A test mule of Hero Xtreme 125R has been spotted and there are many giveaways that led us to think that this is the Hero’s answer to the likes of TVS Raider. Telescopic forks up front and a monoshock suspension system were doing duties on the test bike and given that Xtreme 160R features an inverted forks arrangement, this experimental model should be of reduced capacity. Further contrary to the disc brake arrangement at both ends in 160R, the model spotted testing featured a drum brake arrangement at the rear.
What is particularly apparent in the pilot model was the aggressive and edgy styling of the bike. However, it is expected to become more coherent as the test model will approach the production stage. The headline and indicators unit should feature the LED lighting element and its console is likely to be made up of LCD. On the feature front, it should come with a digital instrument cluster and to rival the TVS, Hero might equip the bike with Bluetooth connectivity as well.
As far as the pricing is concerned, this 125cc Hero is likely to be priced below TVS Raider which is retailed in the market at starting price of Rs 93,719 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Along with Raider, the upcoming Hero Xtreme 125R will compete against the likes of Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 and Honda SP 125 among others. It will be interesting to witness how prospective buyers will react to the smaller 125R and to what extent the bike will able to strike a chord with target customers. In addition to this bike, Honda is readying a slew of models in the range of 200-400 cc and is likely to release them in the market one after the other.
