Hero Xoom 110: In the bustling streets of India’s metropolitan cities and the winding roads of its rural landscapes, a new player has emerged to challenge the status quo of the 110cc scooter market. The Hero Xoom 110, launched by Hero MotoCorp, is not just another entry in the crowded two-wheeler segment; it’s a bold statement of innovation, style, and performance that’s turning heads and changing perceptions.
A Fresh Face in a Familiar Crowd
The 110cc scooter segment in India has long been dominated by familiar names, with models that have become household staples. However, the Hero Xoom 110 enters the fray with a design language that speaks to a new generation of riders. Its edgy, sharp lines and aggressive styling set it apart from the more conservative designs that have long been the norm in this category.
At first glance, the Xoom 110 catches the eye with its distinctive H-shaped LED DRL (Daytime Running Light) and a similarly striking LED taillight design. These aren’t just aesthetic choices; they contribute to better visibility and safety on the road. The scooter’s commanding presence is further enhanced by its 12-inch wheels, which not only look good but also promise better stability and handling.
Performance That Punches Above Its Weight
Under the sleek exterior lies a heart that beats with surprising vigor. The Hero Xoom 110 is powered by a 110.9cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that churns out 8.15 PS of power at 7250 rpm and 8.7 Nm of torque at 5750 rpm. These numbers might seem modest on paper, but on the road, they translate to a peppy performance that’s turning heads in the industry.
In real-world testing, the Xoom 110 has shown acceleration capabilities that rival and even surpass some 125cc scooters. This unexpected punch gives riders the confidence to navigate through city traffic with ease and even tackle the occasional highway stretch without feeling underpowered.
Efficiency Meets Performance
One might expect that such spirited performance would come at the cost of fuel efficiency, but the Hero Xoom 110 defies expectations once again. In city conditions, where most of these scooters spend their lives, the Xoom 110 has demonstrated an impressive fuel efficiency of 63.86 kmpl. Even on the highway, where higher speeds typically lead to increased fuel consumption, it manages a respectable 50.65 kmpl.
This balance of performance and efficiency is achieved in part thanks to Hero’s i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology, which is available in the mid and higher variants. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the scooter is stationary, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it seamlessly when the rider is ready to move. It’s a small but significant feature that contributes to both fuel savings and reduced emissions in urban environments.
Handling and Ride Quality: A Cut Above
At 109 kg, the Hero Xoom 110 isn’t the lightest scooter in its class, but clever engineering has ensured that this weight is distributed low in the chassis. Coupled with the aforementioned 12-inch wheels and a fat 100-section rear tire, the Xoom offers a riding experience that’s both stable and agile.
Riders have reported that the Xoom 110 feels particularly at home when maneuvering through tight city traffic or taking on twisty roads. The suspension setup, while on the firmer side, strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness. It handles most road imperfections with aplomb, only transmitting the harshest of bumps to the rider.
The braking system deserves special mention. With a 130mm drum brake setup on both wheels (with an option for a front disc in higher variants), the Xoom 110 provides strong and progressive braking performance. This characteristic is particularly appreciated by newer riders, as it allows for better modulation and builds confidence in various riding conditions.
Features and Technology: A Mixed Bag
In the features department, the Hero Xoom 110 presents a mix of hits and misses. On the plus side, it offers Bluetooth connectivity with call and SMS alerts through its LCD instrument console, a feature that’s increasingly becoming a must-have for tech-savvy riders.
However, the execution of some features leaves room for improvement. The cornering lights, while an innovative addition for a scooter in this segment, are positioned quite low and lack the brightness to make a significant impact. The absence of turn-by-turn navigation in the Bluetooth-connected system is a missed opportunity, especially given the target audience’s likely preference for such a feature.
Storage solutions on the Xoom 110 are adequate but could be better thought out. The apron-mounted cubby holes, while useful, are open to the elements, which might lead to items falling out over bumpy roads. The under-seat storage is generous enough for daily use, but the positioning of the USB charging port under the central spine could have been more convenient.
Market Position and Value Proposition
Priced starting at Rs 71,484 (ex-showroom Delhi), the Hero Xoom 110 positions itself competitively in the market. It’s more affordable than some established players like the TVS Jupiter (starting at Rs 73,340) while offering a more premium feel and better performance than some cheaper alternatives.
This pricing strategy, combined with its standout design and performance characteristics, makes the Xoom 110 an attractive proposition for young urban riders looking for a scooter that reflects their personality and meets their daily commuting needs without breaking the bank.
The Road Ahead
As Hero MotoCorp continues to gather feedback and refine the Xoom 110, there’s potential for this model to evolve into an even more compelling package. The foundations are strong, with class-leading performance and efficiency already in place. If future iterations can address the minor quibbles with feature implementation and perhaps introduce more color options to complement its sporty design, the Xoom 110 could well become a benchmark in its segment.
Conclusion: A Bold Step Forward
The Hero Xoom 110 represents more than just a new model in Hero MotoCorp’s lineup; it’s a statement of intent. In a market segment that has often prioritized practicality over personality, the Xoom 110 dares to be different. It offers a blend of style, performance, and efficiency that challenges the established norms of the 110cc scooter category.
While it may not be perfect, the Xoom 110 succeeds in its primary mission: to offer young, style-conscious riders a scooter that stands out from the crowd without compromising on the practical aspects that are crucial for daily use. As Hero continues to refine and evolve this platform, the Xoom 110 has the potential to not just capture market share, but to redefine what riders expect from a 110cc scooter.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian two-wheelers, the Hero Xoom 110 is not just a participant; it’s a trendsetter, promising to shape the future of urban mobility with its unique blend of style, substance, and affordability. As it zooms ahead, both literally and figuratively, in the Indian market, it’s clear that the 110cc scooter segment will never be the same again.