TVS NTORQ 125

Powered by a 124.8cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with 3-valves, the TVS NTorq produces 9.4PS of power and 10.5Nm of torque.

Our test run concluded that the NTorq is the quickest 125cc scooter we have ever tested. Off the line, it’s a whopping 1.3 seconds faster than the Honda Grazia, its closest rival. The 0-60kmph stint is achieved in just 7.65 seconds. 

Even post 60kmph the NTorq pulls strongly. The same was confirmed by our 20-80kmph kickdown figures, which the NTorq achieved in 11.97 seconds. This is just 0.20 seconds off the Aprilia SR150. Impressive indeed! Mild vibrations do creep in between 45-50kmph but nothing disconcerting. The most entertaining bit on the NTorq is the induction noise, which adds a bit of bass to the raspy exhaust note.

The NTorq is not only quick but fast as well, managing a Vbox-tested number of 101kmph, with 106kmph on the display. Refinement levels are impressive as well, as there are absolutely no vibrations even when pushed to the limit. The engine doesn’t feel stressed either.

The stress-free character of the engine at high speeds attests to our fuel efficiency figures as well. Its is one of the most fuel-efficient of the 125cc scooters we have tested on the highway, offering 53.4kmpl. In the city though, the efficiency figure of 47kmpl puts it in the same ballpark as its rivals.

The NTorq is built around an all-new chassis, with telescopic front forks and a gas-charged rear monoshock. The balance of sportiness and comfort is spot on on the TVS NTorq. The front suspension is set on the firmer side with the rear being relatively softer. So you do get a minor thud from the front every time the scooter tackles a sharp bump, while the rear soaks up the same with ease. It deals with rough road patches with competence though, and in our opinion, has the best ride quality in this segment of scooters. Also, the 116 kg kerb weight and the chunky tyres provide immense stability and confidence on loose surfaces.

The TVS gets a soft padded seat that feels plush without being too soft like the one on the Jupiter. However, it still feels a tad soft for really long hauls in the saddle, especially if the rider is on the heavier side. The seat isn’t as long as the Jupiter’s, but proves to be comfortable for the pillion. It’s also slightly raised at the end, which makes for a more natural pillion posture. However, a generously sized pillion will find the edges of the seat a bit pokey. The NTorq comes with a tapering and narrow seat which allows shorter riders to reach the ground easily. The rider seat area is also quite low.

The TVS NTorq gets typical scooter ergonomics with an upright riding position. The handlebars are flat and higher-set, allowing for an easy and comfortable reach. This is a boon for even six-feet tall riders as they can manoeuvre the TVS NTorq with ease and without having the handlebar hitting the knees in tight turns.

Thanks to its slightly stiffer front end the NTorq is eager to duck into turns. In fact, it’s so reactive to the slightest of input on the handlebar that it catches you off guard at first. But you do get used to it quite quickly. Thanks to the longish wheelbase of 1285mm the scooter feels confident even mid-corner. However, the extensions on either side of the floorboard will scrape if pushed too hard into turns. We are mighty impressed by the specially developed TVS Remora tyres, which further aid the TVS NTorq’s handling characteristics.

The more rounded profile of the tyres help with the lean angles on this scooter, which is unlike any.

For braking, the NTorq gets a 220mm petal disc up front and a 130mm drum at the rear. While the front brake doesn’t have very sharp initial bite, go hard on the lever and deceleration is progressive. Comparatively, the rear brake is sharper and tends to lock up under hard braking. However, apply the two together and the scooter stops without any fuss or tyre squeal.

On the braking front, there is a slight letdown in terms of braking distance. In our 60-0kmph test the NTorq managed 18.93 metres, which is about 0.9 metres more than its closest rival, the Honda Grazia. But that can be accounted for when you factor in the NTorq’s heavier kerb weight.