Hero Xtreme 160R: Pros, Cons, Should You Buy One?
We list the positives and negatives so you can decide if the Xtreme 160R is actually worth buying
We list the positives and negatives so you can decide if the Xtreme 160R is actually worth buying
We recently test rode the Xtreme 160R, Hero’s first attempt at the entry-level performance commuter space, and came back surprised. The bike has a lot going for it, but it isn’t perfect. So if you’re looking to buy the Xtreme 160R, we suggest you take a look at the bike’s strengths and shortcomings.
The Pros
Superb Suspension Setup
The bike's suspension setup gobbles up uneven roads without feeling nervous or sloppy. Simply put, its well-tuned setup feels soft but does not bottom out easily.
Punchy Performance
The Xtreme's two-valve motor offers most of its performance in low- to mid-range revs i.e. 3000rpm to 6000rpm, translating in a very usable powerband in the city. Not having to shift gears much means the motor works more effectively, offering fantastic city fuel-efficiency. It’s also extremely refined.
Fun and Light Handling
The Xtreme is most impressive in the handling department. It feels light and nimble, especially in city traffic. A shorter wheelbase and light kerb weight means the Xtreme responds well to the slightest input on the handlebar. In the corners, the 160R feels eager but not twitchy in any way.
All-LED Lighting
The Xtreme 160R is the only bike in its segment to feature a full-LED lighting setup. The low beam on the headlamp is bright and offers a wide spread but the high beam, rather than lighting up the road ahead, is focussed higher.
The Cons
Lack of Top-end Performance
Unfortunately, the Xtreme 160R struggles at the top-end, taking its own sweet time to reach triple-digit speeds. So if you're out on the highway, you would have to plan overtakes beforehand. The meat of the power lies in between 4000rpm and 6500rpm after which power tapers off.
Instrument Cluster Misses Out on Key Features
The digital console on the Xtreme 160R looks neat with legible fonts. While it reads out information like a tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer and trip meter it misses out on gear position and range indicators.
Soft Seat is Uncomfortable For Longer Rides
The bike's soft-cushioned seat is spacious enough for the rider, but could get a bit uncomfortable during longer rides. Due to the bike's compact dimensions, the pillion seat is a tad smaller. Pillions will be perched at the tip of the seat and may have to stretch out to hold on to the integrated grab handles.
Should You Buy One?
The Xtreme 160R ticks all the right boxes. It looks fantastic, is feature packed, gets a torquey motor, and also rides and handles well. Add in a price tag of Rs 99,950 (ex-showroom), and it undercuts most of its rivals making it an excellent proposition.
Hero Xtreme 160R User Reviews
- Hero Xtreme stealth edition dual discI recently tried hero Xtreme 160r stealth edition for my daily city ride and what stood out immediately was the puncy and low end performance that make stop and go traffic feel effortless, the gear shift are predictible, the bike feel planted and the start and tell feature is surprisingly convenient when you are in rush.Read More1
- My Hero bikeIt is an awesome bike. Good colour combination, good engine, great pickup and a good mileage. Comfortable while riding makes it a great bike for day to day commute. It is an awesome bike in any way you look at it. It is also low maintenance so you wouldn't need to worry about servicing very often. I had a great time riding it for more than 2 years.Read More1
- Totally worth for money .Over and all Hero is a good choice for me my whole family have a Bikes of hero. They keep the basic things in mind and make a bike which I feel a a good for a rider. I would be very thankful to Hero for the bike they have made special for 160. I did a ride to Nagpur to ladakh and it was like a 160 cc bike cant do that but unfortunately I did . It was like impossible to possible. The whole credit goes to Hero how bike has been designed and the speed mileage . It feels like no problem even the off-roading also feel like I am sitting in a 4-5 Lakhs bike. Heads off to Hero again. Yes absolutely this bike is like a heaven for middle class people the style, the looks and many more totally worth for the value of the bike. I would always recommend this bike for everyone. There is no negative point first of all . And yeah I would love to express more but yeah that's all for now.Read More3 1
- Hero bikes are the Best my fav.I chose the Hero Xtreme 160R because it offers a perfect mix of power, comfort, and style. Its smooth to ride in city traffic, handles well on highways, and is easy to maintain. I have one previous model of 2011 already. Ride has been smooth and enjoyable so far. The bike feels light, handles traffic easily, and stays stable on highways. Power delivery is clean, braking feels confident, and comfort is good for daily rides. Yes, I would recommend it. The bike is comfortable, easy to ride, and performs well in daily use. It looks good, gives decent mileage, and is reliable for both city and highway riding. Service cost is good and pocket friendly.Read More2 3
- Excellent Bike, A good Choice for Long Ride EnjoyHero Xtreme 160 R gave me a thrilling Long Drive experience with its 160 cc Engine and smooth Acceleration up to max 110 Kmph and No vibrations at cruising speeds; It is perfect for Hyderabad roads. Suspension absorbs potholes well, offered me very comfort. However, it gave me maximum 43 km per 1 ltr petrol. Its breaking system is wonderful, even in an emergency Stops. It's highly recommended for Fun and Practical Ownership.Read More2 4