Hero Xtreme 250R

This is the new Hero Xtreme 250R, the first motorcycle based on Hero’s new 250cc platform. It was launched at Bharat Mobility Expo in January and competes against the likes of the Bajaj Pulsar N250 and the Suzuki Gixxer 250. If you overlook the steep Rs. 47,000 price difference, the Xtreme also locks horns with the KTM 250 Duke in terms of engine specifications and body style.

Hero says the Xtreme 250R is the fastest motorcycle in its class and the on-paper specifications undoubtedly look impressive. However, as we know, the proof of the pudding is in eating it. Hence, to verify the credibility of Hero’s claims, we briefly rode the Xtreme 250R on some straight highways and twisty hill roads of Udaipur. Here’s how it went.

The Xtreme 250R is visually a quintessential streetfighter. The petite headlamp is placed quite low, fuel tank is bulbous and accompanied by sharp extensions, and the svelte tail section is free of any fender or license plate, which lends it a clean yet sharp look. While it might attract polarising opinions for its overly flamboyant design, the attention of onlookers is guaranteed. Moreover, it’s decent in terms of overall build quality but I felt the finishing of the paint and the quality of the plastic for switches could’ve been better.

The motorcycle’s 250cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC engine uses the Karizma’s 210cc unit as its base but boasts a host of internal changes and a longer stroke, with the same bore size. As a result, it makes more power and torque output at 29.5bhp and 25Nm, respectively. Transmission duties are handled by a six-speed gearbox along with an assist and slipper clutch.

Based on a steel trellis frame, it rides on 17-inch wheels that are shod with MRF tyres. It is suspended by USD front forks and a preload-adjustable monoshock. The kerb weight stands at 167.7kg, fuel tank capacity is 11.5 litres, ground clearance is 167mm, and the seat height is an accessible 806mm.

Feature-wise, it incorporates auto-illumination LED headlamp and tail lamp, LED turn indicators, and hazard lamps. The instrumentation setup comprises an LCD console with an E-Sim and Bluetooth connectivity for accessing turn-by-turn navigation. The console also packs lap and drag race timers. The dual-channel ABS system works in two modes, with the Track mode allowing riders to turn off ABS for the rear wheel.

The Xtreme 250R is an engaging and sporty motorcycle to ride. The engine, with its high-strung peaky nature, delivers a good amount of torque from mid-range to top-end. Stay anywhere above 5,000rpm and the motorcycle charges ahead with much vigour. The acceleration feels strong almost till its redline of close to 10,000rpm. This brings along some compromise in terms of tractability and the engine stutters under 50kmph in sixth gear. However, the need to make constant gear changes isn’t really bothersome because of the slick gearbox and the light clutch.

The engine is happy to sit at 110 or 120kmph without much strain and overtakes can be executed swiftly with just the drop of a gear. This is where the engine sounds raspy and vibrations are well contained. Touring on this motorcycle should be a stress-free experience, barring the lack of wind protection which will certainly induce some fatigue.

What else needs to be emphasised is its handling dynamics. Be it filtering your way through traffic or dropping it into corners, the motorcycle is eager and willing to oblige. It changes directions with minimal inputs and feels composed while carving your desired line. What can make the handling even better are grippier tyres. The stock MRFs do a decent job of sticking on the tarmac but the grip feels a bit inadequate while leaning over into tight corners. That’s an easy fix though.

While the suspension setup feels slightly firm to aid good handling, it does an impressive job of soaking up undulations. Minor rough patches are flattened out quite well while the nastier stuff demands you to be a bit cautious, but the setup doesn't bottom out easily. The front disc brake, meanwhile, could do with a stronger bite. It does not lack stopping power but the bite comes in a progressive manner. That is beneficial for new riders but the more skilled and faster ones will desire a more aggressive bite.

The seating position is comfortable with the slightly rear-set footpegs and a wide handlebar that is easy to reach. Your upper body needs to crouch a bit which adds to the sporty riding experience. Moreover, with my 5’11’’ frame, the low 806mm seat allows me to flat foot on both sides and the seat has enough room to accommodate even larger sized individuals.

The new Hero Xtreme 250R is an apt motorcycle for those who want a sporty street bike but don’t want to compromise on comfort and practicality. The engine packs a good amount of punch, especially beyond 5,000rpm, and comfortably cruises at speeds over 100kmph whatsoever. Taking on corners is a delightful affair with its nimble yet composed handling dynamics. Plus, the suspension setup strikes a great balance between handling and comfort and tackles undulations with reasonable ease.

What could be better is the stopping power from the front brake, which isn’t outright poor but a stronger bite will certainly inspire more confidence. Furthermore, in an age when brands are offering a TFT console on small 125cc bikes, Xtreme 250R’s LCD console is a bit of a downer. That said, if you can overlook these niggles, the new Xtreme 250R is undoubtedly an enjoyable yet sensible motorcycle.

Photography by Kapil Angane