Hero MotoCorp is set to enter the adventure scooter market with the upcoming Hero Xoom 160. The scooter was expected to launch in India sometime in April 2024 but has been pushed to another date for reasons unknown. Hero MotoCorp showcased the Xoom 160 Maxi-Scooter along with the Xoom 125R scooter during the EICMA 2023. The Xoom 160 is a larger version of the Xoom 110 but both scooters are completely different in terms of design and specifications. The scooter will be aimed at catering to riders who seek a blend of practicality and ruggedness for their daily commutes and for adventure lovers.
Hero Xoom 160 Features
The Xoom 160 draws power from a 156cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. While the exact power figures haven’t been officially revealed yet, Hero claims it will produce around 15.2 HP of peak power at 7500 rpm and 14.1 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. This translates to an estimated 0-100 kmph acceleration time of 12 seconds and a top speed of around 90 kmph. The focus here seems to be on comfortable cruising rather than outright speed, which might be a good fit for riders prioritizing a relaxed riding experience. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Xoom 160 is expected to deliver a mileage of around 40 kmpl, offering decent fuel economy for everyday use.
Hero has equipped the Xoom 160 with disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. These brakes are further enhanced by Hero’s Integrated Braking System (IBS) that provides improved stopping power, especially for riders unfamiliar with balancing braking force between the front and rear wheels. The 12-inch tubeless tires and a ground clearance of 165 mm should offer decent handling for navigating city streets and uneven terrains.The Hero Xoom 160 comes loaded with features, making it a compelling option in the feature-rich scooter segment in India. The highlight is the all-digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones and access navigation functions directly on the instrument cluster.
Other rider-centric features include keyless ignition for added convenience, a remote seat opening function, Hero’s i3s start-stop system to improve fuel efficiency by automatically turning off the engine at idling stops, and an all-LED lighting package for better visibility during night rides. The Xoom 160 is also expected to offer a “Smart Find” function, although the exact functionality of this feature remains unclear at this time. Hero’s Xoom 160 distinguishes itself with its focus on adventure riding, for riders who want to explore beyond the city limits while still maintaining practicality for everyday commutes.
Xoom 160 Price and launch details
The Hero Xoom 160 will be entering a competitive market space in India. It will face established rivals like the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Aprilia SXR 160, which also offer sporty 150cc engine options. Additionally, the Xoom 160 might compete with larger scooters like the Honda PCX 150, popular for their comfort and touring capabilities. Though the Xoom 160 appears to be a well-rounded package for riders seeking a feature-rich, adventure-ready scooter, with focus on comfort, practicality, and rider convenience, its success will ultimately depend on the final pricing, confirmed performance figures, and how it compares to its established competitors in the market. Speculations are rife that the scooter will be priced around Rs 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom) and will be released before the end of 2024.