New Delhi
Hero Karizma XMR Review
Reviews by Team Drivio | 2 Sep 2023
The Hero Karizma XMR 210 looks better than what any Hero bike ever has
- The Hero Karizma packs a liquid-cooled engine, something no Hero bike has ever had
- Even the trellis frame and slipper clutch are things never seen on a Hero bike before
- At Rs 1,72,900, Hero has priced the Karizma at a very competitive level
The iconic Hero Karizma has finally made a comeback and this one’s called the Karizma XMR, packing a 210cc engine. Now while it sounds thoroughly modern on paper, is it so in the real world? And more importantly, does it have the cred to go up against its modern rivals like the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and the KTM RC 200? We had a chance to briefly ride the bike and here’s what we thought:
Hero Karizma XMR: Design & Features
The Hero Karizma XMR, a new iteration of the iconic Karizma, introduces notable changes that revamp its appeal. Shifting from the bikini fairing of its predecessor, the new XMR features an alluring fully-faired design.
This design evolution is accentuated by the incorporation of dual projector LED headlamps within the full fairing. The faired look is balanced by the inclusion of raised handlebars, preserving its identity as a sport-tourer. The XMR's aesthetic stance aligns it more with the Bajaj Pulsar RS200's genre rather than the KTM RC 200's aggressive super sport style.
The motorcycle comes equipped with an LCD instrument console integrated with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation capabilities. Additionally, the switchgear exudes a premium appearance while an illuminated touch enhances its aesthetic appeal. The headlight setup boasts dual LED projector headlights accompanied by H-shaped LED DRLs, a combination that enhances both visibility and aesthetics.
Hero Karizma XMR: Engine
| Specifications | Hero Karizma XMR 210 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 210cc liquid-cooled engine |
| Maximum power | 25.5PS |
| Maximum torque | 20.4Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
Powering the new flagship motorcycle is a novel 210cc, DOHC, 4-valve liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. This marks a pioneering step for Hero as it's their first liquid-cooled engine.
Delivering an impressive 25.5PS at 9,250rpm and 20.4Nm at 7,250rpm, the XMR outpaces its counterparts, the KTM RC 200 and the Bajaj Pulsar RS200. This power is transmitted through a 6-speed gearbox with the added advantage of a slipper and assist clutch.
Hero Karizma XMR Suspension, Tyres & Brakes
| Specifications | Hero Karizma XMR 210 |
|---|---|
| Front suspension | Telescopic Fork |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock |
| Front tyre | 100/80-17 |
| Rear tyre | 140/70-17 |
| Front brake | Disc Brake |
| Rear brake | Disc Brake |
| ABS | Yes |
The suspension system features a telescopic fork in the front and a gas-charged 6-step preload adjustable monoshock in the rear. However, given the introduction of USD forks in the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V, the absence of this feature on the Karizma XMR is a noteworthy omission.
A distinctive aspect to highlight is the cost-cutting measure adopted by Hero in utilizing a box-section swingarm. This decision raises questions, especially considering that the Xtreme 160R 4V incorporates a USD fork, unlike the XMR.
Hero Karizma XMR: Dimensions
| Dimensions | Hero Karizma XMR |
|---|---|
| Length | 2068mm |
| Height | 1110mm |
| Width | 760mm |
| Wheelbase | 1351mm |
| Seat height | 810mm |
| Ground clearance | 160mm |
| Kerb weight | 163.5kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11-litres |
As the dimensions suggest on paper, the Hero Karizma is a light bike and it feels the same way too. Be it flicking around in the city or cornering out in the Ghats, the bike feels nice and planted. The front suspension though, is tuned for the city and is hence a bit on the softer side, so push the bike hard and it’ll remind you that it’s not really an out and out super sport.
Hero Karizma XMR: Price
| Hero Karizma XMR 210 | Price (Ex-showroom India) |
|---|---|
| Standard | Rs 1,72,900 (introductory) |
The Hero Karizma XMR 210 is currently on sale in one trim only, and that’s the standard one, which retails for Rs 1,72,900, ex-showroom India. In typical Hero fashion, the brand has managed to price the bike rather competitively, undercutting its chief rivals.
The Karizma is hence a fair bit cheaper than the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and the KTM RC 200. In fact, the bike is even cheaper than the Yamaha R15 V4, a bike that packs a whole lot less performance than the Karizma.
Verdict
Hero's strategic choice to venture into the 150-200cc segment rather than the larger 400-500cc segment is attributed to its aim of offering a blend of affordability and exhilarating performance. This decision not only caters to budget-conscious riders but also positions Hero to potentially challenge the dominant player in this segment, the Yamaha R15S.
In sum, the revival of the iconic Karizma through the XMR 210 model ushers in a refreshing chapter. The enthusiasm to experience this revitalized legend is palpable, and the approach taken by Hero in reimagining the Karizma is commendable.
This shift away from superficial updates to embracing a more dynamic and performance-oriented direction bodes well for the brand. Moreover, the prospect of Hero expanding the 210cc liquid-cooled platform holds potential for enhancing other models within its current lineup, such as the XPulse 200 4V.
