Honda Aviator 2020 Review - Prices, Specs, Variants, Features and Mileage

How well does the Honda Aviator showcase Japanese engineering?

How robust is the engine in Aviator?

It needs to be mentioned that the older Aviator used to deliver 7.1 BHP with its 102cc engine while the newer 109cc Aviator returns 8 bhp at 8000rpm and peak torque of 8.94 Nm at 5500rpm. Interestingly, the older model offered more punch in acceleration than the powerful newer model with larger displacement.

Comparing to similar capacity bikes, fuel efficiency is a weak point of every gearless scooter. City riding at moderate speeds returns  40 kmpl. Highway riding at an average 50kmph with definitely give you 45kmpl. The new 109cc Aviator boasts of 15 percent more efficiency.

How quick is the Aviator from 0-60?

Aviator's optimum power delivery is linear and responds to throttle quickly. The low-end torque is satisfactory compared to the Activa which shifts seamlessly. The Aviator gearbox is different unlike another scooter with CVT. It lags after 40 kmph and again takes up speed after 55 kmph. 

 The top speed of 82 kmph might sound silly, but it gets stuck to vibrations after the 80 kmph mark. The engine remains smooth and relaxed in 40-60 kmph range. You can see traces of Aviator in Maestro Edge, believing the past relation with Hero. TVS Jupiter and Hero Maestro Edge are slower to the 60 kmph mark but have a higher top speed comparatively.

How are the Brakes?

The Honda Aviator gets awesome braking and suspension system. The Aviator Deluxe sports a 130 mm drum or 190 mm disc brake at the front wheels while the rear wheels are accompanied with130 mm drum brake. Similarly, the Aviator Standard comes well equipped with 130 mm drum brakes on the front and rear. The brakes are responsive and stable even while traveling at high speed or carrying luggage. 

How comfortable is the new Aviator?

The seating is very comfortable and remains compact. This gives you more confidence while riding along. Since the seats are of cushion type, it gives more comfortable for long and short journeys to both rider and pillion. The footpegs and footrests are also quite large enough. The under-seat storage capacity of 20 litres is decent to carry a full-face helmet or bag. 

 The scooter gets an alloy wheels comprised of front 12 inch and rear 10 inch.The big tyre size returns greater control on roads and reduces the rate of skid.  The scooter also comes with telescopic suspension at the front and unit swing spring-loaded hydraulic damper suspension at the rear. This suspension system enhances the quality and comfort of the ride at high speeds.

How similar does the Honda Aviator look?

Honda Aviator is one of the tallest scooters compared to other similar bikemakers which looks very smart and stylish providing aerodynamic design. The front panel is really attractive with a blingy chrome panel (offered in the deluxe model) adding more style. The rear part gets muscular lines sweeping upwards accompanied with  rear lamp cluster. Even the turn indicators give it an elegant appearance. 

Aesthetic Features

• CBS with Equalizer

• HET Engine with BS-IV

• Classic Chrome Front

• 4-In-1 Lock With Seat Opening Switch

• Royal Seat and Stylish Inner Cover

• LED Headlamp with LED Position Lamps

• Metal Muffler Cover

• Front Hook & Retractable Rear Hook

• Stylish Instrument Panel

 The instrument console packed with large and clear dials. The analogue speedometer and fuel gauge are crystal clear and easy to read. The switchgear is sourced from existing Honda scooters. The body color grab handle, front mudguard and side panel of the scooter add more practicality.

How safe is the Honda Aviator and what are the new features?

For better safety, the Honda Aviator has added a multi-focal headlamp with a 35-watt halogen lamp, adding more visibility in extremely dark situations. The scooter is fitted with the Honda tuff-up tubes which reduces the chance of tyre punctures. However, the scooter misses out on an advanced locking system.

TVS Jupiter surprised us here with the addition of smart xonnect feature in it. This seamlessly connects your smartphone with the instrument cluster to display information at a dynamic patch on it. Honda Aviator and Hero Maestro Edge have a similar set of features.

How does the competition stack up against this highly successful Honda?

Honda Aviator vs Hero Maestro Edge

Both of these manufacturers are the oldest players in the automatic scooter segment and the sale figures speak for it. Honda was the reason for Hero’s popularity earlier when they were together. But now, Hero is not able to create the same level of commotion as it did back in the day when it was “Hero Honda”. Honda is still riding high on its utterly reliable offering which has won over many and still manages to do so. 

Honda Aviator  vs TVS Jupiter BS6

TVS Jupiter resembles Honda Aviator in a lot of ways. It looks similar and uses the engine of the same character. TVS wanted to shake up the Indian market just like Honda did when it bought out the Aviator. It provides marginally more power as well as more mileage but suffers from reliability issues. Honda scores here and thus takes the podium.

How has Honda Aviator managed to become a household name?

With no doubt, the Aviator is the scooter for the enthusiast. It offers better aesthetics, goodies, wheels, suspension and with the same Honda HET engine. By taking out more power from the same engine, the bike maker has tried its best to gain a good market share in this highly competitive scooter segment.