TVS Jupiter 125 Review: First Ride

In its second innings, the Jupiter has become an all-new 125cc offering. But when TVS already has the stellar Ntorq 125 on sale, why should you even consider it?

Hot on the heels of the Raider 125’s launch, TVS has completed its two-prong attack by bringing in its second 125cc offering in quick succession – the all-new Jupiter. Now, there’s no denying that TVS is currently ruling the roost with the Ntorq 125, which is arguably one of its best-selling scooters. So, the following question comes to mind: With the new Jupiter 125, what sort of a customer base is TVS really targeting? Let’s find out…

The Jupiter 125 marks TVS’ (rather late) entry into the commuter scooter space. Now, if I list out some of its key rivals, like the Honda Activa, Suzuki Access and the Yamaha Fascino, you’ll soon realise exactly what the Jupiter 125 is supposed to do – deliver a very good package of comfort, performance, features and fuel-efficiency.

After testing the new Jupiter around TVS’ test track in Hosur, well, I’m happy to report that it’s received an enviably good scorecard from me! So, what makes it so special?

TVS has thrown in so many new elements on the Jupiter 125 that, in essence, it’s an all-new product. Powering it is an all-new 124.8cc single-cylinder air-cooled two-valve engine that works in tandem with auto start/stop and fuel-injection technology. The new motor's paired to a CVT gearbox and the power and torque figures stand at 8bhp and 10.5Nm, respectively.

Plus, the scooter is also built on a new chassis and comes equipped with a new three-step adjustable gas-charged inverted monoshock. And if this wasn’t enough, TVS has also shifted the fuel tank just below the floorboard now. This has reaped some important benefits. One, the fuel-filler cap has now moved to the inner apron, adjacent to the ignition slot, which makes refuelling more convenient. Two, with this shift, the Jupiter 125 offers a much better centre of gravity that makes its handling noticeably better. Three, the under-seat storage now stands at 32-litres and it can house two full-face helmets.

Keep all of this in mind while riding the scooter and what you notice is that the Jupiter 125 is an immensely capable scooter that offers a really good combination of riding comfort and ample performance. Of course, the new engine’s two-valve configuration limits the top-end performance quite a bit, but till about 70km/h, the improved torque curve ensures that the performance remains sprightly. It’s only beyond that speed that the scooter runs out of juice. And in everyday city riding, you don’t need any more speed!

However, be it at low speeds or when maxed out, the Jupiter sticks to the road with great confidence and the suspension, coupled with the new seat that’s claimed to be the biggest in the segment, offers exceptional levels of comfort. A special shoutout also goes to the brakes – even during an emergency braking manoeuvre at 80km/h, the scooter stopped dead-straight, which is really impressive. 

So, in my opinion, the Jupiter 125 is the ideal riding partner for the quintessential Indian family man who wants to potter around town on an attractive scooter that rides very well and sets a new benchmark with its ground-breaking ergonomics and practicality!

Read more:

TVS Jupiter 125 launched at Rs 73,400 

2021 Yamaha Fascino 125 Hybrid launched