May 12, 2013 02:02 AM
23223 Views
(Updated May 12, 2013 03:47 AM)
Recently I wanted to upgrade my aging TVS Start City 2005 model 100cc bike which completed 47500 kms. It was a solid reliable machine and the replacement has to be even better. This time I wanted to go with a 125cc bike which suited two of my basic requirements 1) a well built reliable machine which has a decent mileage in city conditions 2) engine powerful enough to navigate heavy city traffic conditions with ease. I had to choose between three equally matched bikes Hero Glamour 2012, Bajaj Discover 125 ST and TVS Phoenix 125. Visited nearby showrooms in Hyderabad and took test rides on all three bikes.
Hero Glamour is a great machine but lacked low end grunt similar to what I experienced in my 100cc. With a pillion rider at the back found some difficulty in handling. Pickup was not up to the mark but comfort was the best among the three. What the bike lacked is ease of handling and I felt it is slightly overpriced. Though it had fulfilled both my criteria somehow I felt the engine was outdated even though the looks have been revamped in the new 2012 model.
Discover 125 ST was equally good compared to Hero Glamour and a host of new features the ride quality, the power delivered by the 4 valve engine and the looks all impressed me but somehow I personally don't prefer Bajaj bikes mainly because of low durability and high maintenance cost.
Finally I took a test ride on TVS Phoenix 125. At the first glance it looked more like an upgraded TVS star city but once I took the test ride I realized how different this machine is built. It provided the right balance between power, economy & features. It outweighed most of the other bikes I tested easily due to a host of features fully digital speedometer console, hazard lights, Roto petal discs & powerful refined engine; I personally liked the fully digital speedometer and the engine sound. The ride quality, build and power matched my criteria. Now I own this bike for the past three weeks and I am happy I made the right choice. I commute 35 kms daily in heavy city traffic conditions and for my style of riding I get a mileage of 64 kmpl constantly (550 kms on odometer so far) on this bike.It is extremely agile to maneuver under heavy traffic conditions. If you are commuting in and around Hyderabad city this bike would be your best companion.
Pros: Excellent build quality, Features, Fuel Economy, Comfort, Agile and stable handling
Cons: Not recommended for people who are on fast lane since you may feel the lack of a high end grunt. Accelerating beyond 60 km/hr requires some effort and this bike is not build for speed. Bajaj discover 125 ST will be the right choice.
