Hero Glamour X First Look: Cruise Control and Ride Modes Arrive in the 125cc Segment

A Technological Leap in the 125cc Segment

The 125cc commuter motorcycle segment has long been defined by basic features, steady fuel economy, and modest pricing. However, Hero MotoCorp is rewriting the rulebook with the official introduction of the new Hero Glamour X. By bringing premium technology like cruise control and selectable ride modes to an everyday commuter, the manufacturer is challenging the boundaries of what a budget-friendly motorcycle can offer.

This is not a simple cosmetic update or a mild variant expansion. The Hero Glamour X represents a fundamental shift in how entry-level motorcycles are equipped, signaling that everyday riders no longer have to compromise on modern safety and convenience features.

What Exactly is the Glamour X?

While the Glamour nameplate has been a staple in the Indian market for years, the Glamour X positions itself as a futuristic evolution above the standard model and previous XTEC iterations. Hero has engineered this motorcycle to appeal to a younger, tech-savvy demographic.

The core philosophy behind the Glamour X is combining the low running costs of a 125cc engine with the feature list typically reserved for premium 200cc-plus motorcycles. It is a strategic move designed to elevate the commuter experience without intimidating buyers with heavy curb weights or excessive maintenance costs.

Key Features That Break the Mould

The equipment list on the Glamour X is unusually strong for this price bracket. The most prominent addition is the inclusion of Cruise Control—a feature rarely seen outside premium touring segments.

• Selectable Ride Modes: In a first for the 125cc segment, riders can switch between three distinct modes—Eco, Road, and Power. These are specifically tuned to adjust to the rider's mood and varying traffic conditions.
• Panic Brake Alert: Another segment-first safety feature, this system automatically triggers a smart winker-alert during hard braking to warn following vehicles and reduce the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Low-Battery Kickstart: According to Hero MotoCorp, the motorcycle features a world-first smart solenoid valve that allows the rider to kickstart the bike even when the battery is critically low.
• Integrated Smart Storage: A highly practical addition is a dedicated storage space designed to house two mobile phones and a wireless earbud case.
• Advanced Cockpit: Riders are greeted by a 10.7 cm multi-color console that displays modern metrics, including distance-to-empty and an average fuel efficiency readout.
• Lighting and Styling: The motorcycle features an all-LED setup, an aerodynamic visor to reduce wind resistance, and a muscular build with sporty graphics.

Official Specifications

At the core of the Glamour X is a refined powertrain designed to balance performance and efficiency. The manufacturer highlights the use of a SPRINT-EBT (Engine Balancer Technology) engine to provide a smoother ride and reduce vibrations.

• Engine: 124.7 cc, Air-cooled, 4-Stroke, Fuel Injected
• Maximum Power: 11.4 BHP (8.5 kW) at 8,250 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 10.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm
• Claimed Mileage: 65 km/l (Tested with E20 fuel)
• Transmission: Manual with a wet multi-plate clutch
• Suspension: 30mm telescopic front forks, 5-step adjustable hydraulic dual shock absorbers at the rear
• Seat Height: 790 mm (Designed for relaxed riding posture)
• Ground Clearance: 170 mm
• Kerb Weight: 125.5 kg (Drum Variant) / 127.0 kg (Disc Variant)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 10 Litres

Price and Variants

The Hero Glamour X is offered in two distinct variants: Drum Brake and Disc Brake. Official listings indicate a starting ex-showroom price of approximately ₹88,517 in Delhi.

Buyers should expect the disc brake variant to carry a slight premium over the base drum model. This strategic pricing places the Glamour X directly in the crosshairs of aggressive rivals in the premium 125cc space, offering a strong feature-to-price ratio.

Launch and Availability

The motorcycle is officially listed on the Hero MotoCorp website, indicating immediate market availability. The company has outlined a streamlined digital purchasing process for modern buyers.

Customers can book the vehicle online, visit a local dealership within a week for inspection and documentation, and expect to pick up their new motorcycle in approximately 13 to 15 days.

Why It Matters for Buyers

For the everyday rider, the Glamour X offers a genuine upgrade in daily usability. The inclusion of ride modes means the motorcycle can be optimized for high-efficiency stop-and-go traffic or more aggressive highway overtakes.

Furthermore, safety additions like the Panic Brake Alert provide tangible real-world benefits on unpredictable city roads. The smart storage space also addresses a common pain point for commuters who need secure, quick access to their devices without installing bulky aftermarket luggage.

What Remains Unknown

While the specification sheet is comprehensive, a few practical questions remain for consumer research. Hero has not detailed exactly how the Cruise Control will function in the lower speed bands typical of 125cc riding.

Additionally, the real-world impact of the "Power" ride mode on the official 65 km/l mileage figure will only become clear once the motorcycle undergoes independent, long-term road testing.

AkulRide Verdict

The Hero Glamour X appears to be a genuinely important product that disrupts the traditional 125cc hierarchy. Instead of merely offering new paint schemes or minor visual tweaks, Hero has introduced functional, segment-leading technology.

If the SPRINT-EBT engine refinement and electronic features function as smoothly on the street as they look on paper, the Glamour X will be a formidable challenger to its primary rivals. It is a highly promising, strategically aggressive move from Hero MotoCorp that offers serious value to the modern Indian commuter.