TVS Jupiter 125

The new Jupiter 125 gets LED headlight and a conventional taillight. While the indicators are bulb units, you do get LED DRLs with them. As expected from TVS offerings, the fit and finish levels are top-notch, and the switchgear quality is among the best in the segment. Our test scooter was draped in a unique shade of orange with vibrant-looking metal flakes -- the overall paint quality was impressive. I liked the taillight design and the rear panel in general, thanks to the unique character line. But we cannot say the same about the face of the scooter. The LED headlight is sharp, but the shape of the indicator and the chrome strip running above it is similar to Activa 125. We would have preferred a more unique face for the Jupiter 125. 

Ergonomics

The riding position is upright and comfortable. Even the handlebar is placed high, and it didn’t foul my legs (I am 5’10” tall) while taking u-turns. The footboard space is gracious; even with my size-11 shoes, there was space left. The TVS Jupiter 125’s seat (65mm longer than the Jupiter 110) is also the longest in the segment. Rider aside, even the pillion has loads of space, and the seat padding is also spot on. 

At 765mm, the seat height is the lowest in the segment, but the wide seat can be a bit problematic for shorter riders. Even the floorboard space is among the best in the segment, and TVS claims you can easily carry an LPG gas cylinder. However, we strongly recommend our readers to not do such a thing as it can be a safety hazard. 

The 2021 Jupiter 125 is powered by a 124.8cc motor that shares its bore and stroke figures with the TVS Ntorq 125. TVS claims that it’s an all-new engine (different from that of the Ntorq), and it has been tuned to offer good bottom and mid-range performance. 

Understandably, the Jupiter 125 isn't as quick as the Ntorq, but the scooter does feel peppy from 0-40kmph. The strong mid-range means that it pulls cleanly from 20-60kmph too, which will be really useful while commuting in the city. Post 70kmph, the Jupiter 125 gathers momentum slowly; we did manage to clock around 90kmph on the TVS test track. The slightly weak top-end is courtesy of the 2-valve head motor, unlike the 3-valve head on the Ntorq 125. 

With a kerb weight of 109kg it feels quite nimble too. It is quick to turn, like most scooters are, but doesn’t feel twitchy when you do tip it in. This is also down to the fact that it’s running on 12-inch wheels at both ends, which helps with stability, even though the tyres, both sized 90/90, are a little on the skinnier side. The TVS Jupiter 125 is the only scooter in its segment to offer a gas-charged shock that can be adjusted without a tool. The ride quality is supple, absorbing most of the bumps in a calm and composed manner. The version of the Jupiter 125 we rode came with the optional 220mm front disc brake, which seems to be the same as that on the Jupiter 110. But it provided an excellent bite, and the feel at the lever was really good too. And of course, the scooter comes equipped with synchronised brakes as standard.

Convenience was one of the main targets for TVS designers and engineers when they started developing the Jupiter 125. They managed to achieve it by positioning the fuel tank in the floorboard -- this has two benefits. First, the fuel filler cap has been placed below the handlebar, and it can be easily accessed via the keyhole. This means you can ride into a fuel bunk and get the job done without even having to get off the scooter -- now isn’t that convenient? 

TVS has loaded the Jupiter 125 with a host of features, including start/stop tech, LED underseat storage light, brake lock, and an optional USB charger. The instrument console is a semi-digital unit with an analogue speedometer. The LCD unit displays real-time fuel efficiency, overall fuel efficiency, two tripmeters, reserve range, and a side-stand indicator. The other advantage of positioning the fuel tank under the footboard is that it frees up underseat storage space. At 33 litres, the TVS Jupiter 125 boasts the largest underseat storage for any 125cc scooter on sale. In fact, you can store two ISI-certified helmets (one full-face and the other half-face) underneath the seat. The LED under seat storage light comes as standard across all variants.

Apart from the massive underseat storage, you also get a 2-litre cubbyhole (below the handlebar) where you can store your mobile phone, water bottle, or other items. There’s even an optional USB charger next to it. 

The TVS Jupiter 125 misses out on Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, present on most 125cc scooters on sale. However, TVS said they might offer this as an update next year, depending on customer feedback.