2026 Hero Glamour X 125 OBD-IIB Review: ₹10,000 Price Drop Makes It India’s Best Value Commuter

Hero’s Glamour X 125 just became significantly more affordable with a massive GST-related price reduction. Here’s everything you need to know about this feature-packed family bike.

In a market where motorcycle prices typically climb year after year, Hero MotoCorp has delivered welcome news for budget-conscious buyers. The 2026 Hero Glamour X 125 has seen a substantial price reduction of approximately ₹8,000 ex-showroom (₹10,000 on-road), making it one of the most value-packed 125cc commuters in India.

But price cuts alone don’t tell the full story. The Glamour X 125 comes loaded with segment-first features including cruise control, ride-by-wire technology, and even a kickstart backup—making it a compelling choice for families seeking reliable, feature-rich transportation.

Let’s dive deep into what makes this bike special, whether the price drop makes it a must-buy, and how it stacks up against the competition.

Quick Overview

Launch Price: ₹92,186 ex-showroom (after GST reduction)
Previous Price: ₹99,999 ex-showroom
Price Reduction: ~₹8,000 ex-showroom | ~₹10,000 on-road
On-Road Price (Kolkata): ₹1,11,000 (approximately)

Key Highlights:

• Segment-first cruise control in a 125cc bike
• Ride-by-wire technology with three riding modes
• Kickstart backup despite electronic throttle
• Color LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity
• i3S start-stop technology for fuel efficiency
• X-Tec air-cooled engine with 11.55 PS power
• Five color options on disc variant
• 60-65 kmpl fuel efficiency claimed

Major Drawback: No ABS (yet) – CBS only

Pricing Breakdown: The GST Impact

Price Changes Explained

Pre-GST Summit Pricing:

• Ex-Showroom: ₹99,999
• On-Road (Kolkata): ₹1,21,000 approximately

Post-GST Summit Pricing:

• Ex-Showroom: ₹92,186
• On-Road (Kolkata): ₹1,11,000 approximately

Savings:

• Ex-Showroom Reduction: ₹7,813 (~₹8,000)
• On-Road Reduction: ₹10,000 approximately

Why The Price Drop?

The recent GST rate adjustments have provided relief across the two-wheeler industry. The ₹8,000 ex-showroom reduction translates to even greater on-road savings when registration, insurance, and other charges are factored in.

Regional Price Variance:

On-road prices will vary by state based on:

• State-specific road tax rates
• Registration charges
• Insurance premiums
• Dealer handling fees

Example: The ₹1,11,000 on-road price mentioned applies specifically to Kolkata. Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other metros will have slightly different pricing.

Variants & Colour Options

Two Variants Available

1. Drum Brake Variant (Base)

• Front: 240mm disc
• Rear: 130mm drum
• Limited color options

2. Disc Brake Variant (Top-End)

• Front: 240mm disc
• Rear: 130mm drum (still drum, despite being “disc variant”)
• Five color options available

Color Palette (Disc Variant)

The top-end disc variant offers five distinctive colors:

1. Black with Teal Blue (featured in review) – Rare market presence
2. Black with Pearl Red – Bold, sporty appeal
3. Candy Blazing Red – Eye-catching vibrant finish
4. Matt Metallic Silver – Sophisticated, understated
5. Metallic Nexus Blue – Premium blue finish

Most Unique: The Black with Teal Blue combination is rarely seen on roads, offering exclusivity for buyers who want to stand out.

Design & Build Quality

Front End: Modern LED Setup

Headlight System:

• All-LED reflector-based setup – No halogen bulbs
• H-shaped LED DRL – Lights up immediately when ignition is on
• Main headlight – Activates only when engine starts
• Upper section – High beam operation
• Lower section – Low beam operation

Light Throw Performance:

• Adequate for city riding
• Not exceptionally bright compared to segment leaders
• Sufficient for daily commuting needs

Additional Lighting:

• Flexible LED indicators with hazard system
• LED tail light in H-shape design
• LED rear indicators
• ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) – All indicators blink during panic braking

Body & Panels

Frame & Construction:

• Diamond-type frame – Proven durability
• Metal fuel tank – 10-liter capacity (not plastic)
• Dual-panel finish on front fender (fiber with dual-tone)
• Fully tinted large windscreen – Longer than standard but still somewhat flexible

Build Quality Observations:

• Solid overall construction
• Premium feel despite budget positioning
• Dual-tone stickering on alloy wheels enhances aesthetics
• Chrome finishing throughout adds visual appeal

Engine & Performance

X-Tec 124.7cc Engine Specifications

Engine Details:

The X-Tec Advantage: Advanced Electronic Ride Assist Technology

What is X-Tec?

X-Tec (Advanced Electronic Ride Assist Technology) is Hero’s innovative system that combines ride-by-wire throttle with a kickstart backup—something virtually unheard of in the industry.

Why This Matters:

Ride-by-wire typically means no kickstart (fully electronic throttle requires battery power). Hero’s X-Tec solves this elegantly:

✅ Battery dead? Use the kickstart
✅ Electronic issues? Mechanical backup available
✅ Remote area breakdown? Single-kick start capability

First-time Innovation: This appears to be the first bike combining ride-by-wire technology with kickstart functionality, offering best-of-both-worlds reliability.

Performance Characteristics

Real-World Performance:

The 11.55 PS and 10.4 Nm output delivers:

• Smooth, linear power delivery
• Adequate acceleration for city commuting
• Highway cruising capability (though not its strength)
• Relaxed family-friendly character

Not a Performance Bike:

The Glamour X prioritizes:

• Fuel efficiency over outright speed
• Reliability over thrilling performance
• Comfort over aggressive riding dynamics

Fuel Efficiency: 60-65 KMPL Reality

Claimed Mileage

Official Claims: 60-65 kmpl

Real-World Expectations

Factors Affecting Mileage:

✅ i3S start-stop – Saves fuel at traffic lights
✅ Eco riding mode – Optimizes fuel delivery
✅ Lightweight construction – 127kg kerb weight
✅ Air-cooled engine – Simpler, efficient design
✅ E20 fuel compatible – Ethanol-blended fuel support

Realistic Estimates:

• City riding: 55-60 kmpl (with traffic)
• Highway cruising: 60-65 kmpl (steady speeds)
• Mixed conditions: 57-62 kmpl average
• Aggressive riding: 50-55 kmpl

10-Liter Fuel Tank Range:

• Conservative estimate: 550-600 km per tank
• Optimistic estimate: 600-650 km per tank

Segment-First Features: The Technology Edge

1. Cruise Control in a 125cc Bike

Industry First:

The Glamour X 125 is the first 125cc motorcycle in India to offer cruise control—a feature typically reserved for premium bikes.

How It Works:

• Dedicated cruise control button on left switchgear
• Activate at desired speed (typically above 40 km/h)
• Maintains speed without throttle input
• Deactivates with clutch, brake, or manual override

Practical Benefits:

• Highway comfort – Reduces wrist fatigue on long rides
• Fuel consistency – Maintains optimal speed for efficiency
• Relaxed cruising – Makes intercity trips more comfortable

2. Ride-By-Wire with Three Riding Modes

What is Ride-By-Wire?

Electronic throttle control replaces traditional cable-operated throttle, offering:

• Precise fuel mapping
• Customizable power delivery
• Better fuel efficiency
• Smoother throttle response

Three Riding Modes:

1. Power Mode

• Most aggressive throttle response
• Instant acceleration
• Best for quick overtakes or spirited riding
• Higher fuel consumption

2. Road Mode

• Balanced throttle response
• Neither too aggressive nor too linear
• Ideal for mixed city-highway riding
• Moderate fuel efficiency

3. Eco Mode

• Linear, gentle power delivery
• Optimized for maximum fuel efficiency
• Best for stop-and-go city traffic
• Maximizes range

Mode Selection: Accessible via dedicated switch on left switchgear, changes reflected on LCD display.

3. i3S (Idle Stop-Start System)

Fuel-Saving Technology:

The i3S system automatically:

• Shuts off engine after idle for few seconds at traffic lights
• Restarts instantly with clutch engagement or throttle input
• Saves fuel during extended city traffic stops

Real-World Impact:

• 5-10% fuel savings in heavy traffic conditions
• Reduces emissions during idle
• Can be toggled on/off via menu

i3S Badge: Prominently displayed on side panel with chrome accenting.

4. Bluetooth Connectivity

Connected Features:

The color LCD instrument cluster pairs with smartphones for:

✅ Turn-by-turn navigation – Displayed on meter console
✅ Call alerts – Incoming call notifications
✅ Message alerts – SMS notifications
✅ Missed call alerts – Stay informed without checking phone

Practical Advantage:

Reduces need to check phone while riding, improving safety and convenience for navigation and communication.

Instrument Cluster: Feature-Packed Display

Color LCD Panel (Not TFT)

Display Type: Color LCD (same as recently launched Hero Xtreme 125)

Note: This is not a TFT display – it’s a color LCD panel. TFT offers better viewing angles and brightness, but LCD keeps costs reasonable while delivering good visibility.

Information Display

Core Readouts:

✅ Speedometer – Digital speed display
✅ Tachometer – RPM gauge for gear optimization
✅ Gear position indicator – Current gear displayed
✅ Fuel bar – Fuel level indication
✅ Range indicator – Distance to empty

Trip Computer:

✅ Odometer – Total distance traveled
✅ Trip A – Trip distance, trip mileage
✅ Trip B – Secondary trip with mileage
✅ Average fuel economy – Overall efficiency
✅ Real-time mileage (RTMi) – Instant fuel consumption

Additional Functions:

✅ Clock – Time display
✅ Date – Calendar function
✅ Riding mode indicator – Current mode (Power/Road/Eco)
✅ i3S status – On/off indication

Tell-Tale Lights

Warning & Status Indicators:

✅ Neutral indicator (green)
✅ Engine malfunction warning
✅ Side stand indicator
✅ Reserve fuel warning
✅ High beam indicator (blue)
✅ Turn signal indicators

Verdict: Fully feature-loaded instrument cluster that rivals bikes costing significantly more.

Chassis, Suspension & Brakes

Suspension Setup

Front Suspension:

• 30mm telescopic forks – Standard setup
• Adequate travel for Indian road conditions
• Reasonable comfort over bumps

Rear Suspension:

• Twin hydraulic shock absorbers
• 5-step preload adjustable – Customize for load/rider weight
• Pipe swingarm – Sturdy construction

Ride Quality:

✅ Comfortable for daily commuting
✅ Handles potholes reasonably well
✅ Not plush but adequate for segment
✅ Better with preload adjusted correctly

Braking System: CBS Only (No ABS Yet)

Current Configuration:

Front Brake:

• 240mm disc with Endurance caliper
• Good stopping power
• Progressive feel

Rear Brake:

• 130mm drum brake
• Combined Braking System (CBS)

What is CBS?

When you apply the rear brake, the front brake also engages automatically (partial braking force). This improves stability during braking, especially for new riders.

The ABS Question:

⚠️ No ABS currently available – Not even on top variant
⚠️ ABS mandatory soon – Government regulations coming
⚠️ Future update expected – All bikes/scooters will get ABS

If You Want ABS Now: Consider the Hero Xtreme 125, which offers ABS.

Verdict: CBS is functional and safe, but ABS would be a significant upgrade for panic braking situations.

Wheels & Tires

Wheel Specifications:

Front:

• 18-inch alloy wheel with dual-tone stickering
• 80/100-18 tubeless tire (Euro Grip)

Rear:

• 18-inch alloy wheel
• 80/100-18 tubeless tire (Euro Grip)

Tire Performance:

✅ Decent grip in dry conditions
✅ Acceptable wet-weather performance
✅ Long-lasting for daily use
✅ Budget-friendly replacements available

Dimensions & Ergonomics

Key Measurements

Seating & Comfort

Single-Seat Setup:

Both base and top variants come with:

• Single-piece seat – Family bike configuration
• Spacious seating – Long, wide seat base
• Soft cushioning – Comfortable for extended rides
• Slightly thin padding – Could be plusher but adequate

Pillion Comfort:

✅ Grab rail – Single unit with Hero branding
✅ Adequate space – Room for average-sized pillion
✅ Footpegs – Fold-out design with rubber padding
✅ Saree guard – Standard fitment with ladies’ footrest

No Backrest: Unlike some commuters, there’s no passenger backrest—keeps design clean.

Handlebar & Controls

Handlebar Setup:

• Slightly wide handlebars – Comfortable riding position
• Upright ergonomics – Relaxed, commuter-friendly posture
• Easy reach – Suitable for riders 5’4″ to 6’0″

Left Switchgear:

✅ Cruise control activation
✅ Hazard light switch
✅ Mode selection switch
✅ High beam/low beam
✅ Pass button
✅ Turn indicator switch
✅ Horn button (single, decent sound)

Right Switchgear:

✅ Engine kill switch
✅ Start/stop button
✅ Instrument cluster toggle switches (2)

Additional Features:

✅ USB Type-C charging socket – Conveniently placed
✅ Decent clutch feel – Not too soft, not too hard

Practical Features & Accessories

Standard Equipment

Included from Factory:

✅ Fully covered chain – Reduced maintenance
✅ Main stand – Easy cleaning and maintenance
✅ Side stand – With engine cut-off sensor
✅ Kickstart – Backup starting method
✅ Reflectors – Both sides for visibility
✅ Saree guard – With ladies’ footrest

Exhaust System:

• Chrome-finished exhaust with heat shield
• Upper and lower heat protection
• Decent exhaust note (listen to video for sound)

Optional Accessories (As Shown)

⚠️ Crash guard – Aftermarket accessory (not standard)
⚠️ Specific mirrors – New design offered by Hero

Storage & Practicality

No Under-Seat Storage: Standard for this bike category

Key Storage:

• Basic Hero-branded key
• No remote locking
• Simple, reliable design

Exhaust Note & Character

Sound Profile

The Glamour X 125 produces a:

• Refined exhaust note – Not too loud, not too quiet
• Smooth idle – Minimal vibration
• Civilized character – Family-friendly sound level

Not Sporty: Don’t expect an aggressive exhaust note—this is a refined family commuter prioritizing civility over aural excitement.

Who Should Buy the Hero Glamour X 125?

Perfect For:

✅ Daily commuters – Reliable, efficient city transport
✅ Family buyers – Safe, comfortable for all ages
✅ First-time riders – Easy to handle, forgiving character
✅ Budget-conscious – Excellent features for price
✅ Feature enthusiasts – Cruise control, ride-by-wire, Bluetooth
✅ Long-distance commuters – Good highway cruising with cruise control
✅ Fuel efficiency priority – 60-65 kmpl potential

Consider Alternatives If:

❌ You want ABS immediately (wait for update or choose Xtreme 125)
❌ You need aggressive performance (look at sportier 125cc options)
❌ You prioritize brand prestige (Honda, Bajaj offer alternatives)
❌ You want plush, premium feel (upgrade to higher displacement)
❌ You need off-road capability (this is purely a road bike)

Hero Glamour X 125 vs Competitors

vs Honda SP 125

Honda SP 125 Advantages:

• Honda brand reliability reputation
• Slightly sportier styling
• Refined engine

Glamour X 125 Advantages:

• Cruise control (Honda doesn’t have)
• Ride-by-wire (Honda doesn’t have)
• Lower price after reduction
• More features overall

Verdict: Glamour X offers better value with more features.

vs Bajaj Pulsar N125

Bajaj Pulsar N125 Advantages:

• More aggressive styling
• Sportier character
• Pulsar brand appeal

Glamour X 125 Advantages:

• Better fuel efficiency
• Cruise control
• More refined, family-friendly
• i3S system

Verdict: Choose based on preference—sporty (Pulsar) vs refined (Glamour).

vs TVS Raider 125

TVS Raider 125 Advantages:

• More performance-oriented
• Better styling (subjective)
• TVS reliability

Glamour X 125 Advantages:

• Cruise control
• Better fuel efficiency
• More features (Bluetooth, riding modes)
• Lower price

Verdict: Glamour X for features and efficiency; Raider for style and performance.

Maintenance & Running Costs

Expected Maintenance Schedule

Service Intervals:

• First service: 500-750 km
• Regular services: Every 3,000-4,000 km
• Annual service: Recommended

Maintenance Costs (Estimated):

• Regular service: ₹800-1,200
• Annual maintenance: ₹3,000-5,000
• Tire replacement: ₹2,500-3,500 (both)
• Battery: ₹1,500-2,000 (every 2-3 years)

Running Cost Breakdown (Monthly)

Assumptions: 1,500 km/month average

Fuel Costs:

• Mileage: 60 kmpl average
• Fuel needed: 25 liters/month
• Cost: ₹2,500-2,750 (@ ₹100-110/liter)

Maintenance:

• Monthly average: ₹300-400

Insurance:

• Annual: ₹5,000-7,000
• Monthly equivalent: ₹420-580

Total Monthly Cost: ₹3,220-3,730

Pros & Cons Summary

Strengths

✅ Segment-first cruise control in 125cc
✅ Ride-by-wire with 3 riding modes
✅ Kickstart backup despite electronic throttle
✅ Feature-loaded LCD with Bluetooth
✅ Excellent fuel efficiency (60-65 kmpl)
✅ i3S start-stop technology
✅ Massive ₹10,000 price reduction
✅ Metal 10L fuel tank (not plastic)
✅ USB Type-C charging
✅ E20 fuel compatible
✅ Proven Hero reliability
✅ 5 color options on top variant

Weaknesses

⚠️ No ABS (only CBS for now)
⚠️ Not TFT display (color LCD instead)
⚠️ Limited headlight throw (adequate but not excellent)
⚠️ Rear drum brake (not disc)
⚠️ Thin seat padding (comfortable but could be better)
⚠️ Not performance-oriented (purely commuter focus)
⚠️ Still relatively expensive (₹1.11 lakh on-road)

Final Verdict: Best Value 125cc Commuter?

The Value Proposition

At ₹1,11,000 On-Road (Kolkata):

The Hero Glamour X 125 offers:

• Segment-leading features (cruise control, ride-by-wire)
• Proven reliability (Hero’s service network)
• Excellent fuel efficiency (60-65 kmpl)
• Modern technology (Bluetooth, riding modes)
• ₹10,000 savings over previous pricing

Rating: 8.5/10

Deductions:

• No ABS (-0.5)
• Could have better headlight (-0.5)
• Rear should be disc brake (-0.5)

Excellence:

• Feature set unmatched in segment
• Genuine innovation (cruise control in 125cc!)
• Exceptional value after price reduction

Should You Buy It?

Yes, if:

• You prioritize features and technology
• Fuel efficiency is paramount
• You want cruise control for highway comfort
• You appreciate Hero’s service network
• The ₹10,000 discount makes it attractive

Wait if:

• ABS is non-negotiable (update coming soon)
• You want more aggressive performance
• You prefer sportier styling
• You can stretch budget to 150cc+ bikes

The Bottom Line

The 2026 Hero Glamour X 125 transforms from “good commuter” to “exceptional value” with the ₹10,000 price reduction. Its segment-first features (cruise control, ride-by-wire with kickstart backup) make it genuinely innovative, not just iterative.

For ₹1,11,000 on-road, you’re getting technology and features that cost significantly more in higher-displacement bikes. The missing ABS is the only significant concern, but with mandatory ABS regulations approaching, an update is inevitable.

Recommendation: If you need a bike now and can live with CBS (which is perfectly safe with proper riding), the Glamour X 125 offers unbeatable value. If you can wait 3-6 months, the ABS-equipped version will be the complete package.

Technical Specifications

The Hero Glamour X 125 proves that innovation doesn’t always require premium pricing. With segment-first features at a newly reduced price, it’s compelling value for Indian families seeking reliable, feature-rich transportation.

Prices mentioned are approximate and may vary by location. Always confirm current pricing with your local Hero dealer.