Aprilia SR 125 vs Suzuki Access 125: Comparison Review

The Introductions

The Aprilia SR 125 is the newer kid in the block. Although it resembles its big cousin, the SR150 in appearance, things are a bit different underneath. The motor is from the Vespa SXL 125, but it has been retuned to churn out a bit less power at 9.5bhp and 6250rpm. The CVT too, has been redone to suit the scooter’s nature. As the SR 125 wasn’t meant to be a fast scooter, the CVT has been configured to churn out better fuel efficiency. In order to differentiate the SR125 from the 150cc one, Piaggio has given it different colours, new seat and grab rails that look more like an afterthought. The remaining features like 14-inch wheels shod with Vee Rubber tyres, double-barrel headlight, instrument cluster and the brake setup have been carried forward from the SR150. The suspension too - non-adjustable telescopic at the front and monoshock at the rear - are from its more expensive sibling.  

The Access 125 is known for its no nonsense approach. The design isn’t enticing enough, but there are a few things that makes the Access 125 the highest seller in the segment. To begin with, it is the lightest in the class, thanks to the lighter chassis. The body panels aren’t bulky like some of its rivals, and that saves weight too. The 125cc motor is from the older iteration, but boasts of similar specs as the SR150 - 8.4bhp and 10.2Nm. But this one has the patented Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP). Unlike the Aprilia, the Access 125 has some usable features. One push central lock system, front storage pocket, charging unit, dual luggage hooks and the easy start system are the most important ones. The ride is taken care of by telescopic and monoshock at the front and rear, respectively. This scooter runs on 12-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels, just like all the other traditional scooters in the market. Suzuki is giving their customers the options to choose between a drum and disc brake setup. If the former is chosen, there’s no other option but to purchase the steel wheels variant.  

Game Play

Now that we have got the tech jargons out of the picture, let’s get to the main business. The Aprilia SR 125 is truly a trend setter here. With its Italian design and decals, this scooter has the ability to make you look cool and maybe, help you become the talk of the town. The large 14-inch wheels give you the feeling of owning some special and superior. It has the oomph factor and is also desirable. The ergonomics is a comfortable one, however, there’s limited floorboard space. This means carrying a Bisleri can is impossible. 

The SR125 has inherited all the positives and negatives from the SR150. The handling department is the most exciting one. The scooter behaves perfectly in corners. In fact, it’s quite addictive to tip-in into the corners on this machine. Riding this scooter in smooth roads brings a wide grin on the face. But things get a little disappointing upon hitting those pothole stretches. The stiff setup results in a lot of jarring. This gets tiring and spoils the overall experience. Plus, there’s the slow CVT response that makes me look again at the SR150 for a sporty scooter. There’s no initial excitement from this 125cc motor, nor does it have the capability to create interest in the product. This could be because the SR150 had set high expectations. The scooter manages to reach 80kmph without much fuss but try to go above 85kmph, and it will struggle. The brakes are fantastic. Even the rear drum brake performs flawlessly. 

The Access 125 has been BikeWale’s team favourite scooter because it manages to do everything really well. Be it commuting or some energetic riding, the Access 125 never failed to impress us. And this has been possible because of the perfect amalgamation of a lighter chassis and a potent motor. The scooter is faster, has an incredibly refined motor and leaps forward quickly as soon as you open the throttle. Life is just easier with the Access 125 within the city limits. The pliant ride and the comfortable ergonomics makes it a practical scooter too. The brakes too, are effective and provide a good amount of feedback on the levers. 

Verdict

The only common aspect between the Suzuki Access 125 and the Aprilia SR125 is the segment they belong too. When it comes to the other aspects, the scooters are quite different from each other. The SR125 was meant to be a young generation’s daily vehicle, whereas the Suzuki Access 125 is more likely to resonate with a matured audience, basically, a family. The SR125 can do things, but the numbers are limited. It can excite you for a bit and increase your coolness quotient and that’s about it. The Access 125, on the other hand, checks all the right boxes. It is easy to ride, the performance and handling are sorted, and it has features and provisions that makes it a perfect daily two-wheeler. Plus, it is cheaper than the Aprilia, has better service reach and carries a Japanese brand value which is always associated with engine refinement and outstanding reliability. So the Suzuki Access 125 is a clear winner here. 

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi

Final Scores

Specifications