There's no two ways to this: the two-tone Wave looks better, the Activa rather plain in comparison. The Wave's styling is based on the Saffire, with a few detail updates like the large new silencer can, which looks terrific. It has a raked front apron, with flush-set indicators mounted below a 'slice-of-the-moon' headlamp, far brighter than the Activa's.
There's a trendy instrument bay, but the Honda's clearer, simpler one looks far better. Both scooters have comfy palm grips, but again, the Activa's seem slightly better designed. What we didn't like were the sharp edges of the Wave's headlamp nacelle, which can give you a few skinned knuckles. On the same sorry note, the scooter has a poorly positioned choke-lever and lacks the necessary rear-brake lock — neither of which are woes on the Honda. The Wave also has a turn-signal chime — whether that is a pro or a con is up to the buyer. Handbrake levers are solid enough on both scooters, while we preferred the mirrors on the Wave.
Front-storage and a side-stand are standard on the Wave, but only paid options on the Activa; however, the Wave has slightly less under-seat storage space than the Activa. The Wave's floorboard was nice, textured and attractive but without a cumbersome rubber mat; we liked the comfortable alloy passenger footrests too. The two-tone grab-rail is stylish, but there is no space for a stepney — the Activa at least has this as an option.
The Activa is clad with steel panels, unlike its plastic rival; the look is clean and uncluttered, but a bit drab. Fit and finish are great, though, a step above the Bajaj's.
The Activa offers puncture- repelling tyres and another plus in the form of 'CLIC', a feature that allows mechanics ease of access to the engine by tipping up the entire body..