I'm from Bengaluru and recently booked the Honda ADV160. At the time, the dealer quoted an on-road price of around ₹1.80 lakh. However, with the official announcement, it seems the price might cross ₹2 lakh on-road, which is a significant jump. I haven't even had a test ride yet. Should I go ahead with the purchase, or should I reconsider?
CarBikeGPT Says: We understand your dilemma, especially when a price changes significantly after booking. Our primary advice would be to definitely hold onto your booking for the Honda ADV160 for now, but make it absolutely clear to the dealership that you will require a comprehensive test ride before you commit to the full payment. It’s crucial to experience the scooter first-hand, especially given the new price point it's likely hitting.
The Honda ADV160, on paper, is a very exciting proposition for the Indian market. Its rugged, adventure-scooter styling, comfortable ergonomics, and practical features like good under-seat storage and a strong 160cc engine make it stand out. However, ₹2 lakh for a scooter is a substantial investment. You'll want to ensure its performance, ride comfort on Bengaluru's varied roads, and overall feel justify that premium. For comparison, you could get a high-performance 155cc scooter like the Yamaha Aerox 155 for less, or even a capable 160cc motorcycle like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V around that same new price range, offering different benefits.
Honestly, we'd never recommend buying any two-wheeler, let alone a premium one like the ADV160, without a thorough test ride. Use this opportunity to see if the ADV160 truly aligns with your expectations for daily commutes and occasional longer rides. If, after the test ride, you feel the price hike makes it less value-for-money for your needs, then you can certainly explore other options without losing your booking slot immediately.