Honda Activa 7G: “Scooter” in India is synonymous with the Honda Activa brand. Right from college kiddos to office-goers – and even aging codgers – the Activa has always served as the ideal choice for no-nonsense, dependable, and hassle-free commuting.
The Activa 7G from Honda intends to take this legacy ahead, with minor yet significant updates.
Although one of the best selling, does the Activa 7G continue with honors in the competition, when the segment is filled with tech-laden scooters and electric counterparts? Let’s find out.
Honda Activa 7G Design and Looks: Incremental updates rather than drastic overhauls
The Activa 7G looks familiar at the first glance, alongside the silhouette that is more or less a carryover from its earlier generations. Honda has not opted for a dramatic design overhaul — and that’s by design.
Stylish enough for conservative tastes. That being said, tiny design tweaks – such as new LED headlamp units and crisper body panels – and updated lit indicators certainly give the 7G a classier, more premium look.
The body is still metal, which is still one of Activa’s USP over the plastic-framed competition. This not only contributes to longevity, it also provides the scooter with a more substantial touch.
Hands-On Features and Technology: Made to Be Hands-On
Honda has been slowly introducing modern elements to the Activa series and the 7G moves forward on that.
The instrument console is now semi-digital with an analog speedometer and a small digital screen which displays fuel gauge, trip meter, and odometer.
Key upgrades include:
Silent Start with ACG Motor
Smart Key System with Push Button Start (higher trims)
Side-stand engine cut-off
Engine Start/Stop switch
Combi Brake System (CBS)
Sure, it doesn’t boast the latest TFT display or Bluetooth pairing but it’s full of features that make all the difference when it comes to safety, convenience and time to time use.
Engine & Performance Smooth and dependable
Below the seat, the Activa 7G continues with Honda’s proven 109.51cc single-cylinder engine, however it has been re-tuned for improved refinement and fuel efficiency. It churns out, approximately 7.79 PS of power and 8.84 Nm of torque which provides hassle free ride in city.
The engine comes mated to a CVT gearbox that results in jerk-free power transmission. It’s not the quickest off the line, but it’s adjusted for linear performance – ideal for coping with crowded urban traffic.
Honda quotes a fuel efficiency of over 55 kmpl, and in real-world conditions, that’s almost what the scooter delivers — making it pocket friendly for everyday commuters.
Ride Quality & Comfort Classic Honda Balance: The Interceptor’s 43mm inverted front forks offer a plush ride and exceptional traction on all types of road surfaces.
The ride quality is why the Activa series still ticks. The telescopic front suspension and 3-step adjustable rear suspension of the 7G continue to be the same and absorb most of the bad the roads throw at you.
The seat height of 765mm also makes the scooter friendly for the shorter riders. The floorboard is roomy, and the under-seat storage can fit a half-face helmet or a bag of groceries.
This is good, predictable and light at low speeds. Sporty isn’t what the 7G is trying to be—it’s for effortlessly moving around town.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Proven, reliable Honda engine
Comfortable ride quality
Instead of plastic body panels, they will come with metal counterparts for more robustness
Silent start system
Smart key is available in upper trims
Excellent Resale Value, National Network of dealerships
Cons
No major design changes
No Bluetooth or navigation, big or ‘modern’ features
Some competing engines are more powerful
No disc brake option
Top varianct is just costing slightly premium pubs, bars would be like this only.
Honda Activa 7G Final Verdict
The Honda Activa 7G doesn’t attempt to change the wheel and that’s the best thing about it. It takes everything that makes the Activa popular to a whole new level in terms of fit and finish, quality, luxury and refinement.
It might lack in tech or power, but not in everyday usability and Honda’s age-old image of reliability and long-lasting products.
If you’re in the market for a scooter which does twenty-odd things very well and has a history of not letting down owners, the Activa 7G is still among the best in the segment.