Honda decided to update its famous Dio scooter for 2018. Instead of the usual colour updates and decals, this time Honda decided to upgrade the scooter by equipping it with a host of useful features. They called it the DLX variant, and with this, the Yamaha Ray-Z gets a real tough competitor. We take a look at how these two stylish scooters stack up against each other.
Design & features
The Dio has been a favourite among college-goers because of its cool and trendy design. Over the years, the overall design language has remained unchanged, but the scooter has benefitted from subtle cosmetic changes and additions. The DLX variant, which is the top-spec model, gets an LED headlamp, digital console and exhaust metal shield. It also gets the four-in-one ignition key assembly with seat-release button.
The Yamaha Ray-Z hasn’t changed much over the last few months. It sports the same design and colours but even with that, the scooter manages to appeal to a lot of young buyers. The sharp front, large side panels and the aggressive tail attracts a lot of buyers to Yamaha showrooms. However, unlike the Dio, the console on the Ray-Z is all analogue.
Engine
The Honda Dio is powered by the proven 110cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that produces 8bhp at 7000rpm and peak torque of 8.91Nm at 5500rpm. The Yamaha Ray-Z gets a less powerful 110cc 7bhp. The torque figure stands at 8.1Nm at 5000rpm. Both the scooters are mated to a CVT gearbox
Cycle parts
Both the scooters are built around the under bone chassis. In terms of overall weight, both scooters weigh 104kgs. The Ray-Z and Dio DLX gets drum brake setup, however, the Dio DLX is equipped with CBS. Both the scooters ride on 10-inch wheels. The Honda Dio gets a 5.3-litres fuel tank, whereas the Ray-Z gets a 5-litre one.
Pricing
The Yamaha Ray-Z retails at Rs 50,817 (ex-showroom Delhi), whereas the Honda Dio DLX is priced at Rs 53,292 (ex-showroom Delhi). That’s a price difference of Rs 2,475, but with the additional equipment and cosmetic enhancement, the Dio’s higher price may well be justified.
