The Honda Activa has been a household name in India for over two decades, synonymous with reliable and efficient urban transportation.
With the launch of the Activa 6G, Honda has once again raised the bar in the scooter segment.
This article delves into the various aspects of the Honda Activa 6G, exploring its features, performance, and impact on the two-wheeler market.
A Brief History of the Activa
Before we dive into the specifics of the 6G model, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane.
The Honda Activa was first introduced in India in 2001, and it quickly became a game-changer in the scooter market.
Its combination of style, reliability, and fuel efficiency made it an instant hit among urban commuters.
Over the years, Honda has continuously evolved the Activa, introducing new features and improvements with each generation.
The 6G model, launched in 2020, represents the culmination of years of research, development, and customer feedback.
Design and Aesthetics
Exterior Styling
The Activa 6G boasts a sleek and modern design that builds upon the classic Activa look while incorporating contemporary elements.
The front fascia features a redesigned LED headlamp with a distinctive chrome accent, giving the scooter a premium appearance.
The side profile maintains the familiar Activa silhouette but with sharper lines and more defined contours.
Color Options
Honda offers the Activa 6G in a range of attractive colors to suit various tastes:
Glitter Blue Metallic
Pearl Spartan Red
Black
Dazzle Yellow Metallic
Pearl Precious White
Matte Axis Grey Metallic
These color options allow buyers to choose a shade that best reflects their personality and style preferences.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The Activa 6G has been designed with rider comfort in mind. The seat is spacious and well-padded, providing ample support for both the rider and pillion.
The floorboard is flat and offers plenty of legroom, making it comfortable for riders of various heights.
Engine and Performance
Engine Specifications
At the heart of the Activa 6G lies a 109.51cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine.
This powerplant is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, two factors that have contributed significantly to the Activa’s popularity over the years.
Key engine specifications:
- Displacement: 109.51cc
- Maximum Power: 7.79 PS @ 8000 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 8.79 Nm @ 5250 rpm
- Fuel System: PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Fuel Efficiency
One of the standout features of the Activa 6G is its impressive fuel efficiency. Honda claims a mileage of 60 km/l under standard test conditions.
While real-world figures may vary depending on riding conditions and style, many users report getting between 50-55 km/l in city riding conditions.
Performance and Riding Experience
The Activa 6G offers smooth and refined performance, ideal for urban commuting.
The engine provides adequate power for quick acceleration from traffic lights and easy maneuverability in congested city streets.
The scooter can comfortably cruise at speeds of 60-70 km/h, making it suitable for short highway stretches as well.
Features and Technology
Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) Technology
The Activa 6G incorporates Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology, which optimizes engine performance and efficiency. This technology includes:
ACG Starter: Ensures silent and jolt-free engine starts
Programmed Fuel Injection: Improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions
Friction Reduction Technology: Enhances engine longevity and performance
LED Lighting
The scooter features an all-LED lighting setup, including:
LED headlamp with position lamp
LED tail lamp
LED turn indicators
This not only enhances visibility but also adds to the premium look of the scooter.
Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster
The Activa 6G comes with a part-digital, part-analog instrument cluster that displays:
Speedometer
Odometer
Fuel gauge
Service due indicator
Eco indicator
Other Notable Features
External Fuel Filler Cap: Allows for easy refueling without opening the seat
Engine Start/Stop Switch: Convenient for brief stops at traffic signals
Side Stand Indicator with Engine Inhibitor: Prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is down
Multi-function Key Slot: Integrates seat opening, ignition, and fuel lid opening functions
Comfort and Convenience
Suspension and Ride Quality
The Activa 6G features telescopic front forks, a significant upgrade from the trailing link suspension of its predecessor.
This, combined with the 3-step adjustable rear suspension, provides a comfortable ride even on uneven road surfaces.
Storage Space
Under-seat storage has always been a strong point for the Activa, and the 6G continues this tradition.
The 18-liter storage compartment can easily accommodate a full-face helmet or other daily essentials.
Convenience Features
Mobile Charging Socket: Available as an optional accessory
Front Hook: Useful for hanging small bags or groceries
Retractable Rear Hook: Provides additional carrying capacity when needed
Safety Features
Braking System
The Activa 6G comes equipped with Honda’s Combi Brake System (CBS) with equalizer, which distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels for more effective stopping power.
Drum brakes are standard on both wheels, with an option for a front disc brake on select variants.
Wider Tires
The scooter features 12-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels with tubeless tires, offering better stability and grip compared to its predecessor.
Pass Switch
A pass switch is included for safer overtaking on highways.
Environmental Considerations
BS6 Compliance
The Activa 6G is compliant with the Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms, making it more environmentally friendly than its predecessors.
The PGM-FI system ensures optimal fuel combustion, reducing harmful emissions.
Idle Start-Stop System
This feature automatically turns off the engine when the scooter is stationary for more than three seconds, reducing fuel consumption and emissions in stop-and-go traffic.
Market Position and Competition
The Honda Activa 6G continues to be a market leader in the scooter segment, facing competition from models such as:
TVS Jupiter
Suzuki Access 125
Hero Maestro Edge 125
Yamaha Fascino 125
Despite stiff competition, the Activa’s brand value, reliability, and extensive service network have helped it maintain its position as one of the best-selling two-wheelers in India.
Price and Variants
The Honda Activa 6G is available in two variants:
Standard
Deluxe
Prices may vary depending on the location and dealership, but typically range from INR 70,000 to INR 75,000 (ex-showroom).
Honda Activa 6G
The Honda Activa 6G represents a significant evolution in the Activa lineage.
It builds upon the strengths of its predecessors while introducing modern features and technologies that cater to the needs of today’s urban commuters.
With its refined engine, improved ride quality, and enhanced features, the Activa 6G continues to set the benchmark in the scooter segment.
Its blend of style, efficiency, and reliability makes it an attractive option for a wide range of users, from college students to working professionals and families.
As urban mobility continues to evolve, the Honda Activa 6G stands as a testament to Honda’s commitment to providing practical, efficient, and reliable transportation solutions.
Whether you’re a long-time Activa fan or considering your first scooter purchase, the Activa 6G offers a compelling package that’s hard to overlook.
It’s not just a scooter; it’s a lifestyle choice that has become an integral part of India’s urban landscape.