Yamaha Aerox 155 vs Aprilia SR160 Race vs TVS NTorq Race XP - Comparison Review
Modified On Feb 6, 2022 09:34 PM By Sudipto Chaudhuryfor Yamaha Aerox 155
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Which of these performance scooters is the perfect choice for an enthusiast rider? Let’s find out…
Automatic scooters were initially conceived as a tool for the daily commute, but the expansion in the audience – especially in the younger age bracket – and subsequent market competition forced the manufacturers to step up their game. Besides, the recent price hikes have made premium and performance offerings in the scooter space a viable option for more and more people.
So if you’re in the market for a performance scooter, there are chiefly three options to choose from: TVS’ light and zippy NTorq 125 Race XP, Aprilia’s recently updated SR160 Race, and Yamaha’s brutish Aerox 155. Here we put them through the paces to ascertain the winner.
Performance
We start off with the three scooters’ intended purpose.
Ntorq 125 Race XP:
Despite packing the smallest, least powerful engine of the trio, the Ntorq has a trick up its sleeve in the form of two riding modes, Street and Race. The former somewhat dulls the throttle response in the interests of fuel efficiency, while the latter allows for rapid overtakes and spirited riding.
SR160 Race:
The SR finds itself sandwiched between the NTorq and Aerox. It has marginally better specs than the NTorq and isn’t significantly heavier, and yet seems quite closely matched at city speeds (though only when the NTorq is in Race mode). In fact, the real differences emerge only close to both scooters’ top end.
Aerox 155:
Meanwhile, the performance showcased by the Aerox’ liquid-cooled 155cc engine is at another level entirely. So not only is it undoubtedly faster within city limits but its Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology ensures that at speeds post 80kmph, where most scooters start running out of breath, the Aerox keeps chugging along smoothly. Additionally, it is the only scooter in India that can comfortably cross 100kmph, and then some..
Another advantage of the VVA system is that despite making more power than the SR160, it sips less petrol, which means that even with its significantly smaller fuel tank, its fuel range won’t be much lower than the SR.
Handling
We now delve into the next aspect in the excitement stakes.
Aerox 155:
Firstly, the Aerox’ low-mounted fuel tank keeps the centre of gravity comfortably low. Next, the floorboard’s central ridge is perfect for locking your boots in place which, along with the stepped seat, is exactly what serious riders need when tackling longer, flowing corners. And finally, the wide tyres and hefty kerb weight help it hold the line when leaned over in a corner, translating to handling hitherto unseen on any Indian scooter.
NTorq 125 Race XP:
The NTorq’s 12-inch wheels may be the smallest here, but it’s also the lightest scooter here as well. Therefore it’s a neutral and predictable handler, exactly what’s needed both when filtering through traffic during the daily commute, as well as for spirited riding on the weekends.
SR 160 Race:
The SR’s 14-inch wheels ensure it isn't lacking in the handling department. And yet, it feels neither as stable (when leaned over) as the Aerox, nor as light (when in traffic) as the NTorq. And though it performs adequately in a variety of riding scenarios, it seems to lose its bearing somewhat when facing mid-corner bumps, which may end up startling inexperienced riders.
Features
A hefty price tag means more bells and whistles, doesn’t it?
SR 160:
Bringing up the rear is the SR160, with the least number of standard features. Firstly, adding a USB charging port on the front apron, as well as the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity is a Rs 2000 option, despite which there is no provision for navigation.
Moreover, helpful additions such as a multipurpose key slot, and an external fuel filler lid are absent as well. Now, while the underseat storage does get useful kit such as a USB port and LED light, its storage capacity isn’t specified, and the awkward shape is good enough for only a medium-sized bag, at most.
Aerox 155:
The Yamaha is only marginally better equipped than the Aprilia. So though Bluetooth connectivity is standard, where along with call and message alerts you also get data like average fuel consumption, last parked location, malfunction alert and service reminder via the Yamaha Y-Connect app, navigation isn’t on offer here as well.
Moving now to the underseat storage; at 24.5 litres, it’s the largest here, and can easily fit a full-face helmet. But it doesn’t feature a USB port. In fact, the only USB port here is located within a cubby on the front apron, which isn’t large enough to fit most modern smartphones.
A helpful feature, though, is that both the underseat storage as well as fuel filler lid can be accessed via buttons beside the key slot, negating the need for random twisting and twirling on the keys. Besides, it is the only one here with stop-start tech, which works flawlessly and, along with the VVA tech, may help stretch your fuel bills just a smidgen further.
NTorq 125 Race XP:
And finally onto the scooter with the widest spread of features. You may already be familiar with the two riding modes. Additionally, the TVS Rideguide app allows for call and message alerts along with text-based turn-by-turn navigation. Also on offer are post-ride stats, such as distance covered, total ride time, engine rpm, and average speed.
Moreover, some functions within the app, such as navigation, or changing the riding modes, can also be toggled using voice commands. And finally, the app also includes instructional videos on how to use the varied functions.
But one spot where the NTorq lags behind is the absence of a multifunction key slot, which means despite the external fuel filler lid, you’ll still need to get off when at the fuel pump.
Ergonomics and comfort
Being your daily runabout, comfort would rank high won’t it?
NTorq 125 Race XP:
The NTorq’s seat height seems the most approachable, and the narrow seat will allow most riders to plant both feet firmly on the ground. Besides, the seat material is the right balance of soft and firm, and the small ridge separating the rider’s space from the pillion’s is far enough back so the knees of even the tallest riders don’t foul with the handlebars.
SR 160 Race:
The SR160’s seat is a bit higher than the NTorq, and the awkward shape of the seat fore digs into the back of the thigh. Most would simply scooch back to counteract this, but that isn’t an option for shorter, stockier riders. Another facet which seems disconcerting is the sheer stretch to work the switchgear, which means you may hit the indicator button when aiming for the horn.
Aerox 155:
The Aerox 155’s underbone design, sharply stepped seat, and sloping front apron single it out as the most focused of the trio. However, it isn’t all novelty. The central spine may bruise the shins of those who absentmindedly disembark in a traditional ‘scooter’ fashion instead of swinging their leg over the rear seat, motorcycle style. And the stepped seat allows zero scope for movement for the rider, and taller riders will surely whack their knees on the inner part of the front apron when going over bumps.
Ride quality
You’re going to be spending lots of time in the saddle. Might as well be comfortable, right?
NTorq 125 Race XP:
As mentioned, the comfortable seat on the NTorq does, in a way, counteract the firmness of its suspension setup, softening the blow over most smaller bumps and undulations. That said, the impact from the larger bumps does filter through, helped in no small part by the smaller wheels.
SR 160 Race:
The seat as well as suspension setup on the SR160 is firmer than on the NTorq, leaving the rider vulnerable to bumps both big and small. Additionally, the suspension behaviour isn’t predictable either, which translates to heightened fatigue over longer rides and can also take a toll on your back.
Aerox 155:
Though the Aerox’ seat is adequately cushioned, its suspension setup isn’t just firm, it’s borderline harsh, which means every single bump or undulation will register on the rider’s posterior. Now, those with some technical knowhow could air down the tyres by a PSI or two to smoothen over the harsher bumps, but even that won’t help with the previously mentioned dilemma for taller riders’ knees!
Verdict
Thus far, the NTorq has proved its worth in almost every category. Its engine, despite the relatively smaller capacity, comes in quite close to the larger SR160. Besides, it boasts commendable fuel efficiency figures, packs a long list of features, and is priced close to Rs 40,000 less than the other two. So at a glance, the TVS NTorq 125 Race XP comes across as the best combination of practicality, price and features.
And on the flip side, despite coming from the brand that brought in the very segment of performance scooters, the SR160 seems ill at ease. Its limited performance advantage over the NTorq, sheer lack of features, and unsatisfactory ride and handling characteristics are topped off by a hard-to-justify price tag. So though it garners eyeballs (and sales) courtesy its international appeal and to an extent even its racing heritage, its USP as a performance machine isn’t its strong suit.
So keeping in mind the ‘performance’ aspect in today’s comparison over everything else, and despite the apparent benefits of the NTorq Race XP, the Aerox 155 – the most powerful scooter in India – comes across as the undisputed king of single-minded performance. Yes, it scores very low in the practicality stakes, but its R15 V4-based liquid-cooled engine runs rings around the competition, and though it costs a pretty penny, it isn’t priced obscenely higher than the competition.