Hero Honda Karizma ZMR

It was a close call between R15 and ZMR . at last the TOURER part of mind won and I opted for a Black ZMR 2011 model.

The things I love about ZMR -

1. Looks - Def a plus point. though looks are a personal perspective at least 7 out of 10 neutral people would agree that ZMR has got good looks if not killer looks like a Ninja.

   
   




2. Mileage - Having 223cc at its heart maintained by PGMFI the mileage is well taken care off. In Pune traffic it returns be around 44 kmpl and on highways in speed range upto 90 around 50 kmpl and top speed of 132 kmph around 35-38 kmpl.

   
   




3. Pick-up - FI makes the throttle response crisp and awesome. The bike flies from any gear and this helps in touring.

   
   




4. Comfort - Very good riding position in terms of back, wrist and legs. Even after riding for 700+ kms at the end of the day you are not dead drop.

   
   




5. Engine - The engine is relaxed and smooth. One needs to understand that it is a long stroke engine and an under powered one. It is meant for cursing and not ripping at higher rpm. Cruise on it and feel the difference.

   
   




6. Braking - In Indian bikes the best I would say. Personally I don’t consider R15 CBR and Ninja as Indian Bikes.

   
   




7. Handling - Good in case of Panic breaking and tarmac road. The weight has to be balanced carefully in case of Off-roading.

   
   




8. Off-roading - I feel that off-loading capabilities depend on rider to rider. ZMR has sufficient ground clearance. I have rode my ZMR on sand, rann of kutch, potholes, mud, stream crossings and it has never failed me. Can’t stop from mentioning that a NInja was my companion and he also rode unscathed.

   
   




9. Maintenance - TImely oil change and chain cleaning is what I have done.

   
   




10. Top-speed:- ZMR has the most accurate speedo in all the bikes in India, This includes R15, Ninja, CBR, pulsar etc. clocked 133 kmph on speed and GPS. I think it is good enough top speed for a cruiser.

    
    

Cons -

1. Tyres - the rear tyre is a big let off. Definitely something better is required. May be MRF Vyde in 18" size.

   
   




2. RVM - the RVM mount is not stable and the mirrors are not collapsible correctly.

   
   




3. Spares - Spares availability is a issue even in Pune. But that is the case even with Honda and Yamaha.

   
   




4. Headlights - Stock headlight is insufficient on highways and dark places.

   
   

Conclusion -

In less than 1.5 Lac budget I would say this is the best cruiser. Please follow the break-in period rules and the enjoy this beauty.