New Hero Karizma XMR 210: The Hero Karizma, a name that was once a legend of Indian biking scene, is back in a modern avatar, the Hero Karizma XMR 210. Refurbished in new avatars with new design, improved hardware and performance-rich engine, the new Karizma aspires to bring back the emotional recall that enthusiasts shared with the older model in the 2000s.
But does the Karizma XMR 210 carry the Karizma lineage further or is it just another mid-segment sporty commuter? Let’s take a detailed look.
New Hero Karizma XMR 210 Design: Sleek, Aggressive, Sporty
MOST Noticeable it’s aggressive with fully faired styling is what strikes you when you first see the new Karizma XMR. As opposed to the older curvier design, the new XMR 210 features edgy body panels, a sporty LED headlamp setup, sharp looking fairings and a neat split seat design.
It’s done a good job of it as well, managing to mould the 200 into a racey, youth oriented model, yet remaining something that can still be used everyday.
Available in some real flamboyant paint schemes (Iconic Yellow, Matte Red and Phantom Black), the Dominar boasts a striking road presence.
And the fairing design is not just cosmetic, either — it adds wind protection on the highway, which makes long rides more pleasant.
Engine and Performance: Slick Meets Sporty
Powering the Karizma XMR 210 is the 210cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor, that churns out 25.5PS and 20.4Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed transmission with slipper clutch, a segment first for Hero.
This engine is really nice with smooth power delivery and there’s a good mid-range which allows you to make quick overtakes on the highways. The XMR will hold between 90–100 km/h without any hassle, and the slipper clutch keeps you from packing the mud right out of the front springs as you bang it down a gear in a fit of enthusiastic exuberance.
It’s not the most aggressive bike in the category, but strikes a good balance between city commuting and weekend rides.
Ride and Handling: Stable and Novice-Ready
Hero has slapped on a diamond-type frame onto the XMR, with telescopic front forks and a monoshock at the rear.
The suspension strikes a nice balance between comfort and sportiness, soaking up bumps, but not letting the Taurus fall all over itself when the speed gets up there.
Clip-on handlebars cause the rider to be canted forward a little, but it’s nothing too extreme for the daily ride to work.
Cornering stability is great and one will find good stopping power and control with the dual-channel ABS and a disc brake on both wheels.
Features and Tech: Actually Pretty Full of Stuff
And Hero has worked to up its tech game. The XMR 210 comes with a fully digital LCD instrumentation console with Bluetooth-enabled GPS, turn-by-turn navigation, gear position indicator etc. All-LED illumination is standard too, from the DRLs and indicators to the taillamps.
This does make it one of the most feature-laden motorcycles in its segment which would pit it nicely against rivals such as the Yamaha R15 and Bajaj Pulsar RS200 widely.
Mileage, and Practicality: Good for Daily Usage.
Commonly known as first generation speed bike, the Karizma XMR has around 40 kmpl of normal driving economy despite it being a sports bike. You have a pretty decent riding range thanks to an 11-liter fuel tank.
The 810 mm seat height is rider friendly for average dudes, and the 163 kg kerb weight should be manageable for most people even amongst the city traffic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Sporty, aggressive looks and plenty of street presence
Improved 210cc liquid cooled engine.
6 speed gearbox with slipper clutch
It’s packed with modern touches (Bluetooth, nav)
Decent ride comfort and balance Good handling
Safety -Bosch dual-channel ABS for improved braking safety.
Cons:
No USD front forks
Not as much power as in-segment competitors
Very mild vibes at high RPMs
Limited rear pillion comfort
Initially only available through selected dealerships
New Hero Karizma XMR 210 Result: A smart Re-invention of an Icon.
The Hero Karizma XMR 210 revives a legendary badge in a package which is contemporary and sensible for the present day riders. It’s sporty but accessible, fast enough but not intimidating and good-looking without being uncomfortable.
If you’ve been a fan of the old Karizma or are in the market for an overall sporty commuter with modern features, the XMR 210 demands your attention. Hero has finally proven it has what it takes to perform in the premium 200cc space—and this is no mere comeback story.