We CONDUCTED this comparison test in spite of a sizeable engine capacity disadvantage for the Activa. We felt engine size matters less for scooters, a plethora of other factors governing this crown more strongly.
The Activa has an engineering edge that can leave the Nova 135 lagging behind in certain respects, the Honda scooter often feeling almost characterless in perfection. Sure, the Nova's 135cc deals a Performance wallop to the slick and frugal Activa, but it lacks the street manners of the Honda.
The flip side is that it's high time Honda addresses the fact that consumers don't enjoy an infernal 45-day wait for their Activas. It's also time they started offering alloy wheels and essentials like a side-stand and front storage bin without any extra charge.
Let's put it this way. The two are essentially different scooters and this is where a consumer benefits. If you're a young student who wants the extra nip of the Nova 135, or a fast-paced individual lacking 45 days to spare in an age where four are precious, pick up the Nova 135 without a second thought. Yet, if you don't mind the slightly sedated Activa, and long for refinement and good handling, the Activa becomes the more obvious scooter to get your hands on.

TESTERS NOTES
Nova 135's vast storage bin is very thoughtfully illuminated.
Activa's headlight is a bit weak.
Nova 135's handlebar can snag on a tall rider's legs in sharp corners.
Lack of a brake lock for the Nova 135 is a nuisance.