Quick Analysis
ATHER 450 Apex
22.0 pts
Unweighted: 31 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Honda Dio 125 Smart
27.0 pts
Unweighted: 19 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | — | Air Cooled |
| Displacement | — | 123.92 CC |
| Engine Type | — | 4 Stroke, SI Engine, Fuel Injection |
| Power | 7.0 kW | 10.5 Nm @5000 rpm |
| Torque | 26 Nm | 6.11 kW @6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | — | 5.3 L |
| Mileage | — | 48 Kmpl |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 100 | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 111.6 | 105 |
| Seat Height | 780 | 708 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Combined braking system & regenerative braking | No |
| Front Brake | Hydraulically actuated triple-piston calliper disc, 200mm | 190 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks | Telescopic |
| Rear Brake | Hydraulically actuated single-piston calliper disc, 190mm | 130 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Symmetrically mounted progressive monoshock | 3-Step Adjustable Spring |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/90 - 12 | 90/90-12 |
| Rear Tyre | 100/80 - 12 | 90/100-10 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| 0–40 km/h (s) | 2.9 | — |
| Anti-Theft / IoT Tracking | Yes | — |
| App Connectivity | Yes | — |
| Battery | 3.7 kWh Lithium-ion | 12 V, 5.0 Ah |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | 3.7 | — |
| Battery Chemistry | Li-ion | — |
| Battery Warranty (Years) | 5 | — |
| Bike Image 1 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gray-emblem.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/gray-stripe.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Igneous-black.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Imperial-red.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/yellow.avif |
| Built-in GPS Navigation | Yes | — |
| Charger Output Power (kW) | 0.7 | — |
| Charging Port Type | Proprietary | — |
| Charging Time (Fast) | 1–1.5h | — |
| Charging Time (Standard) | 5.45 | — |
| Cluster | — | TFT |
| Color Options | Indium Blue | #2A4B8D, #F04E23 | Pearl Igneous Black | #121214 Imperial Red | #A51E28 Pearl Sports Yellow | #D9A400 Mat Marvel Blue Metallic | #2F4F7A Pearl Deep Ground Gray (Stripe) | #5B5E63 Pearl Deep Ground Gray (Emblem) | #60646A |
| Connectivity Features | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 4G, navigation, call/music control | — |
| Cons | Relatively expensive — might feel like overkill if you only need basic commuting. Suspension and ride comfort may feel a bit firm on rough or potholed roads. Storage and seating/space may feel limited if you need more room or are a taller rider. Real-world range drops noticeably with aggressive riding or heavy load — and reliability depends on having charging access. The premium features and extra cost may not feel “worth it” for riders who don’t use them often. | Performance Is Primarily City-Focused – While capable of highway use, the engine is tuned more for urban commuting than sustained high-speed riding. Underseat Storage Is Not the Largest in the Segment – Some competitors offer slightly more storage capacity for larger helmets and luggage. Ride Quality Can Feel Firm on Poor Roads – Sharp potholes and broken surfaces are transmitted more noticeably than on some scooters with softer suspension tuning. Rear Drum Brake on Lower Variants – Depending on the variant, buyers may not get a rear disc brake. Pillion Space Is Average – The rear seat is adequate for daily use but is not among the roomiest in the 125cc scooter category. Feature List Isn't the Most Extensive – While the Smart key system is useful, some rivals offer additional connected features, navigation integration, or larger displays. Smaller Wheels Than Some Rivals – The wheel setup prioritizes agility but may feel less composed on rough roads compared with scooters using larger wheels. |
| Detailed Overview | The Ather 450 Apex is an electric scooter designed with a focus on performance and advanced features for urban use in India. It is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor paired with a 3.7 kWh battery pack. The motor produces around 7 kW of peak power and about 26 Nm of torque, which allows the scooter to accelerate quickly, especially at lower speeds. It can reach a top speed of around 100 km/h, and the 0–40 km/h acceleration is approximately 2.9 seconds. The scooter offers multiple riding modes such as SmartEco, Eco, Ride, Sport, and Warp+, which adjust how power is delivered depending on riding conditions and preferences. The battery is fixed and uses lithium-ion chemistry, and it is charged using a portable home charger or through Ather’s fast-charging network. A full charge using a standard charger takes around 5 hours and 45 minutes, while fast charging can reduce the time significantly for partial charging. The claimed range is around 157 km under IDC conditions, although real-world range typically varies between 110 and 120 km depending on speed, riding mode, and traffic conditions. In terms of design, the Ather 450 Apex includes a unique look with translucent side panels that partially reveal the internal structure. The scooter maintains a compact and sporty form factor, which helps in city riding and maneuverability. The overall weight is balanced to keep it manageable in daily conditions. The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock, which are tuned to provide stability, although bumps and uneven roads can still be felt. The braking system includes disc brakes at both ends with a combined braking system to improve control during sudden stops. The scooter is equipped with a touchscreen TFT display that shows speed, battery status, navigation, and ride data. It supports smartphone connectivity through Bluetooth and internet features like navigation, call alerts, and ride statistics. Over-the-air updates are also available, allowing the system software to be updated without visiting a service center. Additional features include reverse mode, side-stand sensor, and different levels of regenerative braking. The seating position is slightly forward but still comfortable for daily use, and the overall ergonomics are suited for urban commuting. Storage space is limited compared to larger scooters, which may affect practicality for carrying bigger items. The Ather 450 Apex is built to offer a combination of performance, technology, and everyday usability, with its overall experience depending on factors like charging access, road conditions, and traffic in India. | The Honda Dio 125 Smart is positioned within the 125cc scooter segment, a category that balances everyday practicality with enough performance for urban and suburban commuting. While the Dio name has traditionally been associated with younger riders and sportier styling, the 125cc version expands on that formula by introducing a larger engine, additional technology, and convenience-oriented features. The Smart variant sits at the top of the Dio 125 range and incorporates Honda’s keyless operation system alongside the standard mechanical package. Power comes from a 123.92cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine equipped with fuel injection. The engine is designed primarily for city use, where scooters spend most of their time navigating traffic, frequent stops, and short-distance journeys. Fuel injection helps maintain consistent performance under varying conditions, while Honda’s enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology integrates several efficiency-focused measures within the engine design. The powertrain is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), eliminating the need for manual gear changes and contributing to the scooter’s ease of operation. One of the notable features of the engine package is the Idling Stop System. When the scooter remains stationary for a short period, the system automatically switches off the engine to reduce fuel consumption. Twisting the throttle restarts the engine almost immediately. This feature is intended primarily for urban riding environments where frequent traffic signals and congestion can lead to extended periods of idling. The chassis uses an underbone frame structure, which is common among modern scooters because it allows easy mounting and dismounting while also providing space for storage and fuel-system packaging. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. The setup is configured around everyday commuting requirements rather than performance-oriented riding. Wheel sizes and tyre dimensions are selected to maintain manoeuvrability in traffic while providing sufficient stability for typical road conditions. Visually, the Dio 125 Smart follows a more aggressive design language than many family-oriented scooters. Sharp body panels, angular styling elements, and a prominent front apron give the scooter a sportier appearance. The LED headlamp and position lamps form part of the design rather than appearing as separate additions, while the bodywork maintains a compact overall footprint. Despite the sporty styling, the scooter retains practical elements such as a flat floorboard area and integrated storage spaces. The Smart variant’s defining feature is Honda’s Smart Key system. Instead of relying solely on a conventional key, the scooter can be operated through a wireless smart key that enables functions such as ignition control, seat opening, fuel-lid access, and vehicle location assistance. These features are integrated into the scooter’s daily operation and are intended to improve convenience rather than alter performance. A fully digital instrument cluster provides riding information including speed, fuel level, trip data, mileage indicators, and service reminders. The display layout remains relatively straightforward and prioritizes commonly used information. Additional practical features include an external fuel-filler cap, allowing refuelling without opening the seat, and under-seat storage suitable for carrying daily essentials. The scooter has a fuel tank capacity of 5.3 litres and a kerb weight of approximately 105 kg. These figures place it among the lighter scooters in the 125cc category, contributing to its agility during low-speed manoeuvres. Combined with the fuel-injected engine, automatic transmission, Smart Key system, and commuter-focused chassis, the Dio 125 Smart is configured around the requirements of everyday urban mobility while retaining the sporty styling that has long been associated with the Dio name. |
| Drive Modes | SmartEco, Eco, Ride, Sport, Warp+ | — |
| Expert Review | The Ather 450 Apex is positioned as a performance-focused electric scooter in India, aimed at riders who want quicker acceleration and higher top speed than regular EVs. Its motor delivers strong initial pickup, which is noticeable in city traffic as well as on open roads. The ride quality is slightly firm, so rough roads and potholes can be felt more clearly. It comes with a detailed electronics and connectivity package, which may take some time for new users to fully understand. Range and charging still depend on usage patterns and access to charging infrastructure. It is more relevant for riders who prioritize performance and features over simple commuting needs., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team | The Dio 125 Smart follows a different approach from many scooters in the 125cc segment. Rather than focusing on maximum storage space, a broad seat, or a family-oriented design, it places greater emphasis on compact dimensions and sporty styling. The engine is tuned for everyday urban use, delivering smooth acceleration and predictable throttle response rather than outright performance. In traffic, the scooter feels light and easy to manoeuvre, which is helped by its relatively low weight and responsive steering. The riding position is upright and familiar, making it easy to adapt to for riders moving up from smaller scooters. The Smart variant's keyless system adds convenience to daily use, reducing the need to repeatedly access a physical key. On the road, the suspension and wheel setup prioritize agility, which helps the scooter feel nimble in city environments, though rough surfaces can be felt more clearly than on some comfort-focused alternatives. The overall package reflects a scooter developed primarily around urban mobility, with its specifications and design choices largely aimed at everyday commuting rather than long-distance travel or utility-focused use., 4.2, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the top speed of the Ather 450 Apex? A: The top speed is around 100 km/h. Q: How fast does the Ather 450 Apex accelerate from 0–40 km/h? A: It accelerates from 0–40 km/h in about 2.9 seconds. Q: What is the battery capacity of the Ather 450 Apex? A: It comes with a 3.7 kWh lithium-ion battery. Q: What is the real-world range of the Ather 450 Apex? A: You can typically expect around 110–130 km in mixed riding, and about 75–95 km in hard riding. Q: What is the certified range of the Ather 450 Apex? A: The official IDC-certified range is up to 157 km per charge. Q: How long does it take to charge the Ather 450 Apex? A: A full charge through the home charger takes roughly 5.75 hours. Q: What kind of motor does the Ather 450 Apex use? A: It uses a 7.0 kW PMSM motor that produces up to 26 Nm of torque. Q: Does the Ather 450 Apex have fast charging? A: It supports Ather fast charging, letting you top up quickly on compatible chargers. Q: What ride modes are available on the Ather 450 Apex? A: Modes include SmartEco, Eco, Ride, Sport, and Warp+. Q: What type of brakes does the Ather 450 Apex have? A: It has disc brakes at both front and rear, with combined braking and regenerative braking. Q: What is Magic Twist on the Ather 450 Apex? A: Magic Twist is a regenerative braking system that slows the scooter when you release the throttle. Q: How much does the Ather 450 Apex weigh? A: It weighs around 111.6 kg. Q: What is the under-seat storage capacity? A: It offers 22 litres of under-seat storage. Q: Does the Ather 450 Apex have navigation? A: Yes, it has onboard navigation integrated into the touchscreen display. Q: What size is the instrument display? A: It has a 7-inch touchscreen dashboard. | Q: What is the Honda Dio 125 Smart? A: The Dio 125 Smart is the top-spec variant of the Honda Dio 125 and includes Honda's Smart Key system along with other convenience features. Q: What engine does the Dio 125 Smart use? A: It is powered by a 123.92cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine. Q: What is the power output of the Dio 125 Smart? A: The engine produces approximately 8.2 bhp and 10.4 Nm of torque. Q: What is Honda Smart Key? A: Honda Smart Key is a keyless operation system that allows functions such as ignition control, seat opening, fuel lid access, and vehicle location without inserting a physical key. Q: Does the Dio 125 Smart have a fully digital instrument cluster? A: Yes. It comes with a digital display showing speed, fuel level, trip information, mileage indicators, and service reminders. Q: Does the scooter have Bluetooth connectivity? A: No. Unlike some rivals such as the TVS Ntorq 125, the Dio 125 Smart does not offer Bluetooth smartphone connectivity. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 5.3 litres. Q: What is the kerb weight? A: The Honda Dio 125 Smart weighs approximately 105 kg. Q: Does it have an idle-stop system? A: Yes. Honda's Idling Stop System automatically switches off the engine during prolonged stops and restarts it when the throttle is twisted. Q: What type of brakes does it use? A: The scooter uses a front disc brake and a rear drum brake with Honda's Combined Braking System (CBS). Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is approximately 708 mm. Q: Is the Dio 125 Smart suitable for highway riding? A: It can be used on highways for shorter journeys, but it is primarily designed for urban commuting and city traffic conditions. Q: How is the Dio 125 Smart different from the Activa 125? A: Both share a similar engine platform, but the Dio 125 adopts a sportier design and lighter feel, while the Activa 125 focuses more on practicality and family-oriented usage. Q: Does it have external fuel filling? A: Yes. The scooter features an external fuel filler cap, eliminating the need to lift the seat during refuelling. Q: What mileage does the Dio 125 Smart offer? A: Real-world fuel efficiency generally falls in the range of 45–55 km/l, depending on riding conditions, traffic, and maintenance. |
| Fast Charging Supported | Yes | — |
| Final Drive Type | belt | — |
| Fuel System | — | Fuel Injection |
| Ingress Protection (IP Rating) | IP67 | — |
| Motor Power (Continuous, kW) | -0.1 | — |
| Motor Power (Peak, kW) | 7 | — |
| Motor Type | PMSM | — |
| OTA Updates | Yes | — |
| Price Variants | Standard | 189946 | STD | 87258 H-Smart | 92208 |
| Pros | Strong, responsive acceleration — fun and confident around city traffic or during quick overtakes. Good top speed for an electric scooter, making it usable not just for city commutes but occasional longer or faster rides. Smart, modern features and a connected dashboard — adds convenience, navigation, and a premium feel. Adequate real-world battery range for daily commuting and moderate longer rides. Low maintenance compared with petrol scooters — simpler upkeep, no fuel hassles. | Refined 125cc Engine – The air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers smooth and predictable performance, particularly in city traffic where scooters spend most of their time. Throttle response is progressive and easy to manage. Light and Easy to Handle – The Dio 125 remains one of the lighter scooters in its class, making it convenient for filtering through traffic, taking U-turns, and parking in tight spaces. Sporty Styling – Sharp body panels, split-style grab rails, aggressive graphics, and a distinctive LED headlamp help differentiate it from more conservative family-oriented scooters. Honda Smart Key System – The Smart variant includes keyless functions such as Smart Find, Smart Unlock, and anti-theft features, reducing the need to use a conventional key for everyday operation. Good Fuel Efficiency – The engine's idle-stop system and fuel-injection setup help keep fuel consumption relatively low during daily commuting. Digital Instrument Cluster – The display provides information such as mileage, trip data, fuel level, and service reminders in an easy-to-read format. Comfortable for Daily Urban Use – The scooter's dimensions, seat height, and riding position suit short and medium-distance commuting. Honda Service Network – Wide service coverage and easy availability of spare parts contribute to ownership convenience. |
| Range (Claimed, km) | 157 | — |
| Starter | Push Button Start | Self Start |
| Torque (Electric, Nm) | 26 | — |
| Transmission | — | Automatic |
| Vehicle Warranty (Years) | 3 | — |
