Hero Xtreme 125R

Hero MotoCorp launched the Hero Xtreme 125R at the Hero World Day 2024 event in Jaipur at the manufacturer’s Center of Innovation and Technology (CIT). It's aimed at being a 125cc premium commuter bike and rivals models like the TVS Raider and Bajaj Pulsar NS125. To verify this, we briefly tested it on CIT's handling track.

Design

Now, let's discuss the looks. Even though it's called the Xtreme, it doesn't resemble the Xtreme 160R much. It has a big bikini fairing with a wide headlight featuring two LED projectors, giving it a unique appearance. Some are even comparing its look to the Ducati Streetfighter V4, possibly influenced by Hero's recent collaboration with Zero Motorcycles.

Moving down the bike, you'll notice large tank extensions that appear imposing. However, from certain angles, especially when you're on the bike, they might seem a bit awkward due to their width and low positioning. While they add a sense of weight to the Xtreme 125R, opinions on them are divided. 

In the middle of the bike, there's a stylish two-tone centre panel that enhances its sporty vibe. The tail is clean and tidy, featuring a rear tyre hugger. Overall, the design is sporty, but it's definitely unconventional. Hero seems to have lived up to their claim of sportiness, at least when it comes to the design.

Engine, Performance & Mileage

The Hero Xtreme 125R is powered by a completely new engine, although it likely originated from the motor used in the Glamour or Super Splendor. Hero insists they've extensively worked on various parts, making it essentially a new engine. It's a 125cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that delivers 11.55PS of peak power and 10.5Nm of peak torque. While these numbers may not seem high, they rank near the top in the 125cc category, just slightly behind the Pulsar NS 125.

According to Hero, the Xtreme 125R can accelerate from 0 to 60kmph in just 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 95kmph. These claims seem credible based on the bike's performance on Hero's test track, where we observed around 98kmph on the speedometer. These figures are commendable for this class of bike.

The standout feature of this engine is its refinement. It remains smooth and free of vibrations until you push the revs near the redline. However, you won't need to rev it so hard thanks to its tractability. The bike can maintain speeds as low as 20-22kmph in fourth gear without struggling to accelerate. This makes it convenient for city riding with fewer gear changes.

If you're in the mood for spirited riding, the engine felt punchy  while testing it on Hero's handling track andit showed strong acceleration out of tight corners in second gear. 

Hero also claims an impressive fuel efficiency of 66kmpl for the Xtreme 125R, placing it among the top performers in mileage for this segment.

Handling & Ride Quality

According to Hero, several features on this bike are the first in its category. One notable feature is the 37mm telescopic fork, making it the thickest among 125cc bikes. It's as large as the fork on the Xtreme 160R. The bike also gets a seven-step preload-adjustable monoshock at the back. What's truly impressive is the new chassis.

Hero has been creating bikes with outstanding chassis in recent years, and the Xtreme 125R follows suit. The combination of this chassis, new suspension, and 17-inch wheels (a first for any sub-150cc Hero bike) gives the bike excellent handling characteristics. Despite its 136kg weight, it feels lighter, and during turns on the CIT handling track, it proved to be quite nimble.

Initially, the front end felt a bit light in the first few laps. However, once you trust the front end and commit to corners, the Xtreme 125R becomes stable and instils confidence through turns. The confidence is also attributed to the MRF Zapper tyres, larger than most 125cc bikes in the market (90/90-17 at the front and 120/80-17 at the rear).

The Xtreme 125R is available in two variants: single-channel ABS with a 276mm front disc and IBS (Integrated Braking System) with a 240mm disc. Both variants include a standard 130mm drum at the rear. We rode the ABS version, and the brakes performed well with a good bite and lever feel. Importantly, the Xtreme 125R is the only bike in its class with ABS, surpassing even the most powerful and our favorite, the TVS Raider, in this aspect.

Comfort

The Xtreme 125R has a pretty low 794mm seat height, making it easy for even shorter riders to place their feet on the ground comfortably. The seat itself is wide, allowing easy movement, even for those taller than 6 feet. The slightly rear-set footpegs and the tall handlebar results in an upright sitting position—a nice balance between a sporty and commuter stance. This setup is ideal for city rides, occasional highway journeys, and could even bring some fun on a weekend adventure along twisty mountain roads.

Features

The Xtreme 125 has a compact yet tidy display. It's a fully digital, negative LCD console providing essential information like speed, rpm, odometer, two tripmeters, and average fuel consumption. While it's a very simple setup, it does the job effectively.

Should You Buy The Hero Xtreme 125R?

We were a bit doubtful at first when Hero claimed they achieved the perfect mix of commuting and sportiness with the Xtreme 125R. However, after spending some time with it, it's evident they seem to have nailed this balance in almost every aspect of the bike.

The Xtreme 125R starts at Rs 95,000 for the IBS model, and if you prefer ABS, it'll cost you Rs 99,500 (both prices ex-showroom Delhi). The pricing is quite attractive, undercutting competitors like the Pulsar NS125 and even the top-end TVS Raider. 

So, if you're in the market for a 125cc commuter bike that can bring some excitement on occasion, the Hero Xtreme 125R should definitely be on your radar.