Hello and welcome, everyone. I’m your host, and today we’re diving deep into the machine that Hero MotoCorp is banking on to rule the premium commuter segment: the Hero Glamour XTEC 125.
Hero is the undisputed king of mileage and reliability in India, but the 125cc segment has become a proper war zone lately. Riders are not just asking for anymore; they also want features, style, and a connected experience. That’s exactly where the Glamour XTEC steps in—it’s the old reliable workhorse, but now wearing a sharp suit and carrying a smartphone.
Is this new, technology-loaded version of the iconic Glamour truly worth your hard-earned money? Does the new engine package deliver on both performance and the famous Hero mileage promise? We spent a considerable amount of time riding it through choked city traffic and open highway stretches to bring you the definitive answer.
Let’s start with the price. The Hero Glamour XTEC starts at an ex-showroom price of approximately ₹84,106 for the Drum variant, going up to about ₹88,346 (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the Disc variant. For a bike in this highly competitive segment, that pricing puts it right in the thick of the action against its toughest rivals.

Quick Specs Table: Hero Glamour XTEC 125 Highlights
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the ride, here are the core numbers that define the machine.
| Specification | Detail |
| Engine Type | Air-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder, BS6 2.0 |
| Engine Displacement | 124.7 cc} |
| Max Power | 10.72 bhp (10.84 PS} 7500{ rpm |
| Max Torque | 10.6{ Nm 6000 rpm} |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 10 Litres} |
| Kerb Weight (Disc) | 123 kg} |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm |
| Key Feature | Bluetooth Connectivity, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) |
Exterior Design & Road Presence: The Premium Commuter Look
The Glamour name is decades old, but the XTEC iteration is definitely a modern evolution. Hero has done a commendable job of balancing the traditional commuter silhouette with modern, aspirational elements.
The Stance and Styling
The design is sharp and contemporary, clearly aimed at the younger buyer who might otherwise consider a sportier 125cc model.
- Headlamp: The most significant visual upgrade is the full LED headlamp unit. It’s an aggressive, sharp design that gives the bike excellent road presence, especially after dark. This is a big differentiator from the standard Glamour.
- Muscularity: The fuel tank gets chunky extensions, giving the bike a much more muscular and planted look. It doesn’t look like a skinny commuter; it has that slightly bulky, premium feel.
- Wheels: The sharp, new alloy wheel design adds a modern touch. The $18 \text{ inch}$ wheels, paired with tubeless tyres, contribute to both its looks and stability.
Does it turn heads on the road? In the commuter segment, yes, it does. The LED headlamp and the sporty graphics certainly make it stand out from the likes of the plain-Jane Honda Shine or the older Super Splendor models. The fit and finish are on par with what you expect from a Hero bike—durable plastics and a good paint finish, especially on the tank.

Interior, Comfort & Features: A Tech-Loaded Cabin
The biggest selling point of the XTEC is not its engine but its digital suite. For years, Hero was known for rugged simplicity; now, they are adding a layer of sophisticated technology, giving riders an affordable, connected experience.
The All-Digital Cockpit
The key feature is the all-digital instrument cluster (LCD). It’s bright, clear, and packed with information you normally don’t find in this segment:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Connects to your smartphone for call and SMS alerts.
- Turn-by-Turn Navigation: This is a segment-first killer feature. While it’s basic turn-by-turn and not a full-fledged map, it’s immensely useful for navigating city complexities without pulling out your phone.
- Real-Time Mileage Indicator: A constant, gentle reminder to keep your wrist light on the throttle.
- Other Basics: Speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, gear position indicator, and the essential side-stand engine cut-off.
Comfort and Ergonomics
For a commuter, comfort is paramount, and the Glamour XTEC delivers on this front.
- Riding Posture: The upright seating position is perfect for city commuting. The handlebar is easy to reach, and the footpegs are mid-set, resulting in a relaxed, stress-free posture.
- Seating: The seat is long and well-padded. Both the rider and the pillion will find it comfortable even on longer city rides or short weekend trips. Unlike some sportier rivals with split seats, the Glamour’s single, long seat offers practical space.
- Suspension Comfort: This is where Hero typically excels. The front uses $30 \text{ mm}$ telescopic forks, and the rear has a 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorber setup. The suspension absorbs potholes easily—a crucial factor on broken Indian roads. You barely feel the smaller undulations, providing a plush ride quality that Hero buyers love.
Missing Features to Note: While the feature list is strong, it still misses a few premium touches, which is understandable for the price point:
- It does not have a sporty mono-shock suspension like some rivals.
- The top variant offers a Disc Brake at the front, but there is no ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), only IBS (Integrated Braking System) or CBS (Combi-Braking System), which is standard for the segment.

Engine Performance & Driving Dynamics: Refined, Not Racy
The engine powering the Glamour XTEC is the familiar air-cooled unit with Hero’s revolutionary XSens Programmed FI (Fuel Injection) system. The primary goal of this engine is fuel efficiency and smooth, accessible torque, not outright racing performance.
City Drive Experience
In the city, the Glamour XTEC is a delight.
- Low-End Torque: The 10.6 Nmof peak torque arrives early at 6000 rpmThis means you get a strong initial pull off the line, making it incredibly easy to overtake and navigate stop-start traffic.
- i3S Technology: Hero’s patented Idle Stop-Start System (i3S) is a massive fuel saver in city traffic. When you stop at a signal, the engine automatically cuts off, and the moment you pull the clutch, it silently restarts. This is extremely useful and a definite USP in the commuter class.
- Clutch and Gearbox: The 5-speed gearbox is slick and precise, and the clutch is light, reducing rider fatigue during peak hours. Maneuverability is excellent, thanks to the bike’s low kerb weight.
Highway Drive & Dynamics
While the Glamour XTEC is primarily a city bike, it can certainly hold its own on the highways for short to medium trips.
- Stability: At speeds of the bike feels absolutely planted. Theheelbase and thewheels offer good straight-line stability.
- Top End: Pushing it past, the power starts tapering off, and you do feel mild vibrations through the handlebars and footpegs. The top speed is around It’s adequate, but it’s a constant reminder that this is a commuter, not a performance machine like the Pulsar 125.
- Braking: The optional front disc brake offers good stopping power, backed by the IBS for a balanced brake application. However, as noted before, the lack of ABS means hard braking at high speed requires caution.
Safety (Crucial Section): The Commuter Baseline
In the commuter segment, safety largely boils down to braking technology and the physical dimensions of the bike.
- Braking System: The XTEC comes with aDrum combination. It employs the Integrated Braking System (IBS), which is Hero’s version of the Combi-Braking System (CBS). Applying the rear brake lever automatically applies a portion of the front brake, significantly improving control and reducing the chance of skidding, especially for novice riders.
- Side Stand Engine Cut-Off: A simple, yet vital safety feature. If the side stand is down, the engine will not start or will automatically shut off, preventing the common mistake of riding with the stand down.
- Build Quality: Hero’s diamond frame is known for its ruggedness. While there is no Global NCAP-style rating for motorcycles, the overall build feels sturdy and durable, designed to withstand the harsh realities of Indian roads.
Real World Mileage (The Truth): Kitna Deti Hai?
The ultimate question for any Hero bike in India. The official, ARAI-claimed mileage for the Glamour XTEC is But as we all know, that’s tested under perfect lab conditions.
Here is what the real-world usage translates to:
| Condition | Claimed Mileage (ARAI) | Real World Owner-Reported Mileage |
| Overall | 63 | $53-57 \text{ kmpl}$ |
| City Traffic (Heavy) | N/A | $50-53 \text{ kmpl}$ |
| Highway Cruising (Gentle) | N/A | $58-60 \text{ kmpl}$ |
The average real-world mileage of is a very respectable figure for a feature-packed . The i3S system certainly helps nudge that city number up a bit. While the mileage doesn’t shatter any records, it ensures a great balance between power and economy, keeping your monthly fuel bill well within check.
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The Competition: Glamour XTEC 125 vs Rivals
Thesegment is home to some of the most competitive models. Based on price, segment, and feature set, the Hero Glamour XTEC faces its toughest challenges from the Honda SP 125 and the TVS Raider 125.
Hero Glamour XTEC vs Honda SP 125 vs TVS Raider 125
| Feature/Spec | Hero Glamour XTEC | Honda SP 125 | TVS Raider 125 |
| Max Power | 10.72 bhp} | 10.72bhp | 11.2{ bhp} |
| Max Torque | 10.6 Nm} | 10.9 Nm | 11.2{ Nm} |
| Real Mileage (Avg) | 55 kmpl | 60 kmpl | 56 kmpl |
| Key Feature | Bluetooth, Turn-by-Turn Nav | LED Headlamp, Silent Start (ACG) | Ride Modes, Under-Seat Storage |
| Rear Suspension | Hydraulic Shock Absorbers (Twin) | Hydraulic Shock Absorbers (Twin) | Monoshock |
| Ex-Showroom Price | ₹84,106 – ₹88,346 | ₹87,274 – ₹94,188 | ₹83,720 – ₹96,100 |
Winner: Value For Money (VFM)?
- If you prioritize Performance & Features: The TVS Raider 125 is the winner. It has the most powerful engine in the group, a sporty monoshock, and aggressive styling. Its top-end variants are packed with features like a TFT display.
- If you prioritize Refinement & Ultimate Mileage: The Honda SP 125 is the pick. It’s known for Honda’s superior engine refinement, Silent Start technology, and typically delivers slightly better real-world mileage than the other two.
- If you prioritize Technology & Connectivity at a Low Price: The Hero Glamour XTEC 125 wins this one. It undercuts the top variants of its rivals while offering the unique advantage of turn-by-turn navigation and the essential LED headlamp. It’s the best “connected” commuter for the price.
Final Verdict: The Tech-Smart Commuter
The Hero Glamour XTEC 125 is a motorcycle that respects its legacy while embracing the future. It’s not about blazing speed; it’s about making your daily commute easy, comfortable, and now, tech-enabled. It successfully bridges the gap between the bare-bones commuter and the high-end premium 125cc models.
Buy the Hero Glamour XTEC 125 if:
- You want turn-by-turn navigation on your motorcycle without spending a fortune on a high-end bike.
- Your primary need is a comfortable, reliable, and durable workhorse that handles bad roads gracefully.
- You prioritize fuel-saving technology (i3S) for heavy city traffic conditions.
Skip it if:
- You are a performance enthusiast who wants a racy engine and aggressive handling; look at the TVS Raider instead.
- You are looking for the absolute highest refinement in the segment; the Honda SP 125 might still edge it out slightly.
- You absolutely need a rear disc brake option (only the front disc is offered).
The Glamour XTEC is a solid, well-rounded package. It delivers on the three critical aspects of the Indian commuter market: style, mileage, and features. The connectivity features truly elevate it above the traditional offerings, making it a very strong recommendation for the modern Indian commuter.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
1. What is the on-road price of the Hero Glamour XTEC 125 in major cities?
The on-road price is always higher than the ex-showroom price due to RTO, insurance, and road tax.
On-Road Price (Delhi, approx): ₹97,000 to ₹1,02,000
On-Road Price (Mumbai, approx): ₹1,01,000 to ₹1,06,000
It is always best to check with your local Hero dealership for the exact, final price quote.
2. Does the Hero Glamour XTEC have ABS?
No. The Hero Glamour XTEC uses a Disc brake variant that features the Integrated Braking System (IBS), which is a combined braking system (CBS). It does not have single-channel or dual-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
3. What is the waiting period for the Hero Glamour XTEC?
Generally, the Hero Glamour XTEC is readily available across most dealerships in major cities. You should be able to get delivery within 1 to 2 weeks, if not immediately, depending on the colour and variant choice.
4. Is the Glamour XTEC compatible with E20 fuel?
Yes, the Hero Glamour XTEC is compliant with the latest BS6 Phase 2 norms and is fully E20 fuel compliant, meaning it can run on petrol blended with up to ethanol.