Mahindra Rodeo UZO 125

The new Mahindra Rodeo UZO 125 is the latest avatar of their first scooter, the Rodeo. It was the very scooter from the brand launched in 2009. The Rodeo was a good looking powerful scooter, still it failed to impress the Indian scooter market. Later, Mahindra re-launched this model with some upgrades in the form of Rodeo RZ, which was another set back for the brand in 2012. Mahindra has discontinued both these models and launched the 3rd generation of Rodeo in the form of Rodeo UZO 125.



The Engine and Performance
Rodeo was one powerful scooter filled with everything that youth demands. It was one of those scooter to get 125cc engine along with Honda and Suzuki. The latest UZO 125 has retained the very same powertrain from the first generation. It uses the powerful 124.6cc, single cylinder engine equipped with Advanced DCDI Technology and ATLA system to enhance its performance figures. Mahindra has also employed a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), which ensures lightning-fast response during overtakes and provides the motor racing experience to the riders. It is expected to have an awesome mileage of 59kmpl, which is a solid figure for 125cc scooter.

The engine is mated with belt driven CVT automatic transmission. And the mill delivers a maximum power of 8.2 Ps @ 7000 rpm and a peak torque of 9 Nm @ 5500 rpm. The engine accelerates with a spirit and helps in seamless overtakes. On longer rides, the engine doesn't feel much refined like other 125cc scooters in the market. And the top speed mark of 125kmph doesn't sounds much for a 125cc scooter.

Design and Features
Just like the Rodeo RZ, UZO continues to be a sleek scooter. Mechanically, nothing has been changed from the old Rodeo and the notable changes remains to be on the cosmetic department of the vehicle. On the front, vertical long racing stripes runs all the way from headlamp case to the mudguard cover. Rear view mirrors too are decorated with those racing graphics. Moreover, this racing stripes are also features along side body panels to the front fender and reaches rear turn indicators. The front apron features vertical clear lens indicators and a V-shaped chrome badge below the headlamp. UZO also gets high quality contrast stitching to bring out a premium feel for the scooter.



The new UZO gets all the cool features from its predecessor. The front mounted fuel lid below the handlebar, mobile charging socket and fully digital instrument console tops the list. The instrument cluster displays tachometer, speedometer, fuel-gauge, clock, speedometer, trip meter, side stand indicator and lap timer. Not only that, the rider can manually select the background color of the console from the six available colors. Other advanced features include, anti-theft shutter mechanism, parking brake clamp lever and 22-litre underseat storage space with illumination. All these features are considered to be best-in-class and tops the alternatives. The overall fit and finish is better than TVS and Yamaha. Anti-theft indicator is the other major attractive feature found in Gusto 125 as well.

Chassis, Suspension and Braking
Just like the original Rodeo, this one also gets Tubular type chassis. It is one solid frame that well adapted to all road conditions. Rodeo UZO 125 gets advanced telescopic front suspension, which keeps the rider steady and comfortable in all road conditions and situations. At the back it features single -sided hydraulic coil springs. By considering the weight, the suspension system can be easily absorb all the bumps and shocks from the roads. The stopping force of the UZO is provided by 130mm drum brakes at both the ends.


Conclusion
From the first generation Rodeo, there are no major changes to the scooter, apart from those racing stripes running all over the skin. Mahindra could have worked a bit on the mechanical as well as cosmetic side to enrich the scooter's performance as well as the visual appearance. Mahindra UZO 125 is available in Velocity White, Racetrack Black, Victory Violet and Bolt Black colors. Of which Velocity White and Racetrack Black gets theme based red painted wheels.