Honda Activa vs TVS Jupiter – Which is the better scooter?
The Honda Activa has been one of the top sellers in the scooter market for a long time now. The introduction of TVS Jupiter with its 'macho' features only serves to strengthen the competition for Activa. How does Activa compare to Jupiter; is it better, or not worth buying? Read on to find out more about Honda Activa vs TVS Jupiter.
The Similarities
Let's start with the engine. Both, Activa and the Jupiter also use engines powered by air-cooled 110cc single cylinder, four-strokes. The maximum power developed in both is 8PS; the rpm reached is exactly the same, too. Honda Activa as well as TVS Jupiter couple their engines to CVTs. In terms of start-up and refinement of drive, both have electric start installed and feel refined once fired.
Whether it be the throttle response, or the weight, both scooters feel reasonably peppy and can climb in speed up to 60kmph. The Activa and the Jupiter, take 10.2s and 10.5s, respectively, to reach 60kmph from standstill under full acceleration. That is a remarkably negligible difference. There isn't much difference in maximum speed between the two scooters; where the Activa maxes at 86.2kmph, the Jupiter's highest is 85.2kmph. Also among the standards between the two scooters are the key shutter lock and the parking brake clamp.Differences
While the Honda Activa is the ever popular scooter in every household, the TVS Jupiter does give it a run for its money with its features. While both scooters garner a unisex appeal, the Jupiter has intelligent designing to its advantage over the Activa – TVS has been able to optimize the handlebar-seat distance and height better, and have even comfortably oriented the seat-floorboard height. The ergonomics of the TVS Jupiter, I found to be brilliant – they've included a mobile charging point and a front hook for hanging light packages. They even located the fuel filler cap on the tail, which means there is no more the need to get off the scooter and open the seat to fill up!
The TVS Jupiter is equipped with a throttle based "Econometer" which helps the riders maintain a good fuel economy. In addition, the Jupiter also is equipped with a reserve fuel light indication and a pass-by switch, which is the first for any Indian scooter; talk about modernizing! Additional features on the TVS Jupiter include parking lamps and an LED tail lamp which the Honda Activa missed out on. The plus points on the Honda Activa include an additional litre of storage space under the seat and its CLIC mechanism, making it easier to access the engine. However, despite the additional storage space, Activa, just as Jupiter, is only able to store half faced helmets.
There is also a marked difference in the sound and feel of the two engine when ridden at full speed. Not much vibration or noise is noticed in the Jupiter's engine, and it remains refined throughout its operating range. However, towards the top rpm range, the Activa begins to sound unwrought and overdone, with increased vibrations.The Major Difference – The Deciding Factor
For the economy conscious scooter buyers, the mileage holds utmost importance. This is where the Honda Activa trumps the TVS Jupiter. Honda Activa usually returns around 55.5kmpl on city roads, where as the max delivered by the Jupiter is 51.2kmpl. This puts Activa in a range of around 295km against a range of 256km for Jupiter. Thus, it would make more sense to opt for the Honda Activa, but the TVS Jupiter is gaining quite good ground on it.
Click the link to compare Honda Activa and TVS Jupiter specifications.
Hi All,
I bought a new Jupiter scooter. Riding is very smooth now. Will update you about the performance, mileage and all sooner.