It has been a long time since Hero Honda launched the first CBZ featuring a 156.7 cc engine...... and after a long hiatus HH once again produced a bike worthy of the CBZ name in CBZ Xtreme in 2006/07, but the looks of the bike let it down big time despite of the fact that the engine was powerful. Finally Hero honda have taken care of the finer details of the bike and have designed a great bike in the 2011 CBZ Xtreme.
Coming to my own CBZ Xtreme, I’ve had it for about 1 year now and completed 14500 kms, yeah I ride a lot, a bit too much may be. My primary requirements were the bike should have good powertrain and should be handling nimbly, I knew that you cant expect 65-70 fuel economy from a fast 150cc bike, so I did not worry about it that much, CBZ fit my bill perfecty. Since I am a tall guy(6’4") and well built the bike suited me perfectly.
Looks: The first thing that strikes you is the looks. The bike looks a big bike. The indicators are given clear lens and have been integrated in the fairing, that looks nice and this time HH has made the pilot lamp look more stylish than the earlier CBZ.
The instrument cluster is digital and analog and the blue lit backlight is cool All the usual details are available except I would have liked a low oil indicator and an engine kill switch that is missing. The tank shrouds look sharp and the rear end of the bike looks great, kinda high end compared to other 150cc bikes. A new secure ignition system has been added, which I think is a smart move and sets apart the styling of this bike from others.
Performance and handling: Typical Hero Honda, nothing short on performance, The bike is meant for riding at high speeds, I dont like to ride slowly so the performance of this is exactly what I expected. As all know this uses a honda engine and hence you dont need to worry much. It is very reliable and doesn’t give in at high speeds. The engine has a superb engine note. I personally pay close attention to the engine note every time I rev up. Though on paper this bike is heavy(148 kg) while riding it handles like a dream. The knee recesses fit perfectly and there is no pressure on the wrists while braking and the sitting posture is comfortable.The suspension is GRS hence the ride is more plushy.
The rear set foot pegs bring out the sporty character of the bike and also the clip ons. Coming to brakes the disc brakes are good and stop the bike efficiently without much skidding. MRF tyres offer great traction even in the wet, however that depends on one’s riding style.
Fuel economy: 45-50 KMPL is what I got and pretty satisfied and again it varies with each rider. Since it is more powerful a great fuel economy cant be expected.
Overall a great bike that puts a smile on your face ever ytime you ride. Take care of the bike and the bike will return the favors......... safe biking everyone