Introduction
The R15, the FZ, and now this, the Aerox 155; Yamaha India does know how to set the cat among pigeons if it sets its mind to it. The R15 and the FZ need no introduction. These are motorcycles that kick-started segments that no one was brave enough to venture into; it was the combination of price, performance, technology, and styling that no one believed would work.
These were motorcycles that were single-mindedly targeted at enthusiasts. But here’s the serendipitous outcome - not just serious enthusiasts, but motorcyclists at large bought these bikes, even for just commuting. And today these are the bikes other OEMs emulate in a hope to repeat this success.
The Audacious Scooter
The Aerox 155 is cut from the same cloth. It is audacious for a scooter in the Indian context. Much like the R15, it has the tech and the performance scooters in India haven’t even started dreaming about, forget implementing it. It is also a huge departure from the norm when it comes to ‘scooter’ things. It has no floorboard to speak of; its ride quality screams sporty instead of comfort, and it is focused more on delivering exhilaration than fuel efficiency.
And, going by the initial response of the Aerox, it is clearly off to a flyer. It’s possible that this is hitherto being driven by enthusiasts. However, to keep this momentum up, the Aerox will need to do more than just deliver thrills.
But does it?
Can one live with it? Can one commute on it? Can one go grocery shopping, drop the kids to school, and ride it every day instead of it being a once-a-week affair? That’s exactly what we intend finding out over the next six months.
Say hello then to our new long termer.
Blue Square Catch
The Aerox you see here costs Rs 1.6 lakh on the road. The colour you see here is the most sought-after currently. And the waiting period of the Aerox runs into almost a month at the time of writing this. There is another issue. Not every Yamaha dealer, in every city, can sell the Aerox. Yamaha India is clear that it wants Aerox customers to have a special experience; an experience it believes only its Blue Square dealerships can currently deliver on.
So, if you want to buy one, but it’s not available in your city, you’d need to book and take delivery of the scooter from the closest city with a Blue Square dealership. You can head to Yamaha India’s website and locate one in your state and in a city closest to you under the dealer finder tab. The good news though is, any Yamaha authorised service centre across the country can service the scooter; Blue Square or not. That’s some relief.
What’s Next?
Over the next six months we will break our reports down to Aerox’s performance in the city and on the highway; its service cost and experience; its life as a ‘regular’ scooter; and we will also review the official accessories that are available for the Aerox. So, do come back.
Product Details
Make: Yamaha
Model: Aerox 155
Kilometres This Month: 320km
Fuel Efficiency: 42.6kmpl
Price: Rs 1.6 lakh, OTR, Mumbai (when tested)
Gallery
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Yamaha Aerox 155 Right Side View
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