MotorStar Sapphire 110 -II

Honda created a blueprint for the most versatile underbone moped with the Wave and no wonder it is so blatantly copied by so many manufacturers. Even so, there is room for improvement. MotorStar puts its own spin on the tried and tested formula and ends up resolving some of the issues with the Wave design. The Sapphire 110-II does away with the stalk-mounted indicators of the older model of the Wave and integrates them into the headlight and taillight cluster. This keeps the indicators from getting damaged during a fall or even getting snagged on another vehicle. This also gives the bike a three light setup that gives it a distinct look. There are other touches like the wavy design of the front apron and the fully enclosed design of the area behind the apron that gives the Sapphire a refined look. The old school silencer does look out of place but the three color schemes on offer – red, blue, and black – with grey paneling and stickers, give it a lot of style. The bike has compact dimensions with a length of 1900 mm, width of 700 mm and height of 1020 mm. The wheels are spoked and wrapped in skinny tires. The instrumentation is also basic and analog. But at this price point, these things are pretty much expected.

The MotorStar Sapphire 110-II comes with telescopic front forks and dual shock absorbers for the rear. The suspension does a decent job of keeping the vagaries of the road away from the rider. But nothing else. The seat is narrow and the skinny tires do not inspire much confidence. The seating position is neutral thanks to high handlebars in relation to the seat. But it is still best suited for short rides in the city.

The engine powering the Sapphire 110-II is a 109.6 cc air-cooled and carbureted unit. While official numbers are not available, the power delivered is enough to take the bike up to speeds of 90 kmph. This should not be much trouble because of the bike’s low weight of just 90 kg. It is not the most refined engine and vibrations can be felt at all speeds but that is what you get for a bike at this price point. The bike is otherwise rated for a maximum load of 150 kg. The engine comes with both a kick starter and an electric starter. The fuel tank has a capacity of 4.5L.

The company has provided the Sapphire 110-II with a disc brake on the front along with a drum brake for the rear. This does seem like a pleasant surprise when disc brakes are still not available on more expensive bikes in the same segment.

There is a case to be made for the affordability brought in by the MotorStar Sapphire 110-II. It delivers nice styling and commuter ready usability for a very cheap price. But it is still a cheap bike from a little known Chinese brand. Parts and service availability are sketchy at best and reliability is nothing to brag about either. And when the price is within the range of other competitors, why wouldn’t you spend that little bit extra and buy the Wave instead?