Street SMART

The new Hero Glamour X promises the most tech-packed experience in its segment. But are these features genuinely useful or just gimmicks?

- WORDS AAKASH S PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY HIYAN CHAUHAN

Companies usually load their most expensive, top-of-the-line products with cutting-edge features. It makes sense that a cool new feature debuts in the premium offering before trickling down to more affordable models. But Hero MotoCorp seems to have flipped that script. The Indian automaker has launched a new avatar of the Glamour, the Glamour X, with cruise control - a feature usually reserved for motorcycles with much bigger engines and even bigger price tags. And that's not all - the bike also packs in other tech features, which aim to enhance its appeal for today's riders. But how effective are these features at making the Glamour X a smart buy? Let's find out.

BOLDER & SMARTER

Hero has given the Glamour a proper makeover to justify the 'X' in its name. It now comes with an all-LED lighting setup, featuring a redesigned headlamp and taillamp. These new units look noticeably sharper than those on the standard Glamour. The sleek LED indicators are a particularly nice touch, and the rear ones double as panic braking signals - a useful safety feature, for sure. The fuel tank still holds 10 litres, but it now gets extended shrouds that will instantly remind you of the older Hero Hunk.

The seat cushion, though fairly long and wide, can become uncomfortable over time. Hero would do well to introduce a more supportive seat on this bike. In terms of design, the only area that feels slightly off is the rear tyre, which looks a touch too skinny against the bike's wide tail section. On the plus side, overall fit and finish levels are solid.