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Virtual Mechanic

Car and bike questions? We have the answers

I have a four-year-old Honda Dio, which has clocked around 16,000km. Over the past year and a half I have experienced a starting problem (electric switch) for 4-5 attempts. I have to pull the choke each time to start the engine and run it for a few metres. This has resulted in low mileage. The Honda dealer replaced the entire starter assembly but after a successful four months, the problem has resurfaced. Does the Dio have a starter problem or is it a failed Honda model? Also please suggest any new good scooter in the near future.

Srikanth S, via email

There's no problem with the Dio. Its sibling, the Honda Activa has, over the years, proved itself to be a successful and reliable scooter. Also, mileage of your scooter will not be affected by the use of the choke each morning. It is normal to use the choke for a few minutes in the case the scooter requires it. Do note though that if the scooter is not used regularly, i.e. at least once every two days for a minimum distance of about 5km, the battery may run down and impede use of the starter. In this case, it makes sense for you to kick-start the scooter if it has not been used for a prolonged period.

I'm planning to buy the new 2006 model Bajaj Pulsar 180. Although, I'm not too much worried about mileage, I'll be a little concerned if it gives below 40-42 kpl consistently. If the mileage is not taken into account, how is this bike in terms of smoothness and handling compared to the Pulsar 150?

Dipankar Mohanty, via email

The Pulsar 180 returned us 44.3kpl in city and 49.1kpl on the highway in real-world testing. Fuel economy can vary a lot depending on conditions and riding habits will return about the same as what we got. So, the answer to your question is - no, economy should not drop below 42kpl unless you subject the bike to torturous conditions such as consistent high speed running or high rpm running. Smoothness and handling rate almost the same as the Pulsar 150, which is good. In short, the 180's a good bike.

With a budget of about Rs 4-5 lakh, we have shortlisted the Hyundai Getz and the soon-to-be-launched Chevrolet UV-A. I just wanted to know when it will be launched and whether the Chevy will be worth the wait. Will it have an edge over the Getz in terms of ride quality, handling, space, comfort, driveability and mileage?

Ankit, via email

It is worth waiting for the Chevrolet UV-A. It will be closely matched to the Hyundai Getz in terms of performance and we are hoping to test one shortly!

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