New Hero 125cc bike spied

Hero MotoCorp has a number of launches (both scooters and bikes) in the pipeline for 2015 and one of those to be caught on camera testing recently is a new 125cc motorcycle.

From the spy pictures, the bike does resemble the current Hero Passion on sale and could well be a 125cc version of the Passion. What’s new is a lot of cosmetic changes - a new pair of 6-spoke alloys, an upgraded instrument panel featuring a digital speedometer, smoked taillights and what could possible be a new colour scheme as well. Overall design of the bike though, is in line with the commuter segment it caters to and is on the conservative side.

What’s significant and the most important change is in the powerplant. A larger cylinder head on the test mule suggests the new bike will get a bump in displacement – an all-new 125cc engine which has been designed by Hero MotoCorp, possibly with inputs from partner Eric Buell Racing.

Expect enhanced performance and fuel efficiency from this engine, two key aspects in this class of motorcycles. The bike will go head on against the Honda Shine, the current leader in this segment, and will be priced around Rs 50,000-53,000.

What’s not clear is whether this bike will replace either the Super Splendor or the Glamour, both of which are in the same category, or if Hero will continue to offer this bike as another 125cc option in this segment.

(Pictures: Gaadiwaadi.com)