• Published On: 17 April 2017
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TVS' small capacity commuter is a reliable bet. TVS keeps it fresh with regular updates. How good is this version?

The original Star commuter bike debuted almost a decade ago in 2005 and TVS has given it a few noteworthy upgrades over the years, keeping it fresh and up to date with the competition. Lets take a look at this latest iteration.

On the outside
The updated bike looks virtually like a clone of the older motorcycle. Alloy wheels are standard, and the bike comes with black coating several parts, including its engine, exhaust muffler and wheels. The instruments are legible, and include a white background speedometer, digital fuel-gauge and TVS's trademark economy and power mode indicators. The updated bike comes with comfy control levers, comprehensive switchgear, decent mirrors, a quality paint job, and nice palm grips. The tail is distinctive looking, with a handy grab-bar and prominent tail light cluster.

Power Torque
Power comes from a 109cc, four-stroke, twin-valve, air-cooled powerplant. Maximum power available is 8.4hp at 7000rpm, and peak torque of 8.7Nm at 5000rpm. Performance isn’t as quick and peppy feeling as the faster bikes in this segment but is made up for in some way, being delivered with nice throttle response and smooth, refined manners.

               

The bike can go on to hit a top speed in the region of 90kph. The clutch feels good, light and the new TVS commuter bike's four gears shift smoothly in a four-up pattern. The bike is available with the option of an electric starter, while the basic variant comes with a kick-starter.

From the saddle
The upright riding posture, and well-padded seat, for both riders and their pillions, make it a joy to pilot in the city. It's a light motorcycle, the electric started bike weighing in at 109kg (kerb weight). The Star City + runs on 17-inch rims front and rear, and this new TVS bike offers good ride quality, proving a neutral steering and stable motorcycle to handle, with adequate cornering manners. The bike uses a 130mm drum brarke in front, and 110mm drum at rear, with a disc brake option sadly not provided. The brakes feel as good as expected on a small capacity commuter bike like this.

                 

Is it worth the money?
TVS's New Star is a worthy successor to TVS's established commuter bike. It comes with a few tweaks to keep it fresh and retains all its hallmarks.