Hero Xoom 125 review: A stylized Destini with bit more oomph?

The 125cc segment is arguably the most desirable segment of scooters in India right now. And there’s some convenience about scooters that even motorcycles can’t match. Off late, most manufacturers have tapped into the 125cc segment that offers the best of both worlds — economy and usable performance.

So many new 125cc scooters have been launched in the past decade that there are now two dedicated sub-segments in this category: commuter and sporty. The former comprises models which have relatively simple design and performance like TVS Jupiter 125, Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access, and Hero Destini 125. 

The other 125cc sub-segment includes models which have slightly sporty intent in their design as well as performance like TVS Ntorq, Honda Dio 125, and Suzuki Burgman Street. And now the latest addition to this list is the Xoom 125, Hero MotoCorp first official entrant in the sporty 125cc scooter segment. So does the new Hero Xoom 125 add more value to this segment? Does it have anything unique to offer? Well, we got an opportunity to test ride the scooter briefly, here’s our analysis on the same.

Hero Xoom 125 review: Looks sharp but average build

Hero gets the first thing right, which is how the Xoom 125 looks — sporty yet not intimidating. The company has made a smart choice of not going overboard with design even though it says design is heavily inspired by a falcon, especially the front facia. The apron gets a twin LED headlamp setup with integrated LED DRLs giving it a sharp look.

The multi-layered body panels on the front and side profile further accentuate the sporty flair. At the rear, the twin LED taillamp setup distinguishes the Xoom 125 from the commuter scooters in this segment. Adding more appeal to the overall design are some snazzy colour schemes called Matte Storm Grey, Inferno Red, Metallic Turbo Blue, and Matte Neon Lime.

Unfortunately, the attractive design is backed by a build quality that can be termed as average at best. Flimsy body panels all around with inconsistent gaps mar the experience in an otherwise good-looking scooter. The quality of plastics on the handlebar and switchgear are decent enough but nothing to rave about.

Hero Xoom 125 review: Well equipped

The Xoom 125 keeps up with competition in this segment as far as features are concerned, packing a negative LCD instrument cluster that comes with Bluetooth connectivity for call and text alerts, and turn-by-turn navigation. However, we weren’t able to test these features in our test model. The instrument panel too was not too prominently legible under direct sunlight.

Other amenities on offer include a USB charging port inside the front glovebox, a boot lamp, LED headlamps and taillamps, external fuel-lid opener, Hero’s i3S start/stop technology, and a first-in-segment sequential LED turn indicators. There’s also sufficient underseat storage (17 litres) which is good enough to house a half face helmet or a small full crash helmet.

Hero Xoom 125 review: Ride & Handling

Hopping onto the Hero Xoom 125, the experience felt very similar to the rest of  the125cc scooters. The suspension has been damped really well to absorb all the regular-sized potholes and broken tarmacs with ease. The overall suspension is set up on the softer side that results in a plush and comfortable riding experience. Yes, you are tossed up from your seat more often than not when you encounter a steep bump or larger than average-sized pothole but that’s a trade off when one wants a comfortable ride quality.

Another significant attribute are the segment-leading 14-inch alloy wheels, the largest in this category. This ensures a better straight line stability without having to worry about maneuvering the scooter in bumper-to-bumper traffic. The seat is accessible with more than ample real estate to accommodate a rider and a pillion with ease and comfort. However, the compact dimensions of the scooter means the long seat leaves very little room for the rider’s feet on the footboard, which can be a little inconvenient for taller riders.

Hero Xoom 125 review: Smooth Performance

During our brief stint with the Hero Xoom 125 mostly around the urban jungle of New Delhi, we didn’t experience any lack of power as such. The 125cc motor is free of any unnecessary clatter for most parts, offering a smooth power delivery. However, when you pull the throttle hard, you don’t feel the surge which you associate with a sporty 125cc scooter. This is slightly disappointing, given the performance will be a crucial factor distinguishing the sporty Xoom 125 from the Destini 125.

Further, riding for around 50 km, the Hero Xoom 125 returned an approximate indicated fuel efficiency of 40-45 kmpl.

Hero Xoom 125 review: Price & Verdict

Hero MotoCorp is offering the Xoom 125 in two variants: VX and ZX, priced at Rs 86,900 and Rs 96,900, respectively. If you compare the Xoom 125 with its brethren— Desitini 125 — which is priced between Rs 80,463 and Rs 90,313 (all prices ex-showroom), the latter offers much better value for money. This comes from the fact there is no real difference in performance levels of the two scooters in the rear world.

Further, the average build quality of the Xoom 125 doesn’t help its case either. Hero says that the Xoom series of scooters is targeted at a younger generation of riders who wish to stand apart from the crowd. This the Xoom 125 is able to pull off with its attractive design. It’s comfortable for most city commutes, and offers enough features, making it a very convenient choice. It’ll be interesting to see if Hero is able to convince buyers to go for the Xoom 125 which could have done wonders with a slightly better packaging.