Engine and transmission
Apart from the cosmetics, the trusted Oil cooled 223cc Single cylinder SOHC mill has undergone some serious upgrade. It now produces 20BHP@8000rpm against the earlier 17.6BHP@7000rpm. It also turns a better torque of 19.7Nm@6500rpm. Though not as quick as the numbers suggest, it still manages brisk pace within the city thanks to the long stroker`s torque-y nature. Hit the highways and the 6th cog is sorely missed.
The ZMR still utilizes a 5 speed gear box which feels slightly notchy whereas the clutch feels a tad heavier than before. The engine isn`t as buttery smooth as before and feels slightly coarse, these traits can be attributed to the fact that it produces substantially more power than before. All in all, the ZMR still feels best while cruising between 100-110 kmph which remains safe yet fast enough for our road conditions. The claimed top speed is 129kmph and that ZMR achieves without much fuss. We did manage to get a glimpse of 134kmph at one brief moment during our run.
Kitna deti hai?
Coming to the best bit now and talking about the fuel efficiency, the numbers would put a mighty grin on any potential buyer of the ZMR. The real time fuel consumption steadily showed numbers upwards of 42 kmpl riding around 80-90kmph. Push the bike a bit more into the 3 digit territory and the fuel economy drops in the 30s. During our trip, the ZMR returned us an overall mileage of 46.8 kmpl which we believe is fantastic and easily the best any 200cc+ bike can return given the above mentioned speeds. This coupled with a sizeable 15.3 litre fuel tank gives the ZMR a fantastic range of over 600kms before you are forced to make a stop for refueling. It translates into a weekend overnight ride within 300kms (one way) on just one tank full!
Verdict
If your previous bike was a 150cc and you are looking at an upgrade, at around 1.05L (Ex-Showroom Mumbai) the ZMR remains a great buy. The reliable and highly frugal 223cc has enough grunt for highway jaunts and remains a torquey motor while riding within the confines of city roads as well. Even with a pillion, the ZMR offers a cushy ride quality and wont stress you out with aggressive riding positions as some of the other “sports” bikes available on the market.
Price as tested: Rs 1.04 lakh ex-showroom
nice review i love zmr
I think the new Zma has received harsh reviews regarding its design. It looks different and substantial in real world. And performance iis adequate , not exceptional. But enough I guess. Nice article. And some very beautiful pics.
And add beefed tank to the design….iron out those vibes
If Hero is hearing , its my request not to let the karizma die. Make the design bit more platable with a low set pillion seat. I recently rode one and conclude what a motorcycle it could have been with better thought. +ives are torquey touring friendly engine, nice fueling,efficient. -ives is only the styling.