A two-decade old icon from the world of motorcycles has made a much-awaited comeback in the market. The Hero Honda Karizma was a much sought after motorcycle in the beginning of this century, and one of the few options in the premium segment. Now times have changed, Hero is without Honda and the market is flooded with options. How the Karizma XMR will now be received in the market will be interesting to see.
Design
As iconic as the Karizma itself in its previous iteration was its design. The XMR retains that with a look that makes it stand out. Hero calls it an Aero-Layered design which includes the full fairing as well as floating panels which according to the brand help in agile handling and deflecting the heat feeling on all the rider interfaces. The bike also gets a first-in-segment adjustable windshield that can go 30mm up and down at a press of a button.
The bike gets LED projector headlamp with integrated LED DRLs along with Signature H shaped LED tail lights, backlit switchgear and the hazard Switch. There’s an inverted display LCD speedometer which comes with 39 different functionalities such as smart phone connectivity for incoming call/SMS alerts, first-in-segment turn-by-turn navigation, vehicle battery status, range, gear position indicator and shift advisory, ambient light sensor, gear shift & low fuel indicator and trip meter.
Accessories such as anti-glare rear view mirror, hugger fender, mobile holder, magnetic tank bag and thigh pads are also available with the motorcycle. Iconic Yellow, Turbo Red and Matte Phantom Black are three colour options here.
Dynamics
Hero claims the new Karizma XMR is the most powerful motorcycle in its class and produces the highest torque. The 210cc liquid cooled DOHC engine makes 25.5 PS @ 9250 rpm and maximum torque of 20.4 Nm @ 7250 rpm. The motorcycle accelerates from 0-60 in just 3.8 seconds. The new engine now has an increased oil replacement limit of 12,000 kms. The 6-speed gearbox paired with Slip and Assist clutch system reduces skidding & rear wheel locking during quick downshifts.
Hero says the geometry of the chassis is designed integrating 50:50 weight distribution to offer maximum stability at high speed and unparalleled precision on twisty roads. This optimization also helps in nimble and effortless ride experience even in everyday city riding. The front suspension gets 37mm dia pinch bolted forks while the rear suspension has a 6-step preload adjustable gas charged monoshock which promises improved ride quality.
An all new and first ever Steel tubular trellis frame in the Karizma XMR is tuned for superior handling and performance, according to Hero Motocorp. In sync with the front and rear suspension, this chassis provides a balance between comfort and body control and is well optimized for sporty yet comfortable ride and handling.
The brand is also claiming best-in-class rider legroom and ample pillion seat space on the bike which allows for both aggressive and relaxed riding stance. The lightweight aluminum alloy clip-on handlebars also help in getting optimal riding stance.
The 17-inch wheels on the XMR are the lightest in segment. You get 300mm petal disc on the front and rear gets a 230mm petal disc brake. A dual channel ABS is the first for the brand.
Prices
Hero Karizma XMR has been launched at an introductory price of Rs 1.72 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The motorcycle can be booked with a booking amount of Rs. 3,000.