Hero Xtreme 160R: Your Questions Answered

[Update: Hero has launched the Xtreme 160R. Know prices and more details here]

The 160cc sporty commuter segment is hotly contested with the likes of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and the Suzuki Gixxer battling it out at the top. Hero wants a piece of the action in this class with its new contender, the Hero Xtreme 160R. The bike looks promising and it even got a lot of people commenting about its neat styling on our walkaround video (click here to watch). However, there were a few queries in the comments section too. Here are the answers to the most common ones:

Q. Will the Hero Xtreme 160R be comfortable for short riders who are just 5 feet tall?
A. At 790mm seat height, the Xtreme 160R is one of the most accessible motorcycles in its class. If you are 5 feet tall, your feet should be able to reach the floor.

Q. What about pillion comfort?
A. Although we could not test pillion comfort at the unveil event, the Xtreme 160R features a long and well padded seat. Hence, it should be able to carry two healthy people on board. Stay tuned for a proper road test of the bike.

Q. What is the fuel efficiency of the bike?
Hero hasn’t claimed any fuel efficiency numbers for the new 163cc engine yet. Given that most 160cc motorcycles with a 2-valve motor (the Gixxer, the Yamaha FZ-S Fi and the Honda CB Hornet 160R) offer around 50-55kmpl, the Hero should not be any different.

Q. How much will it cost?
A. Hero is known to price its motorcycles attractively. In the past, it has managed to undercut its rivals by a considerable margin. Expect the same to continue with the Xtreme 160R as well. Likely to be launched in the coming weeks, it could be priced from Rs 90,000 for the rear drum variant to Rs 95,000 for the twin-disc version. (All prices ex-showroom Delhi)

Q. Can we expect a new Karizma in the future?
A. Hero officials have told us that for a brand as revered and sought after as the Karizma, Hero would have to pull out something truly special to honour the legend. That’s the reason why its recent full-faired bike was called the Xtreme 200S and not the Karizma 200. There are plans to introduce a proper adventure motorcycle with a large 350-400cc motor. Hopefully, this engine can make its way on to a faired machine bearing the iconic name. Sounds exciting?