Honda Dio 125

Dio 125 OVERVIEW & PRICE

PERFORMANCE & ENGINE

At the heart of the Honda Dio 125 lies a powerful, efficient 123.92 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This engine is not just about displacement; it’s a testament to Honda’s commitment to innovation and performance. The powerplant is OBD2-compliant and features Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology, incorporating several advanced elements to enhance overall performance. Key performance features include:

1. Power Output:The engine delivers a robust 6.09 kW @ 6250 rpm and 10.4 N-m @ 5000 rpm, providing ample power for quick acceleration and confident cruising
2. Top Speed: With a maximum speed of 85 kmph, the Dio 125 is well-equipped for city traffic and open roads.
3. Honda ACG Starter:This technology ensures quick and quiet starts, enhancing the riding experience.
4. Improved Combustion: The eSP technology optimizes combustion, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
5. Friction Reduction Mechanisms:These help improve the engine’s efficiency and longevity.

The Dio 125’s performance is further enhanced by its lightweight body and advanced suspension system. The combination of telescopic forks at the front and a mono-shock at the rear promises a smooth ride over various terrains, ensuring comfort during daily commutes or longer journeys.

MILEAGE & FUEL EFFICIENCY

Fuel efficiency is crucial for Indian consumers, and the Honda Dio 125 doesn’t disappoint. The scooter offers an impressive balance between performance and economy:

1. Claimed Mileage:Honda reports a fuel efficiency of 47 kmpl under standard testing conditions.
2. Real-World Efficiency:Some users have reported achieving up to 52 kmpl in real-world conditions. However, this can vary based on riding style and conditions.
3. Fuel Tank Capacity: With a 5.3-liter fuel tank, the Dio 125 offers a good range for urban commuting and occasional longer trips.

FEATURES & TECHNOLOGY

The 2024 Honda Dio 125 comes equipped with several modern features to enhance the riding experience:

1. LED Lighting: The Dio 125 features LED headlights and taillights, providing better visibility and a modern aesthetic.
2. Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital display offers essential information at a glance, including speed, fuel level, and trip details.
3. Combined Breaking System: This system ensures balanced braking between the front and rear wheels, enhancing safety during sudden stops.
4. Side-Stand Indicator with Engine Inhibitor: A safety feature that prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is down.
5. Stylish Design: The scooter maintains a sporty, aggressive design with sharp body panels and a dual outlet exhaust with a heat shield.
6. H-Smart Technology: This suite of smart features includes:

1 Smart Find: Helps locate the scooter in crowded parking areas.
2 Keyless Start: Allows for convenient engine start without inserting a key.
3 Enhanced Security: Provides additional anti-theft measures.

7. Anti-lock Braking System: While not explicitly mentioned, this is becoming a standard feature in many scooters and may be included in the Dio 125, especially in the Smart variant.
8. Robust Frame: The scooter’s sturdy frame enhances structural integrity and rider protection in case of accidents.
9. Enhanced Visibility:The LED lighting system improves the rider’s visibility and makes the scooter more noticeable to other road users, especially in low-light conditions.

HANDLING

Indian motorcycle reviewers and test ride reports have praised the Honda Dio 125’s handling characteristics. The scooter’s lightweight design and well-balanced chassis contribute to its agility, making it particularly adept at navigating congested city traffic. The suspension setup, featuring telescopic forks at the front and a mono-shock at the rear, plays a crucial role in the scooter’s handling dynamics. This configuration allows for a good balance between comfort and stability, ensuring that the Dio 125 remains composed over various road surfaces.

Reviewers have noted the scooter’s stability during cornering and its predictable behavior at higher speeds. The Combined Braking System (CBS) enhances safety by ensuring balanced braking between the front and rear wheels, which is particularly beneficial for less experienced riders. However, some users have reported that the suspension system could be improved to provide better comfort on particularly rough roads. Additionally, slight vibrations at higher speeds have been mentioned, though these are not universally reported issues.

COMFORT

Comfort is crucial for daily commuters, and the Honda Dio 125 addresses this aspect through several features. The scooter’s ergonomics have been designed to accommodate a wide range of rider heights, with a comfortable seating position allowing easy reach to the handlebars and foot controls. The seat is generously padded and offers ample space for the rider and a pillion passengers.

However, some taller riders have noted that extended journeys might require occasional breaks due to the limited space for stretching out. One of the standout comfort features is the spacious under-seat storage compartment, which adds to the scooter’s practicality for daily use. This storage space is large enough to accommodate a full-face helmet, making it convenient for commuters and short trips.

The digital instrument cluster is clearly visible and provides essential information at a glance, reducing rider fatigue during longer rides. Additionally, including the Idling Stop System in both variants contributes to a quieter and more comfortable experience during brief stops in traffic.

BUILD QUALITY

Honda has long been synonymous with reliability and durability, and the Dio 125 continues this tradition. The scooter’s construction utilizes high-quality materials such as steel, aluminum, and robust plastics, ensuring longevity and dependability. This attention to build quality translates into a scooter that can withstand the rigors of daily use in diverse Indian road conditions. Many riders appreciate the scooter’s sturdy feel, which instills confidence during rides.

The robust build quality contributes significantly to the scooter’s overall durability, with some users reporting minimal maintenance requirements for up to 35,000 km. However, it’s worth noting that some users have reported minor issues with specific components. For instance, there have been occasional complaints about the delicacy of the seat lock mechanism, suggesting that careful handling may be necessary to avoid damage. Despite these minor concerns, the consensus is that the Dio 125 offers excellent build quality for its price point.

STYLING

The Honda Dio 125 stands out in the crowded scooter market with its sporty and youthful design. The scooter features sharp lines and an aggressive stance that appeals to a younger demographic while maintaining a broad appeal across age groups. The Dio 125 is equipped with LED headlights and taillights, which enhance visibility and contribute to its modern aesthetic. The body panels’ aerodynamic design looks good and contributes to the scooter’s performance and fuel efficiency.

Stylish alloy wheels enhance the scooter’s premium look and feel. The fully digital display adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design. The dual outlet exhaust with a heat shield is a functional element that enhances the scooter’s sporty appearance. The Dio 125’s overall design language balances sportiness and practicality, making it an attractive option for style-conscious riders.

COLOR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS

The Honda Dio 125 is available in two main variants, catering to different consumer needs and preferences :

1. Dio 125 Standard
2. Dio 125 Smart

Honda has ensured that the Dio 125 appeals to a wide range of tastes by offering it in seven vibrant color options:

1. Mat Marvel Blue Metallic
2. Pearl Deep Ground Grey
3. Mat Axis Gray Metallic
4. Sports Red
5. Mat Sangria Red Metallic
6. Pearl Deep Ground Grey(Graphics)
7. Pearl Siren Blue
8. Pearl Nightstar Black

This diverse palette allows customers to choose a scooter that meets their functional needs and aligns with their personal style. The availability of these colors across both variants ensures that customers have ample choice regardless of which version they prefer.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Priced at ₹ 86,851 onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi), The Honda Dio 125 is available in two variants. This price positions the Dio 125 competitively in the 125cc scooter segment. Compared to rivals like the TVS NTORQ 125 and the Yamaha Fascino 125, the Dio 125 offers a balanced package. Key factors contributing to its value proposition include the Smart variant, which gives H-Smart Technology features like Smart Find, Keyless Start, and Enhanced Security.

These advanced features add significant value, especially for tech-savvy consumers. Honda’s reputation for reliability and quality is a substantial factor in the Dio 125’s value proposition. This translates to potentially lower maintenance costs and better resale value over time. Honda scooters are generally known for their fuel efficiency, which contributes to long-term cost savings for owners.

With features like LED lighting, digital instrument cluster, and Combined Braking System (CBS) available across variants, the Dio 125 offers a comprehensive package that justifies its pricing. Honda provides a 10-year warranty package, which includes a 3-year standard warranty and a 7-year optional extended warranty, adding to the overall value.