Jun 08, 2007 12:43 PM
4150 Views
Have been using a Kinetic Honda from early 1990 and switched over to the Activa a couple of years back based on looks, performance reviews etc. It has been a mixed bag till date with this vehicle. At the outset, the shopping experience itself was not too great. Arrogant stance of dealers, no discount policy, waiting period . The feel good factor which one gets with shopping was definitely missing. It was a take it or leave it attitude.
Am comparing it to the KH because the other vehicles like TVS scooty / Pep and various vairants of bajaj do not compare to both these vehicles.
Coming to the drawbacks that I could gather.
Quality of plastics used leave a lot to be desired. The grey tones fade within 6 months of purchase. I notice it in almost all vehicles that come for service at my dealers. This is probably true for all their vehicles in the recent past. The initial set of vehicles do not seem to have this issue. Had my KH repainted after 11 yrs of use because of scratches on plastic due to wear and tear.
Accessories that you get along with the vehicle also pretty bad in quality. Rear view mirrors supplied with vehicle has developed spots ( 6 months time). Most of the crash guard that they source from vendors leave a lot to be desired. The paint work on them peels off within months. Costing for the crash guards exorbidant when compared to local market for the same product.
Paint job scratches very easily and not meant for the rigours of parking it in public lots. My Kinetic honda is yet to develop rust spots on its wheels. The activa seems to fail on this front. A keen look shows rust spots on the wheels . The list could go on.
Very thin guage of metal used . Could have been improved. Is it a conscious design factor by the company to keep the vehicle light is not known.
Pick up, handling etc are comparable to Kinetic honda. Both vehicles have an problem when it comes to suspension. You feel the jarring note on bumpy roads.
On the plus side, access to the innards are easier than in a KH. The mechanics have to only open a couple of nuts to get to the sheild off. It is a painful process in KH.
The under chassis seems to be better protected than an KH. you have a plastic guard that runs under your foot board.
Mielage is comparable to a KH. get around 40 - 42 on city drive conditions.
After sales service that I experience at my dealers is nothing great to write about. Could be a localised issue. Waiting for the free service to get over to switch mechanics.
Spares are costly.
A good utility vehicle for domestic purposes. Easy to handle, not a lot of maintenance issues, can safely hold your grocery purchase in the front. Spacious compartment underneath the seat is also a plus. Ideal vehicle for women and men who are not looking for that zip. Not an ideal buy if you are traveling more than 25 km on a daily basis. A bike would offer you better comfort and mielage.
