Hero Karizma XMR

Price: Hero has priced the Karizma at Rs 1,79,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi). In fact, that means it's even more affordable than the Yamaha R15 V4! The bike's currently on sale in three colourways: Iconic Yellow, Turbo Red and Matte Phantom Black.

Design: While the OG Karizma had a bikini fairing, the new one is a fully-faired one and we think it looks very attractive. The full fairing and dual projector LED headlamp nail the faired bike look but with the raised handlebar, it remains true to its sport-tourer personality. That way, it's more like the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 than an out and out supersport like the KTM RC 200.

Features: The Karizma gets a fully digital LCD console that packs segment-first bits like turn-by-turn navigation. It even gets backlit switchgear and all-LED lighting.

Engine: Hero has given the Karizma a 210cc liquid-cooled 4-valve engine that makes 25.5PS at 9250RPM and 20.4Nm at 7250RPM. It's paired to a six-speed transmission and gets a slip and assist clutch.

Suspension, Brakes & Other Details: Suspension duties are taken care of by a telescopic fork and a gas charged monoshock with 6-step preload adjustability. There's a 300mm petal disc at the front and a 230mm petal one at the rear along with dual channel ABS. Other bits that make it a bit more practical include 160mm of ground clearance, an 810mm seat height and a 163.5kg kerb weight, making it a fairly light bike. It also gets an 11-litre fuel tank.

Rivals: Its rivals include the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250. Those looking for a sportier alternative in this segment, meanwhile, could have a look at the KTM RC 200.