Scooter sales are on a consistent rise and are getting more popular each day. The highest sellers are the 110cc models but, with the need for more power on a rise and increasing demand from the younger market there are more and more bike makers entering the 125cc segment. TVS is the newest entrant to this segment with the Ntorq 125. We had the opportunity to ride this scooter at the TVS’s test facility.
On the Outside
The Indian bike maker claims that the Ntorq’s design has been inspired by a stealth aircraft and this is clearly visible through its sharp edges. The front apron is raked and features a V-shaped headlight but, it is a standard unit and not a LED one. The rear end of the scooter is unique; it has a T-shaped LED taillight. The rear vents and nicely integrated indicators look neat. We found the carbon-fibre finish all over the plastic panels to be overdone. Another nice touch is the thick grab rails on the bike which are nice to hold and work well.
The 125cc scooter also has a large exhaust which is interesting to say the least. The wheels on the scooter are very impressive; they are gloss black, multi-spoke and look stunning. The scooter also has bar-end weights but they are just cosmetic. The scooter also has many other features like an engine kill-switch, pass light switch, under-seat light, fuel light, external fuel-filler cap and more.
The Instrumentation
TVS suggests that there are as many as 30 parameters that can be displayed on the 5-inch screen. It has data like a lap timer, 0-60kph timer, top-speed, and engine-temperature and service reminder. The Ntorq also gets ‘Smart Xonnet’, a system that uses Bluetooth to sync your cell phone. With this one can view information like incoming calls, SMS, battery life and reception.
TVS has also teamed up with MapmyIndia to offer navigation assist, which displays directions on the console. One can also view other data like time of arrival and remaining distance. Another nice touch is the ability to share this to your friends via messaging apps.
How does it Ride?
The frame the new scooter uses is the same under-bone-type as the one seen on the Jupiter. However, this time around it a squared-out unit and not a tube-type. TVS engineers suggested that this makes the frame considerably stiffer which would result to better handling. Even though the scooter is clad in fibre body panels, it weighs 116kg which is a fair bit more than its rivals. Does this extra weight affect the overall handling? No. The Ntorq’s handling is good and planted. The handling cannot be compared to the SR150, but it goes about in a fuss-free manner.
We really liked the tight turning circle of the Ntorq; the scooter also has a tall handlebar. TVS has also worked on the suspension of the scooter, the fork and rear monoshock are wider than the Jupiter. Furthermore, the scooter has an overall balanced ride quality – a good mix between sporty and comfortable ride. Lastly, the Ntorq is the only scooter to feature a petal-type disc brake up front, the rear gets a drum.
Should I Buy One?
You may have guessed it; we really like the new TVS Ntorq. It’s a simple, well-rounded and a fun offering. At first, we were expecting a sporty scooter but TVS has chosen a good balance of comfort and practicality. The scooter also has advanced instrumentation which sets a new benchmark in the segment. This screen will also appeal to the younger audience. And lastly, the ₹58,750 (ex-showroom, Delhi) price is very good value for money.
