The Hero Glamour brand has represented an ideal middle ground between budget commuting and executive styling for over a decade now. While the motorcycle has aged gracefully with minor updates over the years, 2023 sees Hero MotoCorp revamp it with a major facelift. The all-new Hero Glamour 125cc ushers in fresh new colours, styling and a focus on youth appeal while retaining its core DNA. This detailed review explores what it has to offer across pricing, mileage, specifications, comfort and handling.
Launched originally in 2005, the Hero Glamour 125cc enters its third generation in 2023 boasting both cosmetic and mechanical enhancements. Does it still remain competitive against rivals like the Honda Shine and TVS Raider? Let’s find out.
Refreshed Design and Colour Options
The boffins at Hero MotoCorp have gone in for a major overhaul as far as styling goes with the 2023 Glamour 125cc:
- All-new fuel tank design with sharper knee recesses
- Slick side body panels and attended rear section
- Signature LED headlamp flanked by U-shaped DRLs
- Two-piece single seat with ribbed pattern
- 3D Hero badging on fuel tank and side panels
- Rear tyre hugger and wheel rims painted in accent shades
Vibrant new colour options on Hero Glamour refresh
Paint schemes now comprise:
- Sports Red colour with black highlights
- Techno Blue base with blacked-out bits
- Fiery Orange and Black dual-tone theme
- Candy Red singular solid shade
The sharp styling bis blended with signature Hero touches like chrome accents on the exhaust muffler and garnish bezels. Fit & finish levels see substantial improvement over earlier Glamour generations.
Engine Performance and Mileage
The trusty 124.7cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine has been carried over on the 2023 Hero Glamour but updated to comply with stricter emission norms. This fuel-injected motor generates:
- A peak power output of 10.7 BHP @ 7,500 RPM
- Max torque of 10.6 Nm @ 6,000 RPM figures
Paired to a 5-speed constant mesh transmission, the reworked mill focuses more on driveability rather than outright peak performance numbers. What remains its highlight is the mileage – retaining the Glamour’s appeal as an executive yet efficient commuter:
- ARAI certified 70 kmpl economy
- Real-world city usage hovers around 55-60 kmpl as reported by owners
The 13-liter fuel tank allows riding ranges between 650-700 km before needing a top up. Engine refinement remains smooth through the powerband without excessive vibes. A counter balancer weights mass movements from disturbing the slim bodywork.
Chassis and Braking Hardware Updates
Underpinning the motorcycle is a tried-and-tested single downtube frame paired with telescopic forks up front and twin hydraulic coilover shocks at the rear. The competent setup along with 18-inch tyres strikes a composed balance between ride quality and handling.
For 2023, the Glamour 125 sees upgraded braking hardware:
- 240mm disc brake up front as standard
- 130mm rear drum units
- Optional 240mm rear disc
- Integrated braking system
The front 330mm disc offers assured bite for quick city speeds while a large 140mm rear drum is effective at adding support. Dual-channel ABS will be introduced soon for added safety and control during panic braking scenarios.
Features and Comfort Kit
Drawing its youth focus, Hero has equipped the 2023 Glamour 125cc with some nifty features to woo Gen Z buyers:
- Full LED headlamp with signature DRL light guides
- Fully digital backlit instrumentation
- With ECO indicator and service reminder
- Textured single-piece seat for good support
- Signature chrome highlights and 3D fuel tank logos
- Useful front glove box with charging port
Ergonomics involve a sporty yet comfortable riding posture – marginally rear set pegs allow easy angles while keeping weight over the front. Mirror stalks stay clear of handlebars through the entire arc for hassle-free U-turns.
Pricing and Verdict
| Variant | Ex-Showroom | On-Road Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Drum | ₹72,200 | ₹85,000 onwards |
| Disc | ₹79,200 | ₹92,000 onwards |
Though pricing has gone up, additional features like the LED lighting, digital console and updated styling do justify it partially. More importantly, the 2023 Hero Glamour 125 retains its core fuel-efficient powertrain and bulletproof build quality.
For mileage-conscious buyers wanting adequate performance with premium styling, the Glamour 125cc emerges as an enticing executive motorcycle even today under ₹1 lakh. Yes, more powerful 125cc rivals like the Honda SP125 exist but miss out on the extensive dealership reach for trouble-free ownership experience that Hero provides.
Overall, the reinvigorated avatar has fanned the flames keeping the Glamour nameplate going solid. Book a test ride today if you have ₹90,000 budget!
