My love story with my ‘ZMA started about 1½ years back. I was looking for a bike, but didn’t have a particular choice . I checked out the H UNICORN, B PULSAR 180, but coudnt make up my mind. That’s when my friend who was going to U.S said that he was selling his ‘ZMA. It was a 2004 model. At that time, he had just ridden it for 3000 kms. One ride & a week later, the keys were in my pocket and she was in my driveway.
My requirements from a bike is quite minimal. I use my bike only on weekends . I know, it’s a shame when you have such a good bike. I wanted one just to enjoy the freedom, a bike provides you. Mileage was not a prerequisite, looks and reliability were paramount. And it is in these two areas that ZMA excels in. This review is about the amazing ownership experience that I have enjoyed.
LOOKS & DESIGN
The ZMA in my view is one of the best looking, bike money can buy you today in India. PERIOD. From the front to the rear tyre, it looks awesome. It can best be viewed from the front 3 quarters. The only small grouse is that, for the whole profile, the original rear tyre could have been a little broader.
And that just what I did, after I brought her, I ditched the original 100 section tyre to a broader 120 section . I could have fitted a broader tyre but I didn’t want to upset the handling. The advice I would like to give to all the bikers is – Don’t fit too broad tyres on your bike. It’ll do more harm than good.
EGRONOMICS
The egro of this bike is spot on. What I particularly like is the tank recess to fit your thighs in. I’m 5.11” and fitting my thighs was a problem I found in the Pulsar. The handlebar to seat ratio is perfect. Although I did take her for rides more than 2-3 hours, fatigue never set in.
Even the pillion never complained, thanks to the rear suspension. The suspension has the right balance between handling & ride comfort. But there is scope for improvement. The switchgear in my bike gets jammed easily. I don’t know if it’s a problem with all ZMA’S or just my bike. It’s not grave but an issue nevertheless.
ENGINE & PERFORMANCE
I would like to believe that HH doesn’t put oil in their engine, they put butter! It’s that smooth. While all the other bikes make a racket @ 80 kmph, the stress free way she reaches 80kmph is simply amazing. I’m in love with the refinement of this engine. Although I’m not a high speed biker, I like the fact that my bike is capable of higher speeds.
MILEAGE
As mentioned earlier, I’m not a high speed biker & the mileage I get, reflects this. I maintain correct tyre pressure on both tyres, get her serviced every 1000 kms. I get a mileage of about 38 kpl in city & about 42-44 kpl on the highway. For the engine size & speed she’s capable of, I think the mileage is pretty good.
IMPROVEMENTS
Although I love my bike there are some things that I would like HERO HONDA to change:-
Ø The headlights are quite poor when compared to the competition. The beam spread is just not good enough. I think the best headlights are that of the Pulsar 220 & Avenger.
Ø The other thing to be incorporated ASAP are the rear disk brakes. As they say – POWER IS NOT JUST ABOUT GOING 0-100 IN 5 SECONDS BUT ALSO ABOUT 100-0 IN 5 SECONDS.
My bike is now at 7000 kms. I am thinking of changing my steed. I’m thinking of the Bullet Thunderbird, but haven’t finalized anything. Do send in your suggessions.