Hero Splendor iSmart 110 vs Yamaha Saluto

There is a marked difference in the perception of an 110cc motorcycle and a 100cc one in the Indian market. Though the difference is only 10cc, the styling and features change and for the buyers, the 110 is always an upgrade from the run-of-the-mill 100. So, here is the Hero Splendor iSmart 110.  Elder to the Splendor iSmart with 12cc more cubic capacity and almost three quarters of a horsepower more to play with. And there is more. It also has the solid feel of the Splendor (most of us have grown up either on it or looking at one), along with the latest state-of-art technology and features.  

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?