Jun 01, 2010 10:29 PM
5735 Views
Hey everybody, got a chance to drive a friends 110 cc aviator today, as my palio has gone for servicing. I was pleasantly surprised at the great ride quality and the reasonable handling, almost like a motorcycle( I normally drive a honda shine, and have owned pulsar, cd100, splendor, kb 100, samurai etc etc., so I know) . it transformed my ride of 22 kms to pure pleasure. Talking of the pleasure, my wifes hero honda pleasure gives me terrible aches and pains if I venture out on the same long ride, even in a city like chennai as its suspension and seat are very very hard.
The aviator pampers you in comfort, in contrast. However, be cautioned that the seat is almost too soft and takes on your butts shape, needing frequent 'adjustment'!. The sound of the engine is also different as it has a large round silencer unlike the flat box of the Activa, almost like the eterno of old. This scooter is almost brand new and I could almost seee the fuel meter going down. I have driven it non stop for about 40 kms since afternoon (!) and have given rides to all who want them. I enjoyed it thoroughly, though it still falls short of being a propah motorcycle as the lower moment of inertia of the smaller wheels never lets you forget that you are on a scooter. Typically one would fall into steep corners that would be a breeze on a motorcycle, and you'd be obliged to put your feet down on the tarmac 'chetak' style in slow riding.
The combi brake also actually works, and even hard stops do not lead to skidding or the back washing out before the front wheels. Not having a front box is also a dis advantage, though the smooth plastic means less cleaning. The only serious drawback I can imagine is the horrid styling, which is a hotch potch of 60's American muscle car meets lambretta! However, to repeat ad nauseum, the comfort and ride quality, due to the soft front suspension, the very wide and soft seat and the reasonably firm rear springs make it feel like a car ride- a really good car ride at that( not a maruti!). I was expecting to have neck pain after 2 hours of riding but theres none of that, hence I am tempted to gift myself a new aviator in a sober grey or silver colour for my 45th birthday.
Now, to find the cash. Ride on mates. you find the nicest people on a Honda. -TWINCAM
