Every now and then, a company decides to completely shake up a category we thought was set in stone. That’s exactly what Hero MotoCorp seems to be doing with the launch of the all-new 2025 Hero Glamour X 125. They’ve taken the humble 125cc commuter—a segment known for practicality and efficiency—and injected it with a dose of tech you’d usually find on bikes costing twice as much. We’re talking about features that are literally a first for this class of motorcycle.
Key Highlights
- ✓ Features a first-in-segment cruise control system, a rarity for 125cc bikes.
- ✓ Equipped with ride-by-wire throttle and three distinct riding modes: Eco, Road, and Power.
- ✓ Priced aggressively, starting at Rs. 89,999 (ex-showroom) for the Drum variant.
- ✓ Powered by an updated 124.7cc engine delivering 11.4 bhp and 10.5 Nm of torque.
- ✓ Sports a modern colour TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation.
A Tech Revolution in the Commuter Segment
Let’s get straight to the biggest headline: the Hero Glamour X 125 comes with cruise control. Yes, you read that right. This is the first 125cc bike in the segment to get this feature, something typically reserved for premium performance machines like the KTM 390 Duke or the TVS Apache RTR 310. There’s a dedicated toggle switch to engage it, allowing you to set and reset your speed, which is a game-changer for those occasional highway stretches on your daily commute.
But the tech wizardry doesn't stop there. The bike also introduces a ride-by-wire throttle system. This electronic throttle control allows for more precise engine response and enables another segment-first feature: three distinct ride modes. You can switch between Eco, Road, and Power modes, each of which changes the engine mapping to suit your needs, whether you're trying to save fuel in city traffic or get a bit more punch on an open road.
Topping it all off is a beautiful, full-colour TFT instrument cluster. This isn't just for show; it offers Bluetooth connectivity for your smartphone, giving you access to turn-by-turn navigation right on your dashboard. No more fumbling with your phone mounted on the handlebars! The package is rounded out with modern essentials like full-LED lighting and a handy USB Type-C charging port. It’s clear Hero is aiming to make this the most advanced bike in its class.
Sharp Looks and a Proven Heart
A bike packed with tech needs to look the part, and the Glamour X 125 doesn't disappoint. Hero has given it a complete design overhaul, resulting in a sporty and sharp profile. The front end is aggressive, and the large, edgy tank shrouds give it a muscular stance. There are plenty of cuts and creases across the bodywork, enhancing that aggressive look and making it stand out in a sea of plain-jane commuters.
Underneath all that new styling is an updated 124.7cc, single-cylinder engine. If that sounds familiar, it’s because this is the same Sprint-EBT engine that powers the impressive Hero Xtreme 125R. It produces a healthy 11.4 bhp at 8,250rpm and a peak torque of 10.5Nm at 6,500rpm. Hero has also focused on refinement, using a balancer shaft and optimized gear ratios to reduce vibrations and ensure smooth power delivery for everyday riding.
The motorcycle is available in two main variants: a base Drum version and a top-spec Disc version, which comes in at just under the Rs. 1 lakh mark. You get a nice selection of five colours across both variants. The Drum model is offered in Matt Magnetic Silver and Candy Blazing Red, while the Disc gets you Metallic Nexus Blue, Black Teal Blue, and Black Pearl Red. Bookings are already open, so it won’t be long before we see these on the road.
The Showdown: Glamour X vs. The Competition
Hero isn't launching the Glamour X into a vacuum. Its primary competitor, Honda, just rolled out the Honda CB125 Hornet a few weeks earlier. So, how do they stack up? On paper, it's a fascinating comparison. The Hornet's 123.94cc engine produces slightly less power at 11hp but a tad more torque at 11.2 Nm. Both bikes feature a 5-speed transmission, so performance should be quite close.
The real battle, however, is in the features and pricing. The Honda CB125 Hornet is no slouch; it comes with a 4.2-inch TFT display, Bluetooth with the Honda RoadSync app, navigation, call alerts, and a USB-C port. But the Glamour X counters with its trump cards: cruise control and multiple riding modes, features the Hornet lacks.
Here's where it gets really interesting. The top-spec Disc variant of the Glamour X is priced at Rs. 99,999 (ex-showroom). The Honda CB125 Hornet, on the other hand, comes in at Rs 1.12 lakh (ex-showroom). That's a significant price difference, and it puts Hero in a very strong position. They're offering more segment-first technology for less money, which is a compelling argument for any buyer.
Is It What Commuters Really Want?
This brings us to the million-dollar question. Hero’s bread and butter has always been the commuter segment, with bikes like the Splendor and the classic Glamour selling in massive volumes. This new Glamour X is a bold attempt to inject some excitement and dynamism into a category often defined by fuel efficiency and low running costs. But will the average commuter, who values affordability above all, be willing to pay extra for features like cruise control?
Critics might argue that Hero is chasing "segment-first" tags that sound great on paper but may end up as gimmicks in the real world. However, Hero hasn't forgotten the practical side of things. The Glamour X also includes thoughtful touches like a wide handlebar, a larger pillion seat for better comfort, under-seat storage, and that essential USB charger. These are practical additions that directly address the everyday needs of a rider.
You have to give Hero MotoCorp credit for trying to elevate the commuter category beyond its barebones reputation. The effort feels genuine, even if it might seem a bit ambitious. While the spec sheet is undeniably impressive, the true test will be how these features translate into genuine value for daily riders over years of use.
Conclusion
The bottom line is this: the 2025 Hero Glamour X 125 is a bold, ambitious motorcycle that redefines what we can expect from a 125cc commuter. By packing it with high-end features like cruise control, ride modes, and a TFT display, all while keeping the price incredibly competitive against rivals like the Honda CB125 Hornet, Hero has thrown down the gauntlet. It’s a feature-packed, stylish, and powerful contender that stands out on paper. Whether this tech-forward approach will win over the hearts of the stubbornly practical commuter segment remains to be seen, but it’s certainly one of the most exciting launches in this space in a long time.
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