Nova. Nothing compares to you!. Review on Kinetic Nova

We purchased our Nova in June-2003, just before the 135 version was out from Laxmi Automobiles in Nerul, Navi Mumbai. We confess, we went to the showroom to buy an Activa (we did not know of the split then) which we were very much decided on because we have tried it before. The Kinetic sales guy offered us a Nova test drive and we could not believe Kinetic was beating Honda. This scooter was very much lighter (which was a benefit to my wife), powerful (that one is for me) and beutifull (that's for all of us including our son). Frankly, we did not question anything apart from Mileage (promised around 40+) and Price (again 40K total) and just bought it.

Two years plus down the line the scooter has given us pure pleasure. It has run around 10,000 KMs by now and it is not showing its age (yet). I have not paid much attention to the mileage-check indicator that says above 55 is bad (my favorite is 70 which is still comfortable). I still get 40+ Kms average on HP-POWER. I regularly service my scooter (once every three months), and the expenses have been minimal (approx. Rs. 200 per visit including regular oil change, some additional accessories, etc.)

On the negative side, the headlight goes off the moment acceleration is stopped (is a problem on bumpy, dark road). Also, in the initial 100 mts of the day the engine dies (especially when I take it down the slope to get it out of my building).

I have faced a tyre puncture only once and I have never been stuck on a highway because of breakdown. (something I could not say about my Zen).

The storage space is fantastic (although my wife would still demand more). I am 6-ft, 94 KGs and yet I am comfortable on the scooter (more than on say Activa).

I understand Nova 135 is better in mileage. Well, the good has just got better.