As the scooter market is booming in India, it is not uncommon to see more and more of them on the streets. Majority of these buyers are youngsters who are looking for stylish scooters, which are light on pockets too. In order to grab these potential customers, TVS motor company has introduced “Ntorq”, which is the first 125cc scooter from the Chennai-based two-wheeler manufacturers. We recently got a chance to ride Ntorq, so does it click all the right boxes?
Design
When TVS first showcased Ntorq, the company said that the design of this 125cc has been inspired by stealth fighter jets. At first glance, it does look sharp with all its panel and edges. The company wanted to target the young customers, so they kept the overall styling as such. View it from the front and you will find a well-placed headlamp with batwing styled LED daytime running light (DRLs). Though it would have been even better if it had LED headlamps too. At the rear, the first thing that you will notice is the triangular faux vents flanking the tail lamp, which adds to its sportier feel along with faux carbon fibre finish and aluminium footpegs. The overall design itself is fresh and likeable.
Features
TVS claims that the Ntorq is loaded with features, which is first in its class. As soon as you switch on the ignition, you will see a personalized welcome message on its 5-inch fully digital console that displays lap timer, a 0-60km/h acceleration recorder, a top speed recorder, engine temperature, average speed and service reminder. The Ntorq 125 also gets Bluetooth technology 'Smart Xonnect' to sync the instrument console with your mobile phone and you can see various details like incoming call alerts, SMS alerts, missed call alerts, high-speed alert, phone battery, signal strength, trip report and last parked location. Ntorq also offers you to customise the app to send out an auto-reply message when you’re riding and also have the option of 'do not disturb’. One distinguishing feature that this 125cc scooter offers is navigation assist, which relays directions on the console along with the time of arrival and distance remaining. The under seat storage has a capacity of 22 litres with a USB charger.
Engine
The NTorq 125 gets 124.79 cc single-cylinder, three valves, air-cooled motor that generates 9.5 bhp of max power at 7,500 rpm and 10.5 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm that makes it go 0-60 km/h in 7 seconds (which we will talk about later). Its all-new engine helps it to attain a top speed of 95 km/h and approx fuel efficiency of 50 km/l. It also gets 12-inch wheels with a 100/80 tyre at the front and a 110/80 tyre at the rear. There is also a 220 mm disc up front. It also features telescopic suspension up front and a gas-charged coil spring at the rear.
Performance
If we talk about the unique selling point (USP), this category scores a distinction. Its all-new engine can definitely generate speed. On an open road, the Ntorq managed to touch 95 km/h but we would recommend to keep it less than 80 km/h, as its light body is not made to withstand high-speed wind blast. Its 0-60 km/h acceleration can be achieved in 7 seconds, which is not bad at all, but a little more pep would have been welcome. The first thing that you will notice about the new 125cc motor is its refinement. Between the speed of 70-80km/h, there are hardly any vibrations. But once you crossed 90 km/h only then you will feel a minor buzz from the footboard.
Final Call
All in all, the new Ntorq ticks all the right boxes for its potential buyers. It is stylish and good looking but doesn’t compromise on the practical aspect. Its all new engine provides refinement and comes packed with a smooth low and midrange making it a reasonably powerful. What could appeal most to the young buyers is its fully loaded features. the Ntorq will directly compete with brands like Suzuki Burgman/Access, Aprilia SR 125, Hero Maestro/Edge and Honda Grazia. But let's talk about its closest competition. With a price tag of Rs 58,750 (ex-showroom), TVS has managed to keep it cheaper than the Honda Grazia (Disc version) that costs Rs 62,505 (ex-showroom Delhi) and almost equal to the segment leader Suzuki Access that is available at Rs 58,350 (ex-showroom Delhi). So if budget is your priporty, you can always check out the rivals of Ntorq, which we have just mentioned. On the other hand, Ntorq has the edge with ‘Smart Xonnect’ that provides navigation facility and a powerful engine. So if you’re looking to buy a quick, stylish, powerful scooter loaded with features, Ntorq 125 will be a good choice.
