Scooters contribute significantly to the growing Indian two-wheeler industry, and although 2017 didn't see a lot of new scooter launches, here's a look at the most significant scooter launches of the year. From the bestselling Honda Activa 4G to even a premium electric scooter from Okinawa, 2017 could well mark the beginning of a new era for the scooter segment. The list here includes updated models like the Honda Activa 4G and the TVS Jupiter Classic Edition, but these nevertheless are the most significant scooters the year had to offer. So, here's a look at the top 5 scooter launches of 2017.
The 2017 Honda Activa 4G
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) launched the fourth generation of its top-selling 110 cc earlier this year. The Honda Activa 4G is now available with an engine which meets the latest BS-IV emission norms as well as the automatic headlamp on function. Powered by a 109 cc, single-cylinder engine which makes 8 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 9 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm, the Honda Activa 4G carries forwards the mantle of the single largest-selling scooter in India. Loaded with features like the combined braking system and a mobile charging socket in the underseat stowage area, the Honda Activa 4G continues to lead scooter sales in the world's largest two-wheeler market. The Activa 4G is priced at Rs. 51,324 (ex-showroom Delhi).
Also Read: Honda Activa 4G Vs TVS Jupiter Comparison Review
The TVS Jupiter Classic Edition gets revised design and styling
TVS Motor Company introduced an all-new variant of the company's bestselling Jupiter scooter in 2017, called the TVS Jupiter Classic Edition. The Jupiter Classic Edition doesn't get any mechanical updates but gets new features like round, chrome mirrors, a short windshield, chrome backrest, along with a smart USB charger and comfortable dual-tone coloured seat. The Jupiter Classic Edition is powered by a 110 cc, single-cylinder engine which makes 7.9 bhp of maximum power at 7500 rpm, and 8 Nm of peak torque at 5500 rpm. The TVS Jupiter Classic Edition is available in 10 different colours and is priced at Rs. 55,466 (ex-showroom Delhi).
Honda Cliq has a small 3.5-litre fuel tank
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) launched the Honda Cliq scooter in 2017, targeted at rural and semi-urban markets to take on established commuter motorcycles in these markets. Going with the image and target market, the Honda Cliq gets a rugged design, with special block pattern tubeless tyres to take on rough terrain like broken roads and the like. With all-plastic bodywork, the Honda Cliq is lighter than the Activa 4G, but gets a small 3.5-litre fuel tank. Priced at Rs. 42,384 (ex-showroom Delhi), the Honda Cliq has been launched in a phased manner across India to compete against established commuter motorcycles.
Also Read: Honda Cliq First Ride Review
The Honda Grazia is powered by the 125 cc engine of the Honda Activa 125
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) launched yet another scooter in 2017, the Honda Grazia. The Grazia is the flagship scooter from HMSI and comes with the same 125 cc engine that powers the Honda Activa 125. Targeting young and urban buyers, the Honda Grazia gets premium styling and a host of additional features, like dual-tone colours, chrome design elements, premium quality switchgear and a new full-digital instrument panel with a small visor. Priced at Rs. 57,897 (ex-showroom Delhi), the Honda Grazia is the most expensive among the Honda scooters currently on sale in India. The Grazia is powered by a 124.9 cc, single-cylinder engine which makes 8.52 bhp of maximum power and 10.54 Nm of peak torque.
Also Read: Honda Grazia First Ride Review
(The Okinawa Praise Electric scooter gets a lithium-ion battery as optional)
Electric scooter manufacturer Okinawa Autotech introduced a brand-new premium electric scooter called the Okinawa Praise at Rs. 59,889 (ex-showroom, Delhi). With a design which underlines its premium positioning, the Okinawa Praise gets an LED headlight with DRL and LED taillight and indicators. It's powered by a 1000 watt electric motor with a top speed of 75 kmph, making it the fastest electric scooter on sale in India. According to the company, the Okinawa Praise can run for 175-200 km on a single charge of its battery. Going with its upmarket appeal, the Okinawa Praise rides on 12-inch wheels with twin disc brakes at the front, and a single disc brake at the rear wheel. It also comes with electronic assisted braking system with a telescopic front fork and double shocks at the rear. Features like full-digital instrument panel, 19.5 litre underseat storage, side-stand sensor, keyless ignition, find my scooter function underscores the Okinawa Praise e-scooter's premium positioning.
