The morning sun glinted off the new pearl-green tank as I kicked the side stand up on the 2025 Hero Glamour XTEC. The familiar thump of its single-cylinder engine settled into a refined idle that seemed distinctly more composed than its predecessor. This sense of familiar-yet-improved encapsulates the essence of Hero MotoCorp’s approach with the latest iteration of their mid-segment stalwart – a motorcycle that has quietly served millions of Indian commuters for nearly two decades while evolving in measured steps rather than dramatic leaps.
The Glamour nameplate first appeared in 2005, positioning itself as a slightly premium alternative to the utilitarian commuters that dominated Indian roads. Over successive generations, it has maintained this middle-ground positioning – offering more features and refinement than basic transport options without straying into the performance territory occupied by the 150-180cc segment. This careful market positioning has helped it consistently remain among India’s top-selling motorcycles despite increasingly sophisticated competition.
The 2025 model represents the most comprehensive update to the Glamour XTEC since the introduction of the XTEC variant in 2022. Rather than radical reinvention, Hero has focused on meaningful improvements to the motorcycle’s technology, efficiency, and overall user experience – areas particularly valued by its target demographic of daily commuters seeking reliability with a touch of sophistication.
After spending two weeks and nearly 500 kilometers with the updated Glamour XTEC across varied urban and rural conditions around Jaipur, I’ve gained insights into how successfully Hero has refined its formula for the modern commuter motorcycle.
Design Evolution: Subtle Sophistication
The Glamour has always maintained a somewhat conservative aesthetic compared to some rivals, focusing on clean lines rather than aggressive styling. The 2025 update maintains this approach while introducing more contemporary elements that help it appear fresh without alienating existing customers.
The front end receives the most noticeable updates, with a redesigned LED headlamp that incorporates a distinctive H-shaped daytime running light – a design element now appearing across Hero’s refreshed lineup. This is flanked by sleeker turn indicators that are better integrated into the cowl, creating a more cohesive appearance than the somewhat tacked-on look of the previous generation.
The fuel tank maintains its muscular profile but now features more pronounced knee recesses that improve riding comfort while adding visual interest. New graphics are more subtle than before, with an emphasis on pinstriping and minimal decals rather than large, bold patterns. This restraint gives the motorcycle a more mature appearance that should age gracefully.
Side panels and the tail section have been resculpted to appear lighter, addressing criticism that the previous model looked somewhat bulky for its displacement class. The taillight is now an LED unit with a distinctive light signature that provides improved visibility while creating a more premium appearance, particularly at night.
Color options have been refreshed with an emphasis on metallic finishes. My test unit came in a particularly attractive “Pear Green Metallic” that shifted between deep emerald and teal depending on lighting conditions. Other options include “Matte Phantom Black,” “Candy Blazing Red,” and a particularly striking “Electric Blue” that features subtle gold accents – a combination that has proven especially popular among younger buyers.
While not revolutionary, these design updates collectively modernize the Glamour’s appearance while maintaining the visual continuity that has served it well. The motorcycle manages to look contemporary without appearing trendy – an important distinction for a product whose typical ownership period extends well beyond the latest styling fads.
Ergonomics and Comfort: Practical Refinement
Rider comfort has received particular attention in this update, with subtle changes to the riding position that improve long-distance comfort without compromising the upright posture preferred for urban navigation. The handlebar is mounted 15mm closer to the rider compared to the previous generation, reducing the need to stretch forward – a welcome change during extended city commutes where frequent starts and stops are the norm.
The seat has been completely redesigned with multi-density foam that provides better support for both rider and passenger. Its length has increased by approximately 25mm, allowing for more positional adjustment during longer rides. The textured cover material offers improved grip while appearing to be more resistant to the sun damage that often affects motorcycles parked outdoors in India’s harsh climate.
Foot peg positions remain unchanged, maintaining the neutral, comfortable stance that has been a Glamour hallmark. However, the pegs themselves now feature rubber inserts that better isolate vibrations – a small but meaningful improvement during highway stretches where engine vibrations might otherwise cause numbness over time.
Passenger accommodations have also improved with a wider pillion section and slightly raised grab rails that provide a more secure handhold. These revisions address a common complaint from two-up riders on the previous model and make the Glamour a more viable option for occasional tandem commuting.
Weather protection, while limited as on most commuter motorcycles, has been enhanced through a slightly larger front cowl and more effective knee deflectors integrated into the fuel tank design. These don’t transform the exposed riding experience but do provide incremental improvement during monsoon season – an important consideration for a vehicle that serves as year-round transportation for many owners.
Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Refinement
Under the refreshed styling lies Hero’s proven 124.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, though it receives several meaningful updates for 2025. Power output increases marginally to 11.2 horsepower at 7,500 rpm (up from 10.8 hp), while torque remains unchanged at 10.6 Nm at 6,000 rpm. These modest gains were achieved through revised port design and a more efficient combustion chamber rather than increased displacement.
More significant than the power increase are the improvements to refinement and efficiency. The engine now incorporates Hero’s enhanced i3s start-stop technology, which shuts off the engine after 5 seconds of idling and restarts it immediately when the clutch is engaged. This system works more seamlessly than in previous iterations, with barely perceptible transitions that don’t disrupt the riding experience in stop-and-go traffic.
Fuel efficiency benefits significantly from this technology, with Hero claiming a 7% improvement in real-world economy. My testing returned consistently impressive figures of 68-72 km/l in mixed riding conditions – exceptional even by frugal Indian commuter standards. With its 10-liter fuel tank, this translates to a theoretical range exceeding 700 kilometers between fill-ups, though practical range is closer to 600 kilometers when accounting for reserve.
The 5-speed transmission has been refined with revised shift linkage that delivers more positive engagement between gears. False neutrals – occasionally an issue on the previous generation – were entirely absent during my testing period. Clutch action is commendably light, requiring minimal effort even in dense traffic situations where frequent engagement is necessary.
Engine refinement represents the most noticeable improvement over the previous generation. Vibrations are now better isolated across the rev range, with the buzz that previously manifested through the footpegs and handlebars at higher speeds significantly reduced. While still not as silky-smooth as some Japanese competitors, the Glamour now offers a level of refinement that belies its affordable price point and utilitarian purpose.
Ride and Handling: Balancing Comfort with Control
The 2025 Glamour XTEC maintains the conventional suspension setup of its predecessor – telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers – but with revised tuning that better balances comfort and control. Spring rates have been slightly softened compared to the previous generation, improving absorption of small road imperfections without compromising stability during more dynamic riding.
This revised suspension pairs well with the motorcycle’s diamond-type frame, which remains unchanged but benefits from the more compliant damping characteristics. The Glamour tracks confidently through corners while absorbing the varied surface imperfections that characterize many Indian roads. During testing on particularly poor rural routes outside Jaipur, the suspension demonstrated impressive composure, preventing minor bumps from unsettling the chassis while effectively dampening larger impacts.
Braking performance has improved through the adoption of a larger 240mm front disc (up from 220mm) on the top-spec variant, coupled with a 130mm drum rear. Hero’s integrated braking system, which distributes braking force between front and rear when only the rear brake is applied, continues to provide additional security during emergency stops. Stopping distances from 60 km/h measured consistently around 17.5 meters during testing – respectable figures for the segment.
The standard tire sizes remain unchanged at a practical 80/100-18 front and 90/90-18 rear, though they now come from MRF with a revised compound that offers improved grip in wet conditions without compromising longevity – a crucial consideration for cost-conscious owners. During brief riding on rain-slicked roads, these tires provided reassuring traction while maintaining the low rolling resistance that contributes to the motorcycle’s excellent fuel efficiency.
Handling characteristics remain oriented toward stability rather than agility, with the Glamour requiring deliberate inputs for direction changes. This trait feels appropriate for a motorcycle primarily designed for commuting rather than enthusiastic cornering. The 1,273mm wheelbase and 144mm ground clearance strike a sensible balance between straight-line stability and maneuverability in congested urban environments.
Technology Integration: Meaningful Modernization
The “XTEC” designation in the Glamour’s name refers to its enhanced technology package, and the 2025 model significantly expands these features without adding unnecessary complexity.
The instrument cluster has been completely redesigned, now featuring a larger LCD display with blue backlight that offers excellent legibility in varied lighting conditions. This display provides comprehensive information including gear position indicator, real-time fuel efficiency, distance-to-empty prediction, and service reminders – data points particularly valuable for commuters managing weekly transportation budgets.
Bluetooth connectivity, previously a premium segment feature, is now standard on the XTEC variant, enabling call and SMS alerts via the instrument display when paired with a smartphone. The Hero Ride Guide navigation system provides turn-by-turn directions through simple arrow indicators on the display – an elegantly minimalist approach that provides essential guidance without the distraction of a full map display.
Lighting technology takes a significant step forward with full LED implementation for headlight, taillight, and indicators. Beyond the aesthetic improvements, these LED units provide notably better illumination during night riding – a meaningful safety enhancement for commuters who often begin or end their journeys in darkness, particularly during winter months.
The USB-C charging port positioned below the instrument cluster acknowledges the importance of smartphone connectivity for modern riders, providing convenient power for devices during daily commutes. This port delivers 10W output – sufficient for maintaining charge while using navigation or music streaming services.
Perhaps the most significant technological addition is the introduction of Hero’s xSens technology package, which incorporates multiple sensors to optimize engine performance based on riding conditions. This system continuously monitors temperature, throttle position, and engine load to adjust fueling and ignition timing, contributing to both improved efficiency and more responsive throttle behavior across varied riding scenarios.
Ownership Experience: Beyond the Motorcycle
Hero’s approach to the Glamour XTEC extends beyond the physical product to encompass the entire ownership journey – an important consideration for a vehicle that represents a significant investment for many middle-class Indian families.
Scheduled maintenance intervals remain at every 6,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first, with Hero claiming a 5% reduction in routine service costs compared to the previous generation. This efficiency comes primarily from improved component accessibility that reduces labor time during common maintenance procedures.
The Hero Services app has been enhanced to allow owners to schedule service appointments, access vehicle documentation, and receive maintenance reminders. The app also provides detailed fuel efficiency statistics and riding history, allowing owners to track their usage patterns and identify opportunities for improvement.
Warranty coverage has been extended to 5 years or 70,000 kilometers as standard (up from 3 years/30,000 kilometers), reflecting Hero’s confidence in the Glamour’s durability and providing peace of mind for owners planning longer-term ownership. This extended coverage represents one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the segment and addresses a key decision factor for value-conscious buyers.
Hero’s extensive service network remains a compelling advantage, with over 6,000 touchpoints across India ensuring that owners are rarely more than a few kilometers from authorized maintenance facilities. This expansive coverage proves particularly valuable for riders in smaller towns and rural areas where competing manufacturers often maintain limited presence.
Market Positioning and Value Proposition
Priced at ₹85,720 for the disc brake variant and ₹82,348 for the drum brake option (ex-showroom Delhi), the 2025 Glamour XTEC positions itself in the heart of the premium commuter segment. This pricing structure places it above basic 100-110cc commuters but below the 150cc sporty commuter category – a sweet spot that balances features and affordability.
The value proposition centers around the combination of proven reliability, enhanced technology, and exceptional efficiency – priorities that align closely with the pragmatic requirements of its target demographic. While not offering the outright performance of larger-displacement alternatives, the Glamour delivers a more sophisticated commuting experience without the increased purchase and operating costs associated with moving up a segment.
Chief competition comes from the Honda SP 125, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and TVS Raider 125 – all capable motorcycles with their own distinct strengths. The Glamour differentiates itself through its balance of efficiency and features, alongside Hero’s unmatched service network and newly extended warranty coverage.
Four variants are available, with differences primarily in braking configuration (disc or drum) and color options. Even the base variant includes essential features like LED headlight and i3s technology, while the top-spec model adds the full technology suite and premium color options.
Environmental Considerations: Responsibility at Scale
With monthly sales often exceeding 50,000 units, the environmental impact of the Glamour cannot be overlooked. The 2025 model addresses this responsibility through compliance with BS-VI Phase 2 emission standards, which mandate stricter control of pollutants including carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides.
Beyond regulatory compliance, Hero has implemented several sustainability initiatives in the Glamour’s production. The company claims a 30% reduction in water usage during manufacturing compared to the previous generation, alongside increased use of recycled materials in non-critical components. While individual impacts may be modest, the aggregate effect across such high production volumes becomes significant.
The improved fuel efficiency also contributes meaningfully to reduced lifetime carbon emissions – an important consideration given that many Glamours will accumulate 70,000-100,000 kilometers during their service lives. Hero estimates that the efficiency improvements alone could reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 400 kg over a typical ownership period compared to the previous generation – a modest but meaningful contribution multiplied across hundreds of thousands of units.
Hero Glamour XTEC Thoughtful Evolution Meets Market Reality
The 2025 Hero Glamour XTEC exemplifies the virtue of thoughtful evolution over flashy revolution. It acknowledges and preserves the core attributes that have made its predecessors successful while carefully implementing meaningful improvements that enhance the ownership experience without unnecessary complexity or cost.
In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by technology for its own sake, there’s something refreshingly honest about the Glamour’s approach. It makes no pretense of being something it’s not, instead focusing entirely on fulfilling its intended purpose with maximum efficiency and minimum fuss.