Suzuki Access 125: India’s sub-200cc scooter segment is hotly contested, and each of the major two-wheeler makers have given their best in terms of design, comfort, mileage and features.
In the midst of all those options, the Suzuki Access 125 has been slowly building its fan base. It may not be the flashiest or most high-tech scooter you can buy, but what it does offer is reliability, comfort and long-term dependability.
The Access 125, which first went for sale over a decade ago, has been upgraded and enriched time and again. The new iteration, along with the success of the earlier versions, is proving that Suzuki wants to get in on the daily rider scene – put simply, if you want a sensible, nippy scooter that you can rely on for the daily grind, then this is the one.
Suzuki Access 125 Design and Build Quality
Design wise, the Suzuki Access 125 is simple and elegant. It doesn’t try too hard with loud styling or sharp lines, opting for a mature appearance.
While the front apron gets a chrome-lined headlamp, neatly integrated turn indicators and few lines that make up for a classic urban appeal.
Suzuki also offers the scooter in standard and Special Edition options. The latter gets chrome mirrors, dual-tone seat covers, and marginally more fashionable colour options.
The quality of build overall feels good, with nicely finished panels and good fitment all around, demonstrating the attention to detail we expect from the brand.
Engine and Performance
The meat underneath the bodywork is a slick 124cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motor pumping about 8.7PS and 10Nm of torque. These figures might not look impressive on paper, but it’s the engine’s buttery smoothness and near silent operation that wow the most.
It’s also beginner friendly with a linear power delivery. Acceleration is brisk enough in city traffic, and the engine never has to break a sweat even at slightly higher speeds.
The CVT works well and is well-tuned, giving a very linear throttle response for overtaking and city commuting.
The Access is really a star in the fuel efficiency department. You can push it between 48 to 55km/l (of course it depends on the traffic and load) if you are careful with your ride. That’s very respectable for a scooter in this class, though, and adds to its attractiveness as a reliable round-town runabout.
Ride and Handling
The Suzuki Access 125 is one of the most comfortable scooters in the category. The telescopic front forks and swingarm-mounted rear shock absorber allow this scooter to take bad roads and speed breakers in its stride.
The suspension is geared more toward comfort making it ideal for everyday commuting.
A comfortable position will be had by both tall and short riders. The seat is plenty roomy and well-cushioned, and there’s plenty of room on the floorboard for feet and groceries.
There is ample room even on the pillion, which also comes with a solid grab rail for more safety.
Negotiating through narrow city streets or in bumper to bumper traffic is also convenience, courtesy of a light kerb weight of about 103 kg. It’s nimble but not sketchy.
Braking duties are performed by drum-drum or Front-disc with CBS, adding to its safety.
Features and Practicality
The Access 125 doesn’t have the latest smart connectivity features but does cover the basics quite well. You receive a mixed XY analogue-digital instrument cluster, an external fuel filler cap for ease of use, side-stand engine cut-off, and USB charging socket.
There’s also an under-seat storage of about 21.8 litres — not capacious, but enough for a half-face helmet or small backpack. There’s also a front hook and utility pocket for added utility during shopping missions.
Pros:
Smooth and efficient engine.
Cushy ride, perfect in the city
Clean, stylish design that stands the test of time
Well built and dependable mechanically
Rider-rideable for any skill level
Cons:
Doesn’t have latest features, such as Bluetooth or navigation.
Analog-styled instrument cluster doesn’t exactly scream digital age
No adjustable rear suspension
Not as sporty as some competitors
Design Storage space under the seat is limited
Suzuki Access 125 Verdict
Narration This might not be the flashiest scooter on the road, but it doesn’t pretend to be. It doesn’t compete on distance, speed or power; rather, it panders to the priorities of most bicyclists: comfort, the path of least resistance, low maintenance and a smooth ride.
If you wish for something practical, something which doesn’t promise the moon but won’t let you down either – the Access 125 is a no nonsense option.
Whether you’re teleworking, commuting to work, or running errands, significantly reduce your carbon footprint; and do it with a bit of style!