2016 TVS Victor test ride review: Good looks, better ride

The entry-level segment is an area which does not give manufacturers in India much chance to experiment. The basics factors for a fine product, such as a smooth and fuel efficient engine, affordable price and best value-for-money running cost, are, of course, essential to the development of a new product. However, the key to bringing out a successful model lies in the manufacturer's ability to bring more to the motorcycle. TVS is the latest manufacturer to throw the hat in the ring.

The new motorcycle from TVS, christened Victor, takes it name from one of the most successful motorcycles of the company, which was launched in 2001 and continued selling until 2007, when the arrival of new motorcycles slowed down its sales. The company is expecting to emulate the success of the previous version with the latest 2016 Victor.

We took the 2016 TVS Victor for a spin. And here is what we think of the machine.

Design and styling

At first glance if you find that the Victor is identical to the TVS Star City+, that's quite normal. The Victor does resemble the Star City a lot and hence lacks the uniqueness in design. However, that can be neglected since all the motorcycles in this segment come with the motto of practicality over looks. Having said that, the new Victor features a sharp look against the previous version. The design is contemporary with character lines running across the sides of the motorcycle. The new headlamp is more pronouncing while the tail lamp has a new and distinctive design. TVS has also added graphics on the fuel tank and flank panels without cluttering the overall looks.

The instrument console is a semi-digital unit with a large tachometer occupying a major area. The speedometer, trip metre, odometer and fuel gauge get digital display. The cluster also features eco and power mode indicators. The addition of hazard lights, which are activated via switch on the right hand side, is not something expected in the commuter segment. The motorcycle also features matte black coloured alloy wheels and short and stubby exhaust muffler. Switch gear quality and overall finish is the best in the segment. The fit and finish and attention to details are impressive in the Victor.

Engine and Transmission

The Victor comes with a 109.7cc Ecothrust engine producing 9.6bhp at 8000rpm and 9.4 Nm of torque at 6000rpm mated to four-speed transmission. Ecothrust engine means TVS engineers have fine-tuned the motor for improved power and refinement. Both are evident with the first twist on the throttle. The engine output is refined and it responds to the throttle inputs without delay. The transmission adjusts the power from engine precisely and gear shifts are stress-free.

Ride, Handling and Performance

Initial pick-up and in-gear acceleration of the Victor is spot on. At 50 to 70kmph, the speed at which most in the target group will ride the bike, there are no vibrations or noise. Once the speed crosses 80kmph, a negligible amount of vibration can be felt from the handle bar and foot pegs.

Being a commuter motorcycle, the Victor comes with a more relaxing riding position. The sitting position is more upright and reach to handle bar is exact. The Victor comes with conventional fork up front with two Series hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. The setup offers a comfortable ride. The motorcycle also handles very well and is quick to turn into corners. TVS Remora tyres offer impressive grip which is coupled with 240mm petal disc up front and a 110mm drum at the rear.

Overall performance is quick as expected from a 110cc motorcycle, and sometimes it matches up to the performance of some of the 125cc bikes.

Fuel efficiency and Price

The fate of a motorcycle in this segment clearly depends on how far it can go with a litre of petrol and how pocket-friendly is the pricing. The Victor boasts of a claimed fuel efficiency of 76kmpl. The real world conditions are much different, yet the motorcycle will return a mileage in the range of 63 to 68kmpl. As for pricing, the Victor costs Rs. 62,598 on-road for the disc brake equipped model and Rs. 60,301 for the drum brake model in Bengaluru.

Verdict

The new Victor is a motorcycle that fits perfectly into the commuter bike segment. It comes with a refined engine and satisfactory performance. The seating position is comfortable and maneuverability is excellent. TVS has come up with a fine product by putting together all the ingredients that a customer of a commuter motorcycle looks for. TVS Victor is without doubt a well-rounded product with very few drawbacks.