A big disappointment. Review on TVS Victor GLX

I purchased the Victor GL 6 months back, and it has turned out to be a huge disappointment for me. I purchased it coz at that time they were the only ones to offer an interest free loan (but even that was a farce coz they did not give the gold pendant which was being offered to all the prospective buyers, and the bank charged 1200 as processing fees!)

Anyhow, I shall list out the problems I have faced from the beginning:

1) Right from day one, there were starting problems with the bike (i'm talking abt cold start).I had to kick it 10-12 times before it started up.And then, for the first 3-4 kilometres, as soon as I used to let go of the accelerator, it would stop!!Then again the same ritual of kicking and kicking.

Incidentally, I had read about this problem with Victor in a few reviews here at mouthshut, but I foolishly assumed that the problem may be specific to that owners piece :-( After the second service only the starting problem has stopped.

2) Although TVS claims that the bike gives 80 kmpl, I never got more than 60.For the first month, I got 60 kmpl,but after the first service, the average fell drastically to 45 - and has remained at that level ever since - even though there has been no change in my driving or handling style. I drive quite carefully at 40-45 kmph, without excessive braking or changing of gears.

3) Another issue with the bike is that it is only 110cc,9.5 bhp which is too low even for a non-racing type like me.One has to shift to 4th gear in the 40's and if you happen to exceed 55-60, you can easily sense the strain on the engine, as if it would break down any moment. (Probably thats the reason why I don't drive fast on it :-) )

4) The braking leaves a lot to be desired. Also the bike has a tendency to skid a bit when you apply the brakes at a speed of above 35-40 kmph

5) The price of 41990 is CERTAINLY NOT justified for this bike, especially when you can get better, more powerful bikes like wind etc for the same price.

Now let me list a few good things about it:

1) First and foremost - the looks. Many ppl may not agree with me, but I feel that the victor GLX has the best looks in its class (splendor, max100r, centra, wind etc). It looks quite sleek and well styled.

2) It is quite comfortable to handle and ride, even for short ppl.

3) The shock absorbers are really good.One doent feel the bumps on the road.

All in all, I didn't find it that great a bike and would recommend wind instead of it (they are the same price)