Modenas CT 115S

Immediate concerns would be drawn towards the fact that this underbone looks so much like the Yamaha LC135 SuperSport. But that is not essentially a bad thing. Imitation is the best form of flattery. Besides, the CT115S has enough styling elements to distinguish itself from the Yamaha while building upon the same basics. So, the design is edgy and aggressive.

The front apron cuts a familiar picture with large indicators surrounded by thick black borders making it look like thick eyeliner. Nestled between the indicators is another small triangular pilot light. The crease at the point where the front apron meets the side panels gives it some extra aggression. As we move back we find the back of the apron filled with bold vents and slashes. The tail section is equally aggressive with a high rising rear seat. The taillight cluster with the integrated indicators goes well with the wavy and sporty grab rail. Then there are the graphics, the blacked out components and the red and blue color options that make it look good from every angle. Even smaller details like the rear seat foot pegs look like machined components. The blackened exhaust and the clutch plate enclosure are painted with nickel color accents that make them really stand out.

At 1970 mm long, 725 mm wide, and 1084 mm tall with a wheelbase of 1260 mm, this is a compact underbone. The wheels are equally stylish 17-inch Y spoke alloys shod with 70/90 front and 80/90 tires in the rear. The instrumentation is basic but still stylish. The bike does have some quality issues as expected with some shoddy panel gaps and ugly welds but nothing that should actually concern you. Under the seat is a 12V charging outlet that can be used to charge devices – a first in this class.

Modenas has provided the CT115S with a 5 step adjustable monoshock at the rear and a telescopic front fork in the front. The bike’s seating position and thin seat is best suited for short to medium height riders. The bike is agile and easy to ride with the only fly in the ointment being the thin tires.

Just being good to look at is not going to cut it, however. The bike has to perform as well. Powering the Modenas CT115S is powered by a 115 cc carbureted and air-cooled engine which produces a maximum output of 8.8 hp at 9,000rpm and 8.1 Nm of peak torque at 5,000rpm. The engine is paired with a four-speed transmission and comes with both an electric and a kick starter. The engine puts out some good numbers in power as well as efficiency. The company claims that the bike will deliver over 46 kmpl at 80 kmph which is really promising in this segment. With a 4.8-litre fuel tank, expect very few petrol fill-ups.

Braking is also well catered for with a dual piston calliper disc brake on the front and a drum brake on the rear wheel.

Yes, it is built to a price but it does not feel cheap. It is also a good performer, comes with some surprising equipment to boot and looks better than any sub RM 5000 bike has any right to. Definitely worth a look if you are in the market for one.