Hero Maestro Edge 125 vs Yamaha Saluto

The Maestro Edge 125 is Hero MotoCorp’s attempt to capture the growing 125cc scooter segment. Yes, the Destini 125 has already been in the market since the last few months, but this one is a bit more premium and is targeted at Indians who are style conscious and want something premium. Hero claims that a lot of focus has gone into making the Maestro Edge 125 an easy going, comfortable and performance scooter. We spent a few hours with it in the grueling New Delhi traffic to uncover some of its traits. 

The Yamaha Saluto is a very perplexing motorcycle. Having established its roots in the more enthusiast-oriented 150cc segment with the FZ-S and the YZF-R15, Yamaha launched the Saluto as a replacement for the ageing SS125 with an eye on the lucrative 125cc commuter segment. On paper, it almost seems like Yamaha has taken a step backwards. The Saluto is more than 2 horsepower down on the motorcycle it replaces and loses out on a lot of features and flair thereby adopting a very civilised and sober design. So what was Yamaha actually thinking when they brought in the Saluto?