QUICK RIDE
TVS Motors ditched all of Philip Kotler’s teachings and let their product do all the talking
A quick review of TVS’ 125cc NTorq and Bajaj Discover 110
WHEN A MANUFACTURER DOES not bombard you with the usual marketing spiel but lets the product do the talking, it shows just how much confidence the company has in its product. Such was the case with the new TVS NTorq 125.
What’s new?
Everything. It is powered by a 9.3bhp and 10.5Nm 124.79cc air-cooled single with three valves and SOHC. This new engine sits in a new high rigidity rectangular tube type underbone chassis. Again, spanking new. Body panels are all new as well and even though the design at the front end isn’t out of the box and the rear is polarising, the NTorq is a handsome scooter.
What else?
It is also very practical. There’s a USB charging port, a small bottle holder and a light in the underseat stowage. Quality levels are excellent too.
The party piece
The all-digital instrumentation looks great and lends a premium touch. The NTorq also gets Smart Xconnect, which allows the rider to pair his phone via the NTorq app that can be downloaded from Android’s Play Store and used for sat nav directions, a first on any scooter sold in India. The system also has a lap timer, while the scooter itself offers the choice between Street and Sport modes.
From the saddle
Ergonomics and riding posture felt natural to me. Shorter riders however may have difficulties in getting both feet on the ground since the footboard is wider than others in its segment. On the go, it is effortless. The grunt has been spread evenly and the CVT works like a charm. Be it on the long straights of the test track or on the long sweeping right-handed parabola, dynamic ability is confidence inspiring. Yet, TVS has managed to keep the ride quality surprisingly supple. For braking, TVS has put a 220mm petal disc up front while the rear gets a drum. There is plenty of feel from the lever and bite at the disc for it to stop without unnecessary drama.
The verdict
The NTorq 125 blends excitement, performance, ability, style and practicality into one neat package. And at `58,750, exshowroom, is a very compelling proposition.