Honda Activa 7G: The Honda Activa is more than just a scooter – it’s a brand that has now become synonymous with daily commuting in India.
It has dominated the scooter market for more than 20 years for its reliability, efficient maintenance and ease of use.
Now, with the new Activa 7G, the manufacturer pushes the envelope a bit more by implementing some minor yet significant tweaks to make the scooter easier to live with every day, more convenient and more tech-savvy—all without losing sight of what made the series such a strong seller in the first place.
Familiar Yet Fresh Design
The Honda Activa 7G is not a radical departure in terms of looks when it comes to the previous versions of Activa, but it does have a few new refreshing changes.
The body panels continue to be the smooth and plain design that Activa has always been hailed for, however, with new graphics, chrome touches and more contemporary looking LED headlamp design, the 7G looks slightly sharper.
Despite the difference in age group, it retains the adult, modern look that the old classic had and is suitable for everyone, including college students, middle aged people and old riders.
A generally upright and workmanlike position also suit this to city commuting and errands.
Refreshed features and tech tweaks
It is in the feature list that the Activa 7G goes an extra mile. Now it gains a semi-digital instrument console which presents speed, trip, fuel and other essential points in a more contemporary fashion.
The top-end variant also gets the Honda Smart Key system which adds keyless ignition, remote start, anti-theft alarm, and find-my-scooter feature, thereby adding a lot of convenience to everyday living.
It’s also got an external fuel filler cap, which, like the Activa 6G, makes it convenient to refuel without having to lift the seat.
It also features some sensible details including the large under seat storage compartment (18 litres), front hook and optional USB socket for mobile devices.
Tested Powerplant, Even More Powerful The 4-cylinder powerplant has been once again tested and proven in the market.
The Activa 7G gets the same 109.51cc motor as its predecessor and the previous Activa 6G. It makes close to 7.7 bhp and 8.9 Nm of torque and comes coupled with a CVT automatic.
Those are modest numbers, but the refinement, butter-smooth operation and predictable throttle response is what this little engine does best.
The powered little scooter pulls away smoothly and does not vibrate, not even at high speeds. Perfect for city traffic, short hwy hops and tight city streets.
Its 50–55 km/litre mileage helps in keeping the running cost low which would be otherwise on the higher side compared to other models in the same category.
Ride Quality and Handling
The Activa 7G retains the high rigidity underbone frame, yet rides comfortably thanks to a telescopic front fork and 3-Step adjustable rear suspension.
It soaks up the bumps well and takes potholes and speed breakers in its stride.
Good stability thanks to its 12-inch (front) and 10-inch (rear) wheels, mutually, when we speak about riding up with a pillion.
The scooter has a responsive feeling and also overall very light making parking and manoeuvring through traffic a breeze.
Standard Combi-Brake System (CBS) enhances braking safety, ensure that the braking force is more safely distributed to the front and rear wheels simultaneously.
Safety and Build Quality
Unsurprisingly, the Activa 7G is extremely well built and finished, as you’d expect from Honda.
The plastics are robust, and the switchgear is responsive and in just the right place.
A host of safety features in the form of the engine kill switch, CBS and LED lights make the rider feel more confident, particularly, the newbies.
It does not have ABS (not standard for this engine size), though, is good enough for city riding situations.
Pros:
An engine of the utmost refinement and economy
Reliable and a trustworthy brand with a gigantic service network
Simple to learn to ride, with a very practical range of movement suitable for all ages
The Smart Key feature makes for a surprisingly convenient experience
Superb fit and finish with good resale value
Cons:
More conservative look than sportier competitors
Even the tippy top model won’t have any disc brakes
No Bluetooth connectivity or full digital console
Little power for highway passing
10-inch rear wheel, marginal reduction in ride quality
Honda Activa 7G: Final Verdict
The Honda Activa 7G is no different than what it has always been good at – practical, fuss-free commuting with sensible features and good mileage.
It may not be the sexiest or most gizmo-filled scooter around, but it wins where it counts for daily riders. Whether you’re purchasing your first or replacing an old one, the Activa 7G continues to be among the few consistently reliable, safe and sensible options for every Indian household.