Introduction

In terms of technology, features and design, there is no denying to the fact that the Honda Activa 5G is one of the most reliable scooters in the market. The scooter comes with comfortable ergonomics, smooth ride, along with an extended mileage of 60 kmpl. With all the qualities combined, it is an ideal scooter for daily use and long drives, and comes at a competitive price ranging between 54,632 and 56,897. The bike is available in 4 variants: STD, STD Limited Edition, DLX, and DLX Limited Edition, and 10 attractive colour options. 

How is the design? 

The Honda Activa 5G comes with a robust outlook, mated with modern features. Honda has even decided to include a range of thoughtful add-ons to enhance the design quotient of the 5G. While the design and bodywork of the Honda Activa 5G essentially remains the same as the previous version, 4G, the dual chrome in the front apron integrates a full-fledged LED headlight. The scooter sports an overall premium finish and this is mostly due to the add-ons such as the new textured black panels. The single piece pillion grabrail of the 4G is featured in this model as well, and the chrome labelling of the Activa 5G name on the scooter’s metal side panel brings a premium appeal to it. The under-seat storage is not too spacious, but has enough space to accommodate a small-to-medium sized helmet. 

How is the performance?

In its segment, the Honda Activa 5G is one of the most premium looking scooter brands. Powered by a single-cylinder, 190cc, air cooled engine which has the capacity to produce a peak torque of 9Nm at 5,500 rpm and a maximum power of 8bhp at 7500 rpm, the hero scooter delivers an impressive performance. The scooter is extremely purposeful when it comes to cruising through busy streets and ideal for daily rides, because of its comfortable handling and abundant mileage. The scooter delivers the best performance during the initial-to-mid range pickup, especially when the speed range is between 40 kmph and 60 kmph. At this price, it offers the best fuel efficiency. The scooter is not likely to produce any vibration until it reaches 60 kmph, and as claimed by Honda, the Activa 5G is set at a top speed of 83 kmph. Being a city-centred scooter, the 5G features a variomatic transmission, which takes only about 11 secs to reach 0 to 60 Kmph. However, the scooter needs telescopic upgrade and improvement in the suspension hardware. 

How does the Honda Activa 5G ride? 

It is the ride that has let Honda Activa 5G dominate the market of India for so long, and the reasons being its great comfort, mileage, ride quality and premium appeal. The initial pickup of the scooter feels smooth and refined. The engine runs smoothly up to 60 Kmph, without much hindrance, and delivers its best in the mid-range between 40 kmph-50 kmph. However, once reaching beyond 75kmph, the engine struggles to generate power. With even low-end acceleration, the rider can quickly overtake traffic. 

How comfortable is the Honda Activa 5G?

With the Honda Activa 5G, the rider is able to feel a scooter-like sitting stance, upright and relaxed, due to its flat and large floorboard. It comes with well-padded, cushioned and comfortable seats, with sufficient width, ideal for even long rides. For side-saddled pillions, the scooter features a standard metal footboard. However, the Honda Activa 5G still features the same outdated link suspension, which may sail smoothly through good-conditioned roads, but lacks the capacity to absorb bumps and potholes as much, while all the other competitors feature telescopic suspension ensuring comfort and excellent ride quality. 

How's the tech? 

In terms of features and techs, the Honda Activa 5G integrated a few decent add-ons, trying to bring a 5G modern design and outlook. The LED headlamp, being the major highlight of the scooter, brings a robotic look to its appearance. A fair number of upgrades have been made in the instrument cluster, especially the deluxe variant. A semi-digital setup is featured in the scooter, which integrates fuel gauge, single-trip metre, clock, ECO indicator and odometer. The ECO indicator turns on when the scooter reaches an optimum range, where it functions effectively. 

How's the mileage of the Honda Activa 5G?

As claimed by Honda, the Active 5G has the capacity to deliver a mileage of 60 kmph. The fuel tank capacity of the 5G scooter is 5.3 litres. Considering the mileage capacity of Honda, the rider may expect a range of 55 kmpl. Thus, with a full tank and good road conditions, the scooter is expected to cover a range of 300 Kms. 

Is the Honda Activa 5G good value for money? 

In its segment, it is not only the most affordable scooter, but the Honda Activa 5G also comes with a premium look and excellent performance. It delivers good fuel economy and abundant mileage. Considering the modern features and upgrades, the scooter is even more appealing. However, it still lacks a range of important features like disc brake, telescopic suspension. Despite all the shortcomings, it is one of the most reliable scooters in India. 

How is the after sales service? 

Honda offers 3 free services for its Activa 5G. The first free service is offered after completing 1000 kms or 1 month from the date of purchase, whichever is earlier. The second free service is offered after 4000 kms, or 4 months, whichever is earlier, and the third free service is offered after 8000 kms or 8 months, whichever is earlier. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

The strongest competitors of the Honda Activa 5G in this segment are Hero Maestro Edge and TVS Jupiter. However, the Honda Activa 5G is more affordable than the TVS Jupiter. 

Verdict (Value for money)

The Honda Activa 5G is a utilitarian scooter, ideal for daily rides and long rides. It comes with a good sitting and storage capacity, offering comfort to both the rider and the pillion. The fuel economy is another factor adding value to this scooter and so far, it is one of the best in its segment, affordable, stylish and efficient.