The Aviator is a sequel that Honda hopes will supplement the Activa and appeal to males who desire the same economy and reliability with an extra-premium feel.

Style file

The new Honda uses a clever combination of strengthened ABS to help keep weight down, and metal for parts where strength is of the essence. The top-end model incorporates upmarket 5-spoke alloy rims, as well as a front disc brake. Frontal styling is conservative, if a bit boring, with a bulbous front apron housing flush-fitting clear lens indicators. While a dual colour paint scheme adds some style, the headlight nacelle is arguably bland, although it provides a bright and well-spread beam.

The Aviator deploys attractive instruments, with its speedometer stacked above the fuel gauge and calibrated up to 120kph. Both counters use smartly illuminated needle pointers. Those familiar with the Activa family will find the Aviator’s switches, mirrors and levers identical to operate. Honda has wisely provided this scooter with the safety of a rear brake locking clamp. Where they have cut corners though, is in the omission of front storage space, as well as the absence of a frontal fuel filling pod that is fast gaining popularity on Indian scooters. Under the Aviator seat sits a lockable storage bay capable of accommodating a small helmet.

The Aviator enjoys a broad floorboard, behind which sit exquisitely detailed pillion footrests. This scooter looks best when viewed from behind. Its running boards blend harmoniously into chic rear panels, with an adventurous-looking tail deploying a very tasteful light cluster. Fine detail can be appreciated in the Aviator’s lightly-stepped seat, smoothly-contoured engine cases and dual material grab-handle.

It takes a light press towards the centre of the seat to lock it, rather than pressure closer to the rear as is the case with the Activa and Dio. The Aviator possesses top-class fit-finish and all-round quality.

Under the hood

Honda has decided to stick with their time-tested 102cc engine to power the Aviator. This has merits, for while the industry is shifting towards the enhanced performance of relatively powerful 125cc powerplants, they are always going to be hard-pressed to provide the fuel economy of a smaller-capacity scooter.

The 4-stroke Aviator possesses a self-starter button as well as kick-starter, and uses a force air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that operates two valves. It puts out a modest 7bhp of maximum power at 7000rpm, and 0.8kgm of peak torque at 5500rpm. The highlight of this engine has always been its silken power spread, with glitch-free delivery and rock-solid reliability. While that is still very much a part of the Aviator, we did feel an incremental improvement in the lower end of the powerband. Our acceleration test found the Aviator able to reach 60kph in 9.95 seconds. Top speed is a true 84kph.

Driver’s deal

Although the Aviator sticks with the use of a tubular chassis and stressed engine, it enjoys a 12-inch front wheel and suspension that has upgraded to telescopic forks.

The riding position is nice, proving roomy and comfortable even for tall, full size adult riders. This scooter feels higher than an Activa, and has a ride quality that is well sorted. It turns into and goes round corners very well thanks to the larger rim, and stays better planted on rough roads. The Aviator provides surefooted and blade-sharp stops thanks to its new disc brake. It tracks true even under hard braking.

Riders migrating to the Aviator from an Activa or Dio may take a while to get used to its superior braking behaviour, for added to the extra stopping power now at hand, it dives like a motorcycle under braking. As expected, the test figures are nearly identical to an Activa, the Aviator providing 42.7kpl in city riding conditions, and 46.1kpl when riding at 60kph on a highway.

Final verdict

At first glance it's easy to mistake the Aviator as a clone of the Activa, but there's more. Decent style surrounds the proven Honda engine famous for smooth operation, solid reliability and good economy. Also, the improved suspension and stronger brakes show why Honda looks ready to soar ever higher.

spec check

Honda Aviator

Price: Rs 40,731/44,235* (ex-showroom Pune)
Type: Single cylinder, force air-cooled, 4 stroke
No of cylinders: One
Engine displacement: 102cc
Maximum power: 7bhp at 7000rpm
Maximum torque: 0.8kgm at 5500rpm
Transmission: variomatic
Tyres: 90/90 x 12 — 3.50 x 10 inches
Fuel tank capacity: 8 litres
Fuel efficiency: 44.4kpl
Length: 1802mm
Width: 707mm
Height: 1162mm
Wheel base: 1256mm
Ground clearance: 145mm
Vehicle kerb weight: 102kg
Max speed: 84kph (claimed)