*Please note that the below mentioned review and points are to my limit of experience, learning and my style of writing.
*I got Hunk from Sai Motors, Bangalore in Sep 2008. Till date(Sep 2009) I have done almost 7100 km.
Why Hero Honda?
1) To my knowledge and reviews from old friends HH is best and experienced bike making company(in India). 2) HH has got wide spread dealers / service stations hence reliable 3) Spare parts are easily available. 4) Personally I love the brand.(Though I respect Bajaj because of the very reliable scooter making company)
I remember how tough the Bajaj Super scooter was.(I learnt riding 2 wheeler from my dad on his Bajaj Super scooter in late 1990s). Later my dad bought Bajaj Legend(first 4-stroke scooter in India, now out of production). Even today its running without any problem. The old Bajaj Super we had is now used by one of my uncles in village.
I am mentioning all these to say Bajaj is excellent in scooter making; and HH in bikes.
Experience with my Hunk:
I love it because:
1) Sexy looks – couple of times I had unknown people asking me about the bike; showing interest etc. You should observe the gap in the rear wheel and the rear seat which makes more attractive apart from its muscles. If I compare with CBZ Xtreme(which has for the same engine of Hunk), the silencer pipe is more inclined upwards which gives Hunk a sporty look as well as protects water to get in during flood. The name Hunk on the fuel tank is written in Steel.(it was first in 150cc segment); recently Pulsar 1500cc and Unicorn also did it.
The red shade in the speedometer also makes it different from other bikes.
2) Smooth Engine – The engine is very smooth. I was really happy to observe the smooth behavior of engine after crossing 100 km/hr. I went till 110 speed and had to come down as my wife was with me(for safety). She loves speed! I guess it can reach 120.
3) Nice throttle response – I have observed a good acceleration in 4th and 5th gear with keeping the throttle in same tune. The bike keeps gaining speed at the same point of accelerator. I am not sure if other bikes response in same manner. Usually we have a tendency to move the throttle deeper then required to gain a speed which can also be done with lesser movement of accelerator. I guess this saves fuel.
3) Good Control – I experienced few instances where I had to come to zero speed from 60 or above in a short time. The brakes work great with a nice balance.
4) Decent mileage – I am getting 45-47 kmpl in city with normal petrol. I don’t expect a better mileage from 150cc segment.
Where Hunk could be better:
1) Gear shift – it little locking
2) Horn – is like 100cc bikes. I like Pulsar’s horn
3) Trip meter – could be electronic or battery triggered. If you are calculating your trip distance or measuring mileage, there are chances that someone can reset the meter by pushing the knob when your bike is parked in a common place.
Another issue is starting the bike in cold mornings or after few days of non-usage.(Tips – try the self start if it doesn’t start after 10 kicks; it surprisingly works)
My personal tips for bike’s longer life, performance, less pollution and safety:
1) Keep the engine on idle run for 2-3 min when you start your day. It helps the engine oil to circulate before you make the engine to move the vehicle
2) Keep tuning your bike periodically(servicing) with oil change, whenever needed
3) Try not to cross 4100 rpm for first 1000 km
4) Check tyre’s air pressure regularly
5) Compare the speed with RPM. Eg. I get speed of 70 at 5600 rpm. That will give you an idea of engine’s performance / tyre pressure or wheel friction
6) To my guess, one can get best mileage at a speed 50-55 km/hr
7) Switch off the engine when in red traffic signal. Let us save fuel for the coming generation
8) Turn fuel knob off when keeping your bike for days / weeks without using. Saves accidental fuel leakage
9) Use high beam / low beam in headlight accordingly, use indicators in all turnings
10) And-WEAR Helmet and make your pillion rider too to WEAR helmet and follow traffic rules. They are made for your safety
I fixed remote locking from the dealer, with Rs.1800 extra in total price. Apart from locking remotely(with high beep sound), the engine can be started / off remotely. Its fun!
Enjoy and take care of your bike