Rebirth of an Icon: Now with 25.5 PS & 40 kmpl!
Hero MotoCorp has resurrected the legendary Karizma nameplate with the Karizma XMR 210 – a fire-breathing 210cc sportbike that blends track DNA with everyday practicality. Priced at ₹1.79 lakh, this liquid-cooled beast promises 25.5 PS power while still delivering 40-45 kmpl mileage. But does it live up to the Karizma legacy? Let’s find out.
2025 Karizma XMR 210: Key Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 210cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC |
| Power | 25.5 PS @ 9250 RPM |
| Torque | 20.4 Nm @ 7250 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slipper clutch |
| Frame | Trellis chassis |
| Brakes | Dual-channel ABS |
| Mileage | 40-45 kmpl (tested) |
| Top Speed | 130+ kmph |
Rivals: Yamaha R15 V4, Bajaj Pulsar RS200
5 Reasons It’s More Than Just Nostalgia
- Track-Ready Engine – The liquid-cooled mill redlines at 10,500 RPM with a thrilling exhaust note
- Slipper Clutch – Hard downshifts won’t lock the rear wheel
- Full-LED Lighting – Projector headlamps with aggressive DRLs
- Bluetooth Connectivity – Turn-by-turn navigation on the digital console
- Comfortable Ergonomics – Less aggressive than R15, better for daily use
Real-World Performance
City Riding:
Light clutch action (surprisingly manageable)
40+ kmpl even in bumper-to-bumper traffic
Upright posture reduces wrist strain
Highway Cruising:
100 kmph feels rock-solid stable
6th gear makes 80-100 kmph effortless
Wind blast noticeable post 110 kmph
Gripes:
- Rear monoshock could be plusher
- Switchgear feels budget-grade
Price & Variants
- Single variant: ₹1.79 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Colors:
- Karizma Yellow (heritage scheme)
- Stealth Black
- Turbo Red
On-road: ~₹2.05 lakh (varies by state)
Who Should Buy It?
90s kids who grew up idolizing the original Karizma
Young professionals wanting a sporty daily rider
Budget track enthusiasts (that trellis frame begs to be leaned)
Skip If —
You need pillion comfort (seat’s cramped)
You’re a mileage freak (Apache RTR 200 gives 50+ kmpl)
FAQs
Q: How does it compare to R15 V4?
A: More torque, better city manners, but less track-focused
Q: Service costs?
A: ~₹2,500/year (Hero’s widespread network helps)
Q: Waiting period?
A: 3-4 weeks currently
Q: Tubeless tires?
A: Yes, 17-inch alloys with grippy MRF rubber
Q: Warranty?
A: 3 years standard
Verdict: Worthy of the Karizma Badge?
Hero’s nailed the formula – the Karizma XMR 210 delivers 90% of an R15’s thrill at 80% of the price. While hardcore enthusiasts might miss the raw edge of the original carbureted Karizma, this new-gen iteration makes performance accessible to regular riders.
Rating: 4.5/5
Best For: Those who want sportbike kicks without backbreaking ergonomics
Test ride one this weekend – that exhaust note alone is worth it!
Would you pick this over the R15? Sound off in comments!
