Hero Karizma ZMR

Karizma ZMR is the upgraded version of the Hero’s own flagship model Karizma, launched back in 2009. The latest version was launched in 2013 with some cosmetic upgrades. The ongoing model is having a mixed review in terms of its cosmetic appeal but, Hero still manages to sold a good volume of Karizma in every month.



Engine
ZMR is powered by 223cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, fuel injected engine with Overhead Cam and oil cooler. The mill churns out a raw power of 20 bhp @ 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 19.7 Nm @ 6500 rpm. Top speed of this Karizma clocks to 129kmph which is incredibly fast for this large motorcycle. Hero uses Full Transisterized Ignition System in the engine. The new 16-bit ECU processor scans the engine environment through hi-tech sensors and delivers the optimum performance required for the bike. A 5-speed constant mesh gearbox is mated with this engine for optimum power transmission using a chain drive and wet multi plate clutch. Hero claims a non-stop 550km ride for this motorcycle with its enormous 15.5 litre fuel tank. The torque of this bike is increased a bit, which makes it easy going in crowded city traffics. As it is not a premium performance bike, usual vibrations and rattles rises as we par 100kmph mark.



Design & Looks
This has to be the most highlighting part of this bike. For many, the new ZMR looks much better than previous fatty Karizma. For others, the latest one has destroyed the iconic Karizma feel in the whole design and styling. But to be honest, the body styling and designs are slightly overdone with some unwanted outfits in front fascia and fenders of the bike. From the very first look, it resembles the legendary sportsbike EBR 1190RX with its vertically stacked twin headlamps and turn indicators within the head lamp assembly. In this model DRLs are placed above the turn indicators, which works by using specially integrated switch. Moreover, side panels of the bike have also been redone making it even nicer from the older model. The overall body proportions of the bike have been toned down heavily to enhance its look from the sides.

Features
The instrument cluster on the new ZMR is same as that of previous one. The big instrument cluster displays tons of details like time, fuel gauge, speedometer, tachometer and some feel good messages like “welcome” and “Good Bye”. This multi-functional display unit is not fashionable as we sees in other 250cc bikes. It has to be compact and more stylish. The new model still lacks the ‘kill switch’ button in its switch gear cluster, which is pretty bad. The previous model was known for its long distance touring, but the extra long bar ends does not suits for long touring and taking U-turn. Moreover, split seats, split rear grab rails, rectangular LED brake light with clear lens indicators make this bike more aggressive from the rear side. But the bike feels incomplete in some minor areas. The built quality of this bike is not upto the mark.



Chassis, suspension and Braking
The bike is built using tubular, diamond-type frame, which makes it agile and strong. Suspension system consists of telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers at the front and swing arm with 5 step adjustable shock absorber with GRS system is used at the rear side. The stopping force of the bike remains safe in the hands of 276mm disc brake at the front and 240mm drum brake at the rear.

Verdict
Hero MotoCorp has taken lots of effort to upgrade their flagship model. But all the efforts are done and dusted. It lacks the elements to pull a large crowd towards it. Hero has to learn many things from their arch rival Bajaj, as the key ingredient of their success lies only on the design and styling. A serious market study has to be done by Hero, before upgrading their models, especially the flagship. However, the current and previous Karizma lacks the appealing beauty and performance of the very first Karizma. The forthcoming HX250R seems to be promising and this would be their first model with new design strategies.