Yamaha Aerox 155 Come In Legend Look, Fight With Honda Activa

Introduction

The scooter segment in India and many other countries has evolved significantly, with manufacturers offering performance-oriented, stylish, and feature-packed models. Among the most popular choices are the Yamaha Aerox 155 and the Honda Activa. While both cater to different audiences, their presence in the market has sparked a debate: Can the Yamaha Aerox 155, with its legendary sporty design and high-performance engine, compete with the best-selling, practical, and reliable Honda Activa?

This article explores the design, performance, features, pricing, and overall usability of both scooters to determine whether the Aerox 155 truly rivals the Activa or serves a different purpose altogether.

1. Design & Styling: Sporty vs. Classic

Yamaha Aerox 155: Aggressive Sportbike DNA

The Yamaha Aerox 155 is an eye-catching sporty scooter with aggressive lines, an aerodynamic body, and a muscular stance. Inspired by Yamaha’s R-series motorcycles, the Aerox 155 looks more like a maxi-scooter than a conventional scooter.

Sharp dual LED headlights and a stylish LED taillight
Integrated front fairing giving it a motorcycle-like appeal
14-inch alloy wheels for enhanced road presence and handling
Split footboard with a step-through design for a more engaging riding posture
Large digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity

Honda Activa: Timeless Simplicity

The Honda Activa, on the other hand, follows a more classic and subtle design approach that prioritizes functionality and mass appeal. It has remained one of the best-selling scooters in India due to its familiar styling and ease of use.

Rounded and sleek body panels
Simple halogen headlight (LED in premium variants)
Comfortable single-piece seat
12-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels for easy maneuverability
Analog-digital meter cluster (on some variants)

Verdict: If you want a sporty and aggressive scooter, the Aerox 155 is the clear winner. If you prefer a simple and practical design, the Activa is a better choice.

2. Engine & Performance: Power vs. Practicality

Yamaha Aerox 155: A Performance-Oriented Beast

The Aerox 155 is powered by a 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). This is the same engine found in the Yamaha R15, albeit tuned for a scooter.

Power Output: 15 PS @ 8,000 RPM
Torque: 13.9 Nm @ 6,500 RPM
Top Speed: ~120 km/h
Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Fuel Injection (FI) for efficiency and performance
Sporty acceleration and excellent highway performance

Honda Activa: Reliable and Efficient

The Activa is designed for city commuting and fuel efficiency rather than performance. It comes with a 109.51cc or 125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine.

Power Output: 7.79 PS @ 8,000 RPM (Activa 6G), 8.29 PS (Activa 125)
Torque: 8.84 Nm @ 5,500 RPM (Activa 6G), 10.3 Nm (Activa 125)
Top Speed: ~85 km/h
Transmission: CVT
Smooth and refined engine with excellent mileage (~50-55 kmpl)

Verdict: If you want a power-packed ride with motorcycle-like performance, the Aerox 155 is unbeatable. But if you prefer a fuel-efficient, city-friendly scooter, the Activa is more practical.

3. Features & Technology

Yamaha Aerox 155: Tech-Loaded

Bluetooth-enabled digital instrument cluster
Side stand engine cut-off
Smart key system
LED lighting setup
Dual-channel ABS (in some variants)
Storage space (24.5L under-seat compartment)
Larger 14-inch wheels for better stability

Honda Activa: Functional & Reliable

Silent start technology
External fuel-filler cap
Side-stand engine cut-off
ESP (Enhanced Smart Power) technology for fuel efficiency
Small under-seat storage (~18L)

Verdict: The Aerox 155 is far ahead in features and technology, making it ideal for tech-savvy riders. The Activa focuses on simplicity and reliability.

4. Comfort & Ride Quality

Yamaha Aerox 155: Sporty & Engaging

Firm suspension setup for better handling
Wider tires for enhanced grip
Not ideal for short riders due to high seat height (790mm)

Honda Activa: Comfort-Oriented

Soft suspension for a plush ride
Lower seat height (765mm) for easy accessibility
Lighter weight (~106 kg vs. Aerox’s 126 kg)

Verdict: For comfort and city-friendly riding, the Activa is better. For a sportier and more engaging ride, the Aerox excels.

5. Pricing & Value for Money

Yamaha Aerox 155: ₹1.47 lakh (ex-showroom)
Honda Activa 6G: ₹76,234 – ₹82,734 (ex-showroom)
Honda Activa 125: ₹79,806 – ₹88,979 (ex-showroom)

Verdict: The Activa is far more affordable, making it a better choice for budget-conscious buyers. The Aerox is a premium offering for those who prioritize performance over price.

6. Which One Should You Buy?

Criteria	Yamaha Aerox 155	Honda Activa
Design	Sporty & aggressive	Classic & simple
Performance	Powerful 155cc engine	Efficient 110-125cc engine
Technology	Feature-loaded	Basic but reliable
Comfort	Firm ride, high seat	Soft ride, lower seat
Price	Expensive	Budget-friendly
Best For	Performance lovers	Daily commuters

Final Verdict:

Buy the Yamaha Aerox 155 if you want a powerful, stylish, and feature-packed scooter that feels like a sportbike on wheels.
Buy the Honda Activa if you need a reliable, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly scooter for daily commuting.

Conclusion

While the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Honda Activa are both excellent scooters, they cater to completely different audiences. The Aerox 155 is a performance scooter with a legendary, aggressive look, while the Activa is a practical, everyday scooter loved for its reliability. Instead of competing directly, they serve distinct markets—one for thrill-seekers and another for practical riders.