TVS Jupiter: 1,500km Long Term Review

“New model?” inquires the person standing next to me at a traffic signal. “Yes”, I said. The journalist in me couldn’t resist asking back, what caught his fancy about the TVS Jupiter. The query was hinted at the fuel tank lid, uniquely positioned at the back of the scooter, between the seat and the tail lamp, and obviously the 3D logo in chrome. As we wait for the traffic signal to turn green, I anticipate the most popular question motorists ask in our country. Taking a closer look at the scooter he asked “Kitna deti hai?” I replied “About 50kmpl in the city,” which quite impressed him. 

My experience in the last month with the new TVS Jupiter has been a great one. Of course, the smart design, telescopic forks and large 12-inch alloy wheels makes the scooter quite a head turner. Especially since it is white, the favourite vehicle colour of the state. And I have judiciously used the spacious footboard by carrying my laptop bag along with a couple of grocery bags, which it accommodates with ease. I particularly like the fact that TVS offers two useful hooks, one on the front, a little below the ignition key, and the other just below the seat. There’s ample under-seat storage too, but it just about fits an open face helmet. It’s a bit of squeeze to be honest.

The TVS Jupiter has done about 1,500km. The 110cc engine is mostly smooth and stress free in both the easy going economy mode (a green light on the console guides the rider to attain better fuel economy) and also when I wring the throttle on open roads. The performance is adequate but not really breathtaking. The comfortable suspension setup of the TVS Jupiter handles bad roads well and doesn’t bottom out easily making it perfect for the city

Of late, I have noticed a rattling sound from the exhaust. Sometimes, the front end also lets out a ‘thud’ sound, which probably is the meter-cable hitting the front mudguard. I’m sure these minor issues will be ironed out once I send the TVS Jupiter for servicing this week. It’s quite a well sorted, hassle free scooter and I am quite satisfied with this ride. Hope it remains this way.