For the last few years, the 125cc scooter segment in India gained popularity due to an increased demand from urban commuters for power, features and comfort which are more features driven and do not lead degradation in fuel efficiency; which has commanded commendable growth.
So far, the TVS Jupiter 125 has been a major talking point in the segment and this scooter proved to be quite popular with riders due to its thoughtful design, blazes performance and well thought out features.
This is a vast review of what makes TVS Jupiter 125 such a strong contender for Indian consumers desirous of a premium scooter experience which incorporate well conceived and judiciously used everyday practicalism with the modern features.
Design and Styling
The TVS Jupiter 125 with the design comes across as simultaneous loads of edgy couple with practicable ergonomics. Some clear-cut rivals however compromise on functionality more than their looks like most TVS has hit oh so sweetly with the Jupiter 125.
In scooter, you get the clean lines and flowing attitude without any aggressive element or polarizing design which I am a great fan of. Upmarket appeal is enhanced by tasteful chrome detailing on the front apron and side panels; LED headlamp with Daylight running light signature that enhances visibility and differentiates the scooter from road.
TVS’s practical details in the design are best represented by this one special:
- Pictures of body panels were moulded to reduce splash-back during monsoon riding
- The floor board opens up to serve as a large flat surface with anti-skid braids
- Contour seat for longer rides as well
- The pillion gets roomy seating and appropriately located grab rails
Jupiter 125 is available in Starlight Blue, Titanium Grey, Pristine White and other simple world advanced colour so that rider can choose a color according to her/his personality.
Storage Solutions
Like it or not scooter buyers have to concern about storage, and the Jupiter 125 defines this segment with a massive class-leading 21 liters under seat storage. You get a wide airy space that can hold a full-face helmet with other small personal stuff – Quite handy for daily commutes, really.
Also, TVS has packed some added utilities apart from the under-seat storage:
- Under-seat storage: Front glove box with USB charging port (STIHL option)
- For attaching small bags on the handlebars with utility hooks
- External fuel cap that automatically unlocks and removes the seat when refueling
Intricate storage solutions that really go to show TVS last scoop for practicality of the usual scooter rider.
Engine Performance and efficiency
Underneath the Jupiter 125 engine is an evolved 124.8cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor that combines performance and average economy like no other. It churns out 8.3 bhp at 6,500 rpm and then snarls into life with 10.5 Nm of torque from an uncommunicative 4500 rev engine that promises bold acceleration and easy city cruising.
The engine uses the latest TVS ETFi ( Ecothrust Fuel injection) and smoothens delivery of fuel with slightest change in riding conditions. It not only enhances performance, but also affects the extremely impressive fuel consumption numbers. The real-world riding performance of Jupiter 125 gives you mileage anything between 55-60 kms per liter, which makes it economical king in the 125cc segment.
Jupiter 125 : The real powertrain refinement
Nothing in the powertrain of Jupiter 125 could be more refined than the vibration-free engine operation and CVT delivery of acceleration which a gear-shifted drive system usually does not offer. It also infuses the experience with a bit of luxury via the silent start system.
Ride Quality and Handling
Ride quality is the single largest factor in whether a daily commuter decides to own their scooter or not. This Jupiter 125 has pretty decent suspension setup in terms of telescopic front forks and hydraulic rear shock absorber which is like a 3-step adjustable kind.
The tubeless front wheel (12-inch) and rear-wheel (10 inches) of the scooter serve stability at high speeds, but also are small enough to allow agile maneuvering on sidewalks with traffic. 165mm ground clearance that takes care of hitting most speed breakers and uneven road surfaces, even without a hit to the underside.
Seated position is upright and comfortable, the handlebar height should be good for a long-time riding to reduce wrist-strain. The saddle is wide and well cushioned, comfortable for both rider and pillion making two a fine experience.
Feature Highlights
Jupiter 125 has its own set of features (some of those are not found on the basic and friendliest variant coming)
- Digital-analog speedometer with econometer
- LED headlamp (flashing and automatic on (AHO))
- Mobile phone connectivity (in top variant) alert via ring/SMS on phone call
- Engine kill switch and side stand assist
- Combined Braking System (CBS) for smoother braking performance
- Under-seat Storage Compartment: Boot Light
- External fuel filler cap
- Parking brake lock.
A few other upscale features are thrown in for the premium ZX variant (Bluetooth, turn-a-turn navigation alerts and USB charger port suitable to an int net savvy crowd).
Good Safety Features
In the design of Jupiter 125 ample thought was put to safety. Combined Braking System (CBS) CBS System CBS is a system for distributing friction force between both front and rear wheels when rear wheel brake is pulled, thus making emergency stop riding stable and effortless.
The top variant comes with a 190mm front disc brake and 130mm rear drum brake, supply solid stops at high pace for the top variant. The other ones have drum brakes in both ends, but that you can use them city street riding.
Maintenance & Reliability
TVS does a good job of producing two-wheelers and the Jupiter 125 is blessed with this thoroughbred engineering (of course these are my own ideas). Scooter needs an interval of 3000 km servicing and major services at 12,000 kms.
1000 plus TVS service network across India is a small cake walk for the owner since there is no dearth of service centers to get maintenance. Parts is taken care and its an overall reasonably priced option when compared to competition.
Most owners report long term reliability as well, with little finding many customers when the product was in use over a long period. Durability is an engine with good protection of electrical components against moisture and dust ingress.
Verdict
If you are looking for a practical and premium 125cc scooter, the TVS Jupiter 125 is a very good option. Best aspects of this are huge storage space, smooth engine, nice to ride ride and subtle features that suggest ownership.
Extremely pragmatic add-ons right from fuel filler being outside in the open, to large enough floor board speaks volumes about the TVS understands what Indian scooter user wants. The best fuel efficiency (compared to 110cc scooters in fact) makes even the higher initial cost worthwhile the longer you drive your TVS Jupiter 125, reduced fuel bills.
At a relatively affordable amount and intended to give you an alternative to your basic scooter but not so much in the higher 150cc + segment the TVS Jupiter 125 is great for urban commuters. It is an advanced offering that does what it says on the tin so as well engineered style, power and efficiency.
