features, the Honda Activa 125 should be considered if you are buying a new 125cc scooter.