Hero Xtreme first ride

• Published On: 22 March 2017
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Hero MotoCorp’s feature-packed Xtreme is the spiritual successor to the venerable CBZ.

Back in 1999, when Hero was making motorcycles with Honda, the companies released a motorcycle called the Hero Honda CBZ, later rebadged the Hero Honda CBZ Xtreme with some striking updates. The CBZ was one of the first true performance-oriented 150cc bike that hit Indian roads. Since then, Hero has split with Honda and the company dropped the CBZ name and rechristened the new version of the bike as the Xtreme. It has many styling upgrades as well as a new engine.

On the outside
The bike’s stance is tall and riding posture upright. It has completely reworked body panels, and is slimmer and leaner than the previous model. In front, the dual tone mudguard is a well carved out stylish unit and the headlamp sits high above the bike mudguard, equipped with smartly designed LED parking lights, enveloped in a minimal dual tone cowl and tinted visor. The blue backlit instruments panel displays a speedometer, odometer, tachometer, a fuel-gauge, dual trip meters, and it even has a clock. Another useful addition is the fact that riders can’t ride with the bike’s side-stand down, as the motorcycle turns itself off when it isn’t raised up. The keys come with a sensor chip that is mated to a particular bike, so you can’t use any other keys on this bike. The key hole is marked by a blue LED glow that blinks for a day after the bike was last ridden.

The familiar switches, stylish new clip-on handlebars and the comfortable grips will ensure you’re never too uncomfortable. The dual-tone body coloured rear view mirrors are clear and offer good visibility. The bike even has a useful mobile charging point under the seat. The rear section is reworked too with a new contemporary-looking LED taillight. A minimal tyre hugger and hollowed out 5-spoke rims provide some added style.

Power torque
The bike is powered by a 4-stroke, 149.2cc carburetted and air-cooled engine that makes 14.2bhp generated at 8,500rpm, with peak torque of 1.3kgm coming in at 6,500rpm. The bike continues to come with a five-speed gearbox, that is smooth yet precise. The engine feels smooth with good low-end power, revs building quickly. The bike feels at home even when you’re at speeds of up to 80kph.

From the saddle
The upright riding position with a well-padded saddle and nicely positioned footrests aid comfort. The motorcycle handles well, it’s great on a straight line and even corners confidently. The Xtreme brakes work well, and it comes with an optional rear disc as well. The tyres on this bike offer more than sufficient grip in city riding conditions.

Is it worth the money?
Hero’s successor to the CBZ is a well-designed, handsome motorcycle loaded with helpful features. With a reliable engine, great design and sporty appeal, this Hero is definitely great value for money.