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The Access possesses sleek styling and is a scooter of mid-size proportions. Smaller than the Kinetic Blaze, its non-metal panels fit together seamlessly, with flawless fit and finish. However, the design is conservative and does not grab any attention at all as we noticed during our test drive on the streets of Pune. This new Suzuki has a rounded and simple silhouette, with flush fitting clear indicators set into its front apron on both sides of a prominent and smart Suzuki logo.

There is speedometer, odometer and offset fuel gauge set around other predictable icons. A rear brake locking clamp is always at hand, allowing riders the reassurance of activating the rear brake when parked, to prevent the gearless scooter rolling backwards or forward. The Access restricts unlawful access by deterring thieves with a locking system that cuts off key entry via a shutter.

The latest Suzuki uses a near-perfect four-stroke, 124cc, automatic transmission-equipped powerplant that adopts the acronym XTP, short for X-tra Torque Performance. It’s an air-cooled, single-cylinder motor that has long stroke-bore dimensions of 53.5mm x 55.2mm. Feeding off a carburettor, this two-valve, alloy-encased engine makes a peak power figure of 8.58 bhp at 7000rpm, with maximum torque available at 5500 rpm totalling 1kgm. The Access also provides a convenient button-operated self-start with an optional kick starter lever tucked away close to the rear wheel. While the Access does come with a cable-operated manual choke just beneath the handlebar, to its credit the new scooter never once called for this to be actuated, despite being started on crisp winter mornings throughout its test duration.

Throughout its power band, the scooter displayed refined, completely vibration-free and super smooth behaviour. Performance is a significant notch better than any Indian 100cc scooter, thanks to its larger displacement. Top speed on the Access is 88kph and it got from nothing to 60kph in 8.98 seconds.

Only available on very few Indian scooters at present, the Access comes with telescopic front suspension; an expensive and superior piece of kit. Owing to this suspension, cornering on the Suzuki is as good as the best scooters out there. The new Suzuki takes 19.17 metres to come to rest from 60kph. Compared to the Activa, the Access provides less real estate space on its floorboard. It uses a steel tube frame, with the engine doubling as a stressed member that links to the scooter’s single rear hydraulic shock absorber. Ride quality is decent, and slightly on the firm side, but well organised enough to keep the vehicle stable.

The pillion sits in a restful posture with legs falling easily to the footrests.

The new Suzuki Access delivered 35.5kpl in the city and 38.5kpl on the highway.

What the Access has going for it is the fact that it comes with a well tuned, velvet-smooth 125cc engine that is typical of Suzuki. In addition, the telescopic front forks ensure that the scooter provides reassuring ride and handling. However, its price is slightly on the higher side and Suzuki will have to offer a lot more than just the above mentioned features to attract buyers.

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