TVS Ntorq 125 review – The TVS scooter every youngster wants

Scooters are all the rage in our market today, which is no big surprise, given the multitude of them seen on our roads. It reminds us of when motorcycles once topped the sales charts in the early ’90s. However, a majority of Indian scooter buyers have preferred 110cc scooters, mostly for family use purpose. But with the times changing and youngsters being pampered by their parents, there has been a demand for fun and fast scooters as well. A lot of manufacturers have taken note, and TVS is one of them. In 2018, TVS launched the Ntorq 125cc scooter – a first from TVS and it sure packs a punch, as we find out.

Strike ’em

It is said that the design of the Ntorq has been inspired by a stealth bomber – and while that may be a bit too much of an exaggeration – we definitely think it looks sharp and sporty. The aggressive-looking apron up-front features a V-shaped headlight, but it isn’t a LED unit. You do, however, get LED DRLs. We like how the tail has been designed, featuring a T-shaped LED tail light with faux vents on either side. Even the indicator signals at the rear are neatly integrated. We like the carbon-fibre lookalike finish for the plastic panels, but we think there’s a bit too much of it; the mildly visible lines make up for it though. The pillion gets solid grab rails to hold on to, and are functional too.

A few other bits stood out as well, like the chunky exhaust and rather nice-looking multi-spoke alloy wheels in gloss black. The handlebar feels good to hold and the bar-ends get a silver finish. The all-digital console is nice and big; also, this is the first locally-made scooter to come with an engine kill-switch. Other features include a reserve fuel lamp, pass light switch, power and eco mode indicator, under-seat light and a USB charger. The most convenient feature we found was the external fuel-filler cap. And under-seat storage, at 22-litres, is decent.

Power scoot

The 125cc engine is super refined – and even at a speed of 70-80kph, vibrations barely filter through. Push it beyond 90 kph though, and you’ll find the foot-board giving out some vibes. We’ve got to hand to the folks at TVS Bikes, for they have nailed it as far as NVH levels are concerned. The engine also features 3-valve tech, which includes two intake ports and an exhaust port. This has resulted in better frugality and combustion efficiency. Fuel economy figures are at par with its contenders. Throttle response could’ve been better as we found acceleration lacking in zeal. You can manage to hit a top speed of 95kph on this thing.

Riding manners

The Ntorq 125 uses an under-bone-type frame, like the one on the Jupiter. Gone is the circular tube and in comes a rectangular tube – this helps adding stiffness to the frame. The Ntorq from TVS Bikes gets plastic panels but weighs 116kgs. Thank fully, this hasn’t come in the way of handling dynamics, ensuring the scooter stays glued to the tarmac around corners. The turning radius of the TVS Ntorq 125 is impressive and the high-set handlebar is very comfortable to reach. Ride quality is excellent, striking a perfect balance between being too stiff or soft. The amount of foam used for the seat is just right and doesn’t make your bottom ache on long rides. This scooter also features petal discs up-front and a drum unit at the back. Both brakes offer good bite.

Tech check

In the 5-inch screen, over 30 parameters can be displayed. It gets a lap timer, a top speed recorder, service reminder, 0-60kph acceleration recorder and engine temperature. The TVS Ntorq 125 also features ‘Smart Xonnect’, which uses Bluetooth to pair the instrument console with your smartphone. With the help of the TVS Ntorq app, you can access various functions like high speed alert, last parked location, incoming call alerts, phone battery and signal strength, and a whole lot more. The app can also be customised to send auto reply text messages while riding, saying ‘do not disturb’. Another feature is navigation assist. You get a lot of fancy stuff on this scooter.

Cheque, Sir?

There’s absolutely nothing not to like about the TVS Ntorq 125. It’s a complete package that will appeal to buyers young and young at heart, both. And let’s not forget that it’s one of the most feature-laden scooters on the market, making it excellent value. Also, grab the latest info on the upcoming scooters, only at autoX.