BY DEEPAK GILL, Star Motoring,
Malaysia.
Sunday May 7, 2006
HONDA has a new “cub” on the street, called Wave.
There’s a choice of three versions, and one features an
electric starter. With prices from RM3,888, they are pretty
reasonable value-for-money machines.
The four-speed Wave 100 for 2006 is similar to the previous
model, except for some minor improvements. Two of the versions (called
100R) have disc brakes in the front, giving better stopping
power compared to the ancient drums. The drums in the rear
brakes have been maintained.
The 100MSR has an electric starter, which starts very
efficiently. There’s also the option of the kick starter.
The rear spring suspension is a more dynamic version that is
said to increase ride comfort, while the front utilises
upside-down forks.
One significant change is the use of wider tyres for
increased stability and better handling, especially in the turns.
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The Wave 100 is Honda’s latest small motorcycle.
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The grip for the pillion is a slightly-raised bar above the rear
light.
The foot-pegs however are of the very old-fashioned straight
rubber ones, not very suitable for a modern-looking bike.
For storage, there’s something called a “U-box,” a deep-set
compartment under the seat that would be able to hold small to
medium-sized items. It certainly keeps your wallet and handphone
dry when you get caught in an unexpected storm.
Lights have been improved, with increased brightness; the
front ones have a double lens that gives a clear light, though
the beam is directed too close.
Instrumentation includes fuel level, speed, gear and turn
signal. All models are fitted with a maintenance-free battery, a
real convenience.
At 97cc and a four-stroke engine, don’t expect any major
power.
The acceleration is pretty reasonable for level road with
gear well spaced out for smooth acceleration at all engine
revs.
However, going up hill with a pillion rider can be quite slow.
Thankfully there’s a gear indicator panel, so after some
trial and error you’ll figure out the best gears for gradients.
Its suspension system soaks up bumps and potholes well, and
mounted to a more rigid chassis tends to give a wobble-free and
better ride stability.
The four-stroke engine has less acceleration but is a lot
cleaner and does not emit the stinking white smoke that the
two-stroke bikes do.
There’s no clutch.
Its frugal fuel consumption would definitely make the Wave a
good choice for those who are watching their monthly petrol
bills carefully.
The 100R is available in maroon, silver, blue or red, while
the 100 comes in orange, black, green or blue. Warranty is for
one year or 10,000km. Prices on-the-road are between RM3,888 and
RM4,591