STYLING, FEATURES & PERFORMANCE
One glance at the new Activa-i and its easy to identify the autoscoot’s feminine inclination and despite sharing a similar moniker, it bears no design resemblance to its parent model. Though offered as a cheaper alternative, the Activa-i has been given a decent styling treatment and unlike square-ish proportions in the original Activa, retains a more curvaceous daft. The dashboard looks neat and modern showing no signs of quality compromise. The multi-reflector headlight, large front indicators with built in pilot lamps and a modern looking tail impart the Activa-i with a diverse personality.
The switchgear and instrumentation as has been the norm across Honda Autoscoots, is ergonomic in operation and though the switches feel durable, they don’t seem as well finished as the other scoots in the lineup.
The footboard has enough space to accommodate a tall rider even while carrying a medium sized bag affixed to a spring hook. 18 litres of underseat storage provides enough lockable space for a medium size helmet and a boot for routine grocery purchases.
The headlight beam is average but acceptable for its segment and works best when ridden in low beam. The high beam except for marginal distance doesn’t offer the spread and intensity that the low beam offers.
Talking of comfort, the seat has enough cushion and accommodates two up riding with relative ease and feels cozy as long as one is riding over well paved roads. Comfort goes for a toss as soon as the Activa-i hits a bad patch. Even minor undulations can be felt through the handlebars and though there are no squeaks form the body panels, the ride quality does take a beating. The front suspension seems overly stiff and the damping feels nearly non-existent. The rear too seems to be on the stiffer side, and though the cushy seat somewhat compensates for the rigid ride quality, it’s hard to avoid bouncing on the seat while goes over a bumpy tarmac. The addition of weight while riding two up reduces the jerkiness to some extent, but even the co-passenger was found complaining about the stiff ride.
Coming to handling, the Activa-i is more than a handy tool in cutting through traffic with minimum effort. It does feel bottom light, but holds its desired line of travel during cornering.
The tubeless MRF Zappers offer ample grip in both wet and dry conditions. When it comes to braking, the front brakes lack the required bite and ensure that the scoot stops like a train. Thankfully the combi-brakes are extremely effective in slowing down or bringing the Activa-i to a breezy stop without any drama.
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