Mahindra Duro 125 DZ

Overview

Compared to the Honda Activa, the Duro’s design appears equally conventional and conservative – it’s not a risk-taker, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t something to appreciate. In essence, the Duro DZ bears a close resemblance to the previous Duro model, but with some noticeable differences. The brand new design of its clear-lens headlight looks sleeker and provides better road illumination, and the bike’s front mudguard has been modified to make room for the telescopic suspension. The front of the bike is certainly pleasing, but it is let down by a rather bland and function rear, and the overall quality of the finish is below the average industry standard and can appear slightly cheap.

Instrument Console

The redesigned instrument console has been well thought out for usability, with all instruments clearly laid out and easy to read at a glance. On the speedometer, the economy-riding zone of 30kph to 50kph is marked out clearly in green to encourage efficient fuel usage, and the fuel gauge is displayed prominently to the right of it. The control levers are comfortable to use and feature a brake-locking clamp, and there are push-to-cancel functions. However, the bike’s palm grips are strangely shaped and have a negative impact on the riding experience.

Engine and Gearbox

124.6cc 4-stroke petrol engine Maximum power of 8 Bhp at 7000 rpm Maximum torque of 9 Nm at 5500 rpm Equipped with a powerful 4-stroke, 124.6cc DI engine with automatic (gearless) transmission, capable of maximum power of 8 Bhp at 7000 rpm, and a maximum torque of 9.0 Nm at 5500 rpm. Mahindra claim that the scooter can clamber up steep flyovers easily, even when carrying a pillion rider, due to the scooter’s strong pick-up and robust acceleration. The engine is certainly powerful, but has been de-tuned for greater fuel efficiency, which means that you won’t feel the full force of its 125cc capacity. However, the delivery is nevertheless pleasing, and makes inner city overtakes effortless.

Acceleration and Top Speed

The bike’s smooth ride is resilient even when accelerating, although the response time is a little slower than you might hope for. The bike’s top speed is claimed to be a speedy 80 kmph.

Mileage

Mahindra proudly claims that the Duro DZ gives better mileage than any of its competitors, thanks to an Advanced Dual-Curve Digital Ignition engine, which is capable of automatically adjusting in response to changing loads on the bike. This helps to optimize the bike’s fuel consumption, for a longer lasting ride and more efficient fuel usage over time. It consistently returns a mileage of 42 kmpl, which is respectable but not quite up to the Honda Activa’s 45-50 kmpl.

Comfort While Driving

Overall, the DZ has a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The seat is wide and well positioned, with a standard upright position characteristic of scooters of this class. However, the footrests for the pillion are somewhat bulky and crude, and Duro’s footboard is positioned far too high in proximity to the seat, a basic design flaw that should have been caught during the upgrade from the last generation of Mahindra Duro.

Safety Features

The bike’s design shows clear attention to safety. Its lengthy wheelbase and enhanced braking system offer improved stability and security while riding and its handlebar-mounted halogen headlamp gives a broader beam for wider visibility. The rear brake’s lock lever is another nice safety addition for parking on slopes.

Storage Space

Storage is another area in which the scooter excels. The scooter’s under-seat storage has a capacity of 20 litres, which is among the largest in its market segment. This is in addition to generous front storage.

Suspension

The bike is designed to be an equal match to rough surfaces and tough roads, featuring an advanced telescopic suspension to give you a perfectly smooth ride even over roads pitted with bumps and pot-holes. In comparison with standard trailing suspension systems, the bike’s suspension holds up, although its riding position is somewhat off-track. The telescopic suspension certainly allows you to feel confident while maneuvering at top speed, and most bumps are absorbed with relatively little fuss.

Brakes

The brakes of the DZ have undergone an overhaul since the last gen Duro, and it now offers 130mm brakes at the front and the rear. These are competent, providing solid stopping power, and the levers feel capable and balanced.

Ride and Handling

With its higher-than-average ground clearance, the bike is able to glide over bumpy and uneven road surfaces with ease. The raised handlebars certainly help to accommodate riders of varying sizes and give them a greater feeling of control. The bike’s handling is generally very good: it corners well, although its lightweight feel means that it can feel unstable during leans.

Tyre Size

The front and rear tires are 3.5” x 10, and the wider wheelbase and tires improve the bike’s stability and handling, while its MRF Zapper tires give great grip on a variety of surfaces.

Shades

The Mahindra Duro 125 DZ is available in a choice of 7 elegant shades: Fiery Black, Pearl White, Cappuccino Brown, Mystique Grey, Royal Purple, Supreme Silver and Derby Red.

Accessories

Few accessories are included as standard with the Duro DZ, but the bike is readily customizable with seat covers and more.

Distinctive Features

The Duro DZ features an extra-large fuel tank, capable of storing up to 6.5 litres of fuel – a welcome feature that reduces the number of fill-ups needed.

Reasons to Buy

Tough, powerful, smart and efficient, the Mahindra Duro DZ is also a comfortable, stable and safe ride with some superior features that make it readily able to handle tough roads.

Value for Money

The Mahindra Duro DZ represents good value for money, thanks to a powerful engine and greatly upgraded suspension.

Verdict

Compared to the Duro 2011, the DZ is a far superior scooter that does away with many of that previous model’s flaws, particularly its troublesome suspension and poor design. The DZ is certainly a respectable buy, although if handling is important you might wish to hold out for the Honda Activa.

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