Aurelia Butler

Latest story

125 Shares18 Views

TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Trademarked Ahead Of Launch

by

TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design PatentedAt Auto Expo 2025, TVS Motor briefly showcased its upcoming Apache RTX 300 ADV motorcycle and then took it out of the stage. The keen eyes of Indian automotive fraternity captured images of this motorcycle in production-spec before it happened. Now, TVS Apache RTX 300 launch seems to be nearing as it is patented in India.
TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV
This is the first time TVS is venturing into ADV genre and Apache RTX 300 will be their maiden product in this category. The patent design shows that TVS is going for an Adventure Tourer format, instead of an all-out off-roader. This is a rather welcome approach by TVS Motor as it is their first ADV and more off-road worthy products may launch in the future.
TVS Apache RTX Name Trademarked
Apache RTX 300 will target both off-road enthusiasts and tourers alike. The motorcycle looks large and accommodating for long journeys. It seems to have an upright riding posture and a tall windscreen (which may be adjustable) to protect riders from windblast. We can see a luggage rack at the rear to accommodate a top box along with multiple provisions to mount luggage.
Where design is concerned, TVS is going for a semi-fairing with muscular tank extensions that flow into the headlight section. Speaking of headlight, it seems to be a quad barrel LED reflector setup split into two sections (low beam and high beam). Turn indicators are sleek LED units and protrude out of the fairing.
TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Patented
Adventure Tourer
Seat is of split design and has a pronounced step for pillion, offering more comfort. Handlebar are slightly high set, offering a relaxed riding posture for rider. Also, TVS Apache RTX 300 have ORVMs mounted on handlebar and not on its fairing. Rear gets LED tail lights, sleek LED turn indicators and a tyre hugger.
TVS’ maiden ADV is getting premium components too. We get USD telescopic front forks finished in a lovely Gold shade along with rear mono-shock setup. Front wheel is likely to be 19-inch and rear 17-inch. It gets single petal disc brake setup at both ends and switchable dual channel ABS may be part of the package.
TVS RT-XD4 Engine
New RT-XD4 engine
This motorcycle is expected to be powered by TVS’ new RT-XD4 engine, mated to a slipper clutch, a quickshifter and a 6-speed gearbox. Peak power is around 35 bhp and peak torque is around 28.5 Nm. This is a 299cc engine which is liquid-cooled and could get a DOHC 4V/cylinder head.
Spy shots have shown a horizontal instrument cluster which might be a colour TFT unit. Bluetooth connectivity along with SmartXonnect app integration might allow music control, notification alerts and even navigation. Launch is likely to happen soon and price could start from around Rs 2.8 lakh (Ex-sh). More

More stories

  • 125 Shares18 Views

    in Bike

    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Trademarked Ahead Of Launch

    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design PatentedAt Auto Expo 2025, TVS Motor briefly showcased its upcoming Apache RTX 300 ADV motorcycle and then took it out of the stage. The keen eyes of Indian automotive fraternity captured images of this motorcycle in production-spec before it happened. Now, TVS Apache RTX 300 launch seems to be nearing as it is patented in India.
    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV
    This is the first time TVS is venturing into ADV genre and Apache RTX 300 will be their maiden product in this category. The patent design shows that TVS is going for an Adventure Tourer format, instead of an all-out off-roader. This is a rather welcome approach by TVS Motor as it is their first ADV and more off-road worthy products may launch in the future.
    TVS Apache RTX Name Trademarked
    Apache RTX 300 will target both off-road enthusiasts and tourers alike. The motorcycle looks large and accommodating for long journeys. It seems to have an upright riding posture and a tall windscreen (which may be adjustable) to protect riders from windblast. We can see a luggage rack at the rear to accommodate a top box along with multiple provisions to mount luggage.
    Where design is concerned, TVS is going for a semi-fairing with muscular tank extensions that flow into the headlight section. Speaking of headlight, it seems to be a quad barrel LED reflector setup split into two sections (low beam and high beam). Turn indicators are sleek LED units and protrude out of the fairing.
    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Patented
    Adventure Tourer
    Seat is of split design and has a pronounced step for pillion, offering more comfort. Handlebar are slightly high set, offering a relaxed riding posture for rider. Also, TVS Apache RTX 300 have ORVMs mounted on handlebar and not on its fairing. Rear gets LED tail lights, sleek LED turn indicators and a tyre hugger.
    TVS’ maiden ADV is getting premium components too. We get USD telescopic front forks finished in a lovely Gold shade along with rear mono-shock setup. Front wheel is likely to be 19-inch and rear 17-inch. It gets single petal disc brake setup at both ends and switchable dual channel ABS may be part of the package.
    TVS RT-XD4 Engine
    New RT-XD4 engine
    This motorcycle is expected to be powered by TVS’ new RT-XD4 engine, mated to a slipper clutch, a quickshifter and a 6-speed gearbox. Peak power is around 35 bhp and peak torque is around 28.5 Nm. This is a 299cc engine which is liquid-cooled and could get a DOHC 4V/cylinder head.
    Spy shots have shown a horizontal instrument cluster which might be a colour TFT unit. Bluetooth connectivity along with SmartXonnect app integration might allow music control, notification alerts and even navigation. Launch is likely to happen soon and price could start from around Rs 2.8 lakh (Ex-sh). More

  • 150 Shares38 Views

    in Bike

    New KTM Supersport Bike Spied Without Camouflage – Is This RC 160?

    Is this the new KTM RC 160?
    KTM seems to be working on a 160cc platform to position below its 200cc lineup, which might replace its 125cc lineup (125 Duke and RC 125). Speculations suggest the launch of both RC 160 and 160 Duke. A new KTM RC motorcycle has been spied in India, sparking speculations of it being the new KTM RC 160. Let’s take a closer look.
    New KTM RC 160 Spied?
    Team Orange is poised to make major revisions in its Indian portfolio. We’re talking about the phase-out plan of its 125cc lineup (125 Duke and RC 125) and replacing them with more potent motorcycles to directly rival Yamaha’s R15 and MT-15. Bajaj has not officially confirmed these speculations in any capacity.
    However, a recent spy shot shows a KTM RC motorcycle in launch-ready form without any camouflage. It even has graphics and other paraphernalia like a vehicle already launched or about to launch. It features a new colourway with White at the front and Black at the rear and Orange wheels, which KTM currently does not offer with RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390.
    The source of this spy shot mentioned that they witnessed a “RC 160 sticker embossed” on its fairing. If it is to be believed, this is an interesting development where we can see KTM directly taking on Yamaha R15 and MT-15. This duo has been clocking 20K+ sales every month like clockwork and are priced at a premium.
    KTM RC 200 : Image for reference
    What to expect?
    A combination of price and sales potential seems to have attracted KTM India to carve out a new motorcycle below its 200cc portfolio. We can expect both Duke and RC versions of this new platform with premium components. We’re talking about USD front forks, rear mono-shock, premium braking with dual-channel ABS, fat tyres, a quickshifter and more.
    Where pricing is concerned, we can expect it to cost around Rs 2 lakh (Ex-sh). For context, KTM RC 125 is priced at Rs 1.92 lakh (Ex-sh) and RC 200 is priced at Rs 2.21 lakh (Ex-sh), while Yamaha R15 prices start from Rs 1.85 lakh (Ex-sh). Bajaj or KTM India are yet to confirm these developments.
    Where powertrains are concerned, speculations suggest a new 160cc DOHC 4V/cylinder single cylinder liquid cooled engine derived from KTM’s 20cc mill. This engine is expected to deliver a peak power of around 18 bhp and can be mated to a slipper clutch, a quickshifter and a 6-speed gearbox.
    Source More

  • 125 Shares47 Views

    in Bike

    New Electric Scooter Spied – Is This Affordable Bajaj Chetak?

    Is this the new affordable Bajaj Chetak?Chetak has single handedly propelled Bajaj to the top of the electric two-wheeler segment and more opportunities could be unlocked with newer models
    After achieving leadership position in the electric two-wheeler segment, Bajaj will be looking to further increase its market share. The next phase of growth could be powered by newer, more affordable models. Recent spy shots of a new electric scooter with a new design and dimensions, which could be Bajaj’s new affordable Chetak electric scooter. Let’s find out all that’s new and exciting about the new model spotted on road tests.
    Bajaj new electric scooter – What to expect?
    While the identity of this electric scooter test mule is not confirmed, speculations point towards an affordable Bajaj Chetak, which is currently dominating the segment. This new scooter looks smaller in size too, when compared to Chetak, currently on sale. Bajaj could be on the journey to aggressively expand Chetak portfolio with a smaller and more affordable scooter than current Chetak.
    Bajaj new electric scooter could be offered at a starting price of around Rs 80,000. In comparison, the Chetak range starts at Rs 96,000. Launch could happen by 2025 end or in 2026. Bajaj has a slew of names registered in India and one of them might make it to this scooter. These include Technik, Tecnica, Zinger, Bomber, Elixir, Aura and more. Or we can see it as Chetak XXXX, bearing a smaller number than current base model, Chetak 2903.
    Retro vibes, as seen with Bajaj Chetak, are there with the new model as well. It has circular headlamps, oval rear-view mirrors and a broad front fender. It is possible that the scooter could be using a circular instrument console, something similar to that of Chetak. There are likely to be other retro design elements too, but difficult to peek through the heavy camouflage.
    Is this the new affordable Bajaj Chetak?
    Hardware that can be seen includes alloy wheels (likely to be 12-inch units) and dual rear shock absorbers. Braking setup comprises a front disc brake, whereas the rear could get a drum setup. While Chetak has dual tail lamp design, this new model can be seen with a single-piece tail lamp format. Dimensionally, the new Bajaj electric scooter seems to have a more compact profile in comparison to Chetak. That makes it suitable for handling the heavy traffic seen in urban centres.
    Performance, range
    Assuming that this new Bajaj electric scooter will be affordably priced, its performance could be relatively lower. It could use a smaller capacity battery pack, resulting in a lower range. For context, Chetak base variant (2903) is offered with a 2.9 kWh battery pack. It has a range of 123 km.
    The top Chetak variants, 3501 and 3502, are equipped with a 3.5 kWh battery pack. They have a range of 153 km. Top speed could also be lower for the upcoming Bajaj electric scooter. Chetak base variant has a top speed of 63 km/h, whereas top variants can reach 73 km/h.
    Is this the new affordable Bajaj Chetak?
    No-frills scooter
    While Chetak has a mid-mounted motor, the new scooter is expected to use a hub-mounted motor. The latter uses less components and is relatively cheaper to manufacture. Such changes will reduce production cost, allowing Bajaj to launch the new scooter at an affordable price.
    With focus on targeting the entry-level electric scooter segment, the new Bajaj scooter could also be missing out on some of the premium features. For example, the colour LCD instrument panel of Chetak could be replaced with a negative LCD display. Base variants of the new scooter could also get fewer connectivity features in comparison to the options available with Chetak.
    Source More

  • 150 Shares28 Views

    in Bike

    2025 Hyosung Aquila 125cc Bobber Launch Price EUR 4,699 (Rs 4.42 L)

    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X BlackIndian motorcycling fraternity is no stranger to Hyosung brand, which briefly operated in the country under the strategic partnership with DSK. From Hyosung, we had the Aquila lineup in India consisting of Aquila GV250 and Aquila Pro GV650. In Germany, Hyosung just launched GV125 X, which has seen a major design transformation of this Bobber style motorcycle.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    The 125cc Aquila cruiser motorcycle, called GV125 S, is a popular offering in markets like Germany as a beginner motorcycle. Now, South Korean brand Hyosung has introduced a new version of GV125 for 2025 model year. Called Hyosung Aquila GV125 X, this motorcycle has been transformed in terms of design and bears a much youthful appeal.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    When compared to GV125 S, 2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X is a much more special motorcycle, bearing a Bobber style. In Germany, Hyosung Aquila GV125 X is priced at EUR 4,699 (approx Rs 4.42 lakh) and it gets quite a lot of elements as standard fitment. There are two colour options – Titan Glossy and Black.
    In Germany, Aquila GV125 X is popular as a beginner motorcycle as it can be used by individuals above 16 years with A1 class driving license and with the extension of car driver’s license class B196. In Germany, GV125 S usually fares in the country’s top 20 new motorcycle registrations.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    Bobber Style
    Notable elements are the shiny engine casing, a 2-in-2 exhaust system, dual-tone cast aluminium wheels, fat tyres (120-section front and 150-section rear), a chiseled 14L fuel tank with Hyosung logo, single disc brakes at both ends with ABS, single-piece seat, LED lighting all around, low set handlebar, bar-end mirrors, USD front forks and more.
    It is an absolute style statement and gets a Muscle Bike look. The main highlight continues to be its powertrain. Which is a 125cc V-Twin engine with a 60-degree cylinder angle. This engine gets a 3V/cylinder SOHC head and is a liquid-cooled unit. It is capable of generating 14 bhp of peak power and is Euro-5+ emission compliant.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    The power is sent to rear wheels via a belt drive. Top-speed is 100 km/h on this motorcycle. Hyosung Aquila GV125 X weighs 172 kg and the company promises 2.8L / 100 km fuel efficiency rating, which turns out to be around 35.7 km/l. This is good for around 500 km tank range. More

  • 163 Shares48 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Tata Harrier EV Interiors Revealed Ahead Of Launch – What All Is New?

    Tata Harrier EV Interiors RevealedAhead of its official launch, Tata Motors recently showcased Harrier EV at their Pune manufacturing facility. There were a couple of stunts demonstrated as well, performed by trained personnel. In that teaser video, Tata has also showcased bits and pieces of Harrier EV’s interiors, lending us an idea of what to expect from their upcoming flagship electric SUV.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors Revealed
    In their latest teaser, Tata Motors revealed production spec version of Harrier EV to the world after its global premier at Auto Expo 2025. At their Pune facility, the company even demonstrated Harrier EV’s agility and performance in a slew of co-ordinated stunts. When launched, Tata Harrier EV will rival Mahindra’s XEV 9e.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors
    For the first time, we can see a glimpse of Tata Harrier EV production version’s interiors as seen in their latest teaser. For starters, we would say that Harrier EV stays very close to, if not, identical to Harrier ICE’s interiors. That’s because Harrier EV borrows almost every single element we have seen with Harrier ICE.
    It gets the same 12.3-inch free-standing infotainment screen which is capable of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with the same 10.25-inch TFT instrument cluster which boasts advanced functions including full-screen map view. Along with these, Harrier EV also gets the same centre console as Harrier ICE.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors
    We can see the same stylish and chunky gear selector and a rotary dial to control the new and improved Terrain Modes. Steering wheel is also the same 4-spoke unit with an illuminated Tata logo and steering mounted controls. Touch and toggle type panel for dual-zone climate control, electronic parking brake and dual pane sunroof are also the same.
    What are the changes?
    Where we can expect changes are in EV specific graphics running on Harrier EV’s infotainment and instrument screens. Harrier EV’s cabin will be much quieter owing to its electric powertrain and occupants inside Harrier EV will be more comfortable as it gets independent suspension at the rear, which Harrier ICE miss out on.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors
    Exterior design stays more or less the same as Harrier ICE, a strategy which Tata has used on all of its EVs. Powertrain-wise, there are no definitive numbers disclosed by the company. However, the company has promised a range of 500+ km on a single charge and 500 Nm of peak torque from Harrier EV dual motor AWD version. More

  • 175 Shares48 Views

    in Bike

    Simple Energy Launches OneS Electric Scooter – 181 Km Range at Rs 1.39 Lakh

    Simple OneS Electric ScooterSimple Energy has expanded its electric two-wheeler lineup with the launch of the Simple OneS, a high-performance electric scooter priced at Rs 1,39,999 (ex-showroom). Positioned as the quickest and longest-range electric scooter in its price segment, the Simple OneS comes with an IDC-certified range of 181 km and a top speed of 105 km/h.
    Performance and Features
    Equipped with an 8.5kW PMSM motor and a 3.7 kWh fixed battery, the Simple OneS offers a rapid 0-40 km/h acceleration in just 2.55 seconds in Sonic mode. The scooter features four riding modes—Eco, Ride, Dash, and Sonic—to suit different riding conditions.
    Simple OneS Electric Scooter
    The OneS retains the sporty aesthetics of its predecessor while introducing significant upgrades. The 35-liter under-seat storage, 770 mm seat height, and four colour options—Brazen Black, Grace White, Azure Blue, and Namma Red—enhance its practicality and appeal.
    Technology and Connectivity
    The 7-inch touchscreen dashboard supports 5G e-SIM, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, offering turn-by-turn navigation, app integration, and over-the-air updates. Additional safety and convenience features include:
    Simple OneS Electric Scooter
    – Find My Vehicle– Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)– Regenerative and rapid braking systems– Park Assist with forward and reverse movement
    Simple One vs OneS Electric Scooter
    Expansion Plans & Strategic Focus
    With the launch of Simple OneS, the company will discontinue the Simple Dot One, streamlining its lineup to focus on advanced EV technology. Simple Energy now offers two models — Simple One Gen 1.5 and Simple OneS. As part of its expansion strategy, the brand aims to establish 150 new retail stores and 200 service centers across 23 states by FY 2026. Currently, Simple OneS is available at 15 dealerships in Bangalore, Goa, Pune, Vijayawada, Hyderabad, Vizag, and Kochi.
    Speaking on the launch, Suhas Rajkumar, Founder & CEO, Simple Energy, said, “At Simple Energy, we believe that innovation is a journey, not a destination. And hence, we are absolutely elated to launch Simple OneS that gives you the best possible range under this price segment. Our focus has always been on pushing the boundaries of technology to create smarter solutions, and the scooter is a testament to that. With enhanced features and improved affordability, we are making premium EV technology within reach for more riders, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. As we move forward, our commitment remains the same— to drive the future of electric mobility and redefine the way India rides.”
    Simple One Gen 1.5 – India’s Longest-Range Electric Scooter
    In February 2025, Simple Energy introduced Gen 1.5 of the Simple One, offering an extended 248 km IDC range, making it India’s longest-range electric scooter. With the launch of Simple OneS, Simple Energy continues its mission of delivering high-performance, smart, and sustainable mobility solutions to Indian customers. More

  • 175 Shares56 Views

    in Bike

    KTM 390 Duke Gets Cruise Control, New Ebony Black Colour – No Price Hike

    KTM 390 Duke
    KTM has introduced significant updates to its flagship streetfighter, the KTM 390 Duke, now equipped with cruise control as standard. Additionally, a new Ebony Black colourway joins the existing Electronic Orange and Atlantic Blue options. These upgrades come at no additional cost, with the bike continuing at an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.95 lakh (Delhi).
    KTM 390 Duke – Now With Cruise Control
    The KTM 390 Duke now features cruise control, a first in its segment, aimed at enhancing long-distance riding comfort. The feature allows riders to maintain a set cruising speed without throttle input, helping to reduce fatigue during highway rides. Activated via the left handlebar switches and monitored through the TFT display, the system integrates ABS hardware and engine management for precise speed regulation.
    KTM 390 Duke
    New Ebony Black Colour Option
    The 2025 KTM 390 Duke now offers a striking Ebony Black colourway, adding a stealthy, premium appeal to the already aggressive styling. It joins the Electronic Orange and Atlantic Blue variants, providing more choices for enthusiasts.
    Unchanged Price, High-Performance Package
    Despite these upgrades, KTM has kept the ex-showroom price unchanged at Rs 2.95 lakh, ensuring high-performance motorcycling remains accessible. The Gen-3 KTM 390 Duke is powered by a 399cc, liquid-cooled, LC4c engine, producing 46 PS and 39 Nm of torque. Known as the “Corner Rocket,” it continues to offer sharp handling, advanced electronics, and segment-first features for an unmatched riding experience.
    KTM 390 Duke
    Key Features of the KTM 390 Duke
    – Fully adjustable suspension– Compression & Rebound damping at the front– Rebound damping & pre-load adjust at the rear– Ride modes – Street & Rain with Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC)– 3D IMU-enabled Cornering Traction Control– Launch Control & Quickshifter+– Cornering ABS & Supermoto ABS– Track Screen – Displays racing telemetry data
    With these updates, the KTM 390 Duke strengthens its position as one of the most advanced and accessible high-performance motorcycles in its class. More

  • 125 Shares42 Views

    in Bike

    Hero Xoom 125 First Ride Review – Sporty and Comfy!

    Hero Xoom 125 First Ride ReviewThere are scooters and then there are sporty premium 125cc scooters. Hero MotoCorp is targeting the latter with Xoom 125, which was launched at Auto Expo 2025. Media drive event was held recently in Delhi. We experienced the scooter in Delhi across multiple road conditions and here is what we think about Hero’s new sporty 125cc scooter.
    Hero Xoom 125 First Ride Review
    At the media drive event held in New Delhi, Hero MotoCorp provided Rushlane a Xoom 125 ZX trim in Matte Storme Grey shade. With the Xoom 125, Hero MotoCorp aims to carve out a significant chunk of 125cc scooter segment sales, which currently accounts for around half of total scooter sales.
    Hero Xoom 125
    Xoom 125 is the middle child in company’s Xoom family of sporty scooters, slotted above Xoom 110 and below Xoom 160. Xoom 125 comes off as the most complete package in the 125cc segment and has great potential to make a big splash in this segment. All this while achieving price competitiveness over every single one of its rivals.
    Speaking of pricing, Hero has priced Xoom 125 from Rs 86,900 for VX trim and Rs 92,900 for ZX trim. VX trim is offered in two colours – Metallic Turbo Blue and Matte Storm Grey. ZX trim adds two more colours to the palette – Inferno Red and Matte Neon Lime. Personally, I think Matte Neon Lime looks the sportiest and is an eye candy.
    Hero Xoom 125
    Design & Appearance
    When we’re talking about Hero Xoom 125, we have to start from design. This is easily on of the best looking 125cc scooters on sale in India. The company has based Xoom 125 design on other Xoom scooters in the family, inspired by the flight of a Falcon. Company’s presentations suggest Xoom 125 is aimed at individuals who has achieved something big and want to showcase their lifestyle affiliations.
    Hero Xoom 125
    Xoom 125 fits into this projection with its Falcon inspired sharp and edgy design. At the front, we get a handsome fascia with Falcon LED DRL signature. This is the first scooter in this segment to come equipped with LED projector headlights. Handlebar cowl gets sequential LED turn indicators, which is first-in-segment, lending a premium appeal.
    Hero Xoom 125
    These swipe-style LED turn indicators are present at the back too. Even though we quite liked them, these can easily go unnoticed to untrained eyes as the surface area is quite small. LED tail lights are LEDs too and are of split type. Split grab rails look chunky and lend a muscular appeal. Rear tyre is 120-section in width, which is widest in segment and fills the wheel arches quite nicely.
    Hero Xoom 125 Wheels
    Side profile is probably the best angle of Xoom 125. Especially its exhaust side where the dual tone machining for alloy wheels is also visible. Also, Xoom 125 has a single sided mono-shock suspension at the rear, which is at the left, making its exhaust side very photogenic. I just wished front disc brake was also at the exhaust side.
    Hero Xoom 125 External Fuel Filler Cap With Buzzer
    Features & Functionalities
    Where functionalities are concerned, Xoom 125 is a sorted product. It has a flat floor board for practicality, unlike its big brother Xoom 160. The under-seat storage is around 17L and it gets an LED light for illumination on ZX trim, which is a nice touch. I couldn’t fit my beefy XL sized full face helmet here, but Hero did demonstrate a smaller full face helmet and it fits just fine.
    Hero Xoom 125 LED Projector Headlight
    Considering Xoom 125 is a city scooter, riders are likely to be using lighter and smaller helmets anyways. There are two storage options at the front behind front apron for practicality and convenience. Left side storage space has a USB Type-A port which is not exactly fixed. Floor board is flat and is just accommodating enough for my large feet wearing UK 10 size boots.
    Hero Xoom 125 Utility
    Seat is a single piece and is a stepped unit. The rear step ensures pillion is not very knees up, but it creates a certain discomfort for taller riders like myself (182 cm tall) as I prefer to sit slightly behind the average rider’s spot. That’s because my knees would touch the handlebar when I’m executing lock to lock turns.
    Hero Xoom 125 Boot Space
    The switchgear is new and Hero is giving an illuminated engine start button. Above it is the i3S switch and left switchgear include horn, turn indicators and headlight controls. There’s no hazard light function on this scooter either, which is perfectly fine for this segment. Hero has implemented a buzzer into its external fuel filler cap that beeps at the rider if they forget to leave filler cap open and start ignition or engine, which is a welcome safety feature.
    Hero Xoom 125 Features
    The instrument cluster on Xoom 125 is well executed. It is the same LCD cluster with White backlight, which stays legible even under peak sunlight. We have seen this unit do duty in other Hero MotoCorp family products. This cluster also has Bluetooth connectivity and gets turn-by-turn navigation as well, which some rivals still miss out on, in the sporty 125cc scooter segment.
    Hero Xoom 125 Ride & Dynamics
    Dynamics and Performance
    Hero Xoom 125 is powered by the same 124.6cc single cylinder air cooled engine which also powers Destini 125, which we experienced at the media drive in Goa last year. Xoom 125 gets a more powerful tune as it generates 9.8 bhp of peak power and 10.4 Nm of peak torque. In contrast, Destini 125 topped out at 9 bhp and 10.4 Nm. This engine also gets Hero MotoCorp’s proprietary i3S start/stop feature to increase fuel efficiency.
    Hero Xoom 125 Engine
    As per an internal testing, Hero MotoCorp claims that Xoom 125 is the fastest 125cc scooter on sale in India. The company is promising a 0-60 km/h sprint in 7.6 seconds as well. In real life conditions, Xoom 125 feels peppy and accelerates with quite a gust. We couldn’t find longer stretches of road in the heart of Delhi city to test the max ceiling of performance. It could probably teach triple digit speeds on the highway.
    Hero Xoom 125 Ride & Dynamics
    However, the performance is not as spritely as we would have hoped. That’s because Hero Xoom 125 weighs up to 121 kg. For context, some of its rivals weigh under 100 kg too. Xoom 125 does not feel heavy or cumbersome while riding or even when moving around, say, in a parking lot. However, it could have been lighter. One positive about this weight is that it makes the scooter feel really planted on the road and makes suspension act more supple. The 120-section rear tyre is also a contributor to this secure and dynamic ride.
    Hero Xoom 125 Lighting
    Some Reservations & Conclusion
    While Hero Xoom 125 gets everything one might need and more, there are a few elements that a prospective rider might want, to make their ownership experience even more special. Primary among these is the keyless function which is gaining more popularity and acceptance in the premium scooter segment. Tall riders would have liked a flat seat option for more comfort, at least as an accessory.
    Hero Xoom 125 External Switchgear
    The main gripe is that we wished Hero MotoCorp somehow shelved around 10 kgs off Xoom 125, which would have extracted even more performance from this already potent platform. Other than that, Xoom 125 packs everything a sporty premium 125cc scooter should offer and more, while undercutting every single one of its rivals. It looks good and the 14-inch wheels lend it excellent dynamics. Comparing Apples to Apples, only the Aprilia SR 125 is Xoom 125’s equivalent rival and it costs Rs 38,000 more. More