The design of the Karizma XMR is undoubtedly sporty and aggressive, reflecting a modern take on the classic Karizma look. It features sharp lines and creases, a muscular fuel tank, and full fairing, giving it a bold and eye-catching appearance. The split-seat design and upswept tail section further emphasize its sporty persona. Although equipped with clip-on handlebars, the riding posture is not too aggressive, making it comfortable for both daily commutes and weekend rides.

The LED headlights and well-placed body graphics enhance the premium feel of the bike, but certain elements, like the inconsistent panel gaps and frame welds, detract from its overall build quality. The bike runs on 17-inch alloy wheels, with tubeless tires, and features a 37 mm telescopic front fork and monoshock rear suspension. Overall, the Karizma XMR has an attractive and well-balanced design that will appeal to a wide range of riders

At the heart of the Hero Karizma XMR is an all-new 210 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-valve DOHC engine, which produces 25.15 bhp at 9250 rpm and 20.4 Nm of torque at 7250 rpm. This engine is Hero’s first liquid-cooled unit, and it delivers impressive refinement and performance. The power delivery is smooth, and the engine feels free-revving, pulling comfortably up to 9500 rpm without losing breath.

Acceleration is brisk, and in city traffic, the Karizma XMR feels nimble and easy to handle. The engine’s wide torque spread allows for relaxed riding, even in higher gears. The bike can cruise in sixth gear at low speeds as low as 40 km/h, making it great for city commutes. While the engine is refined, riders will notice a bit of vibration at higher RPMs, which is typical for small single-cylinder engines.

The 6-speed gearbox comes equipped with a slip and assist clutch, making gear shifts light and easy, especially in traffic. However, the shifts could have been crisper, as the gear changes feel slightly soft. Overall, the performance is well-suited for both novice and experienced riders

The Karizma XMR impresses with its balanced ride quality. The suspension setup is tuned between soft and firm, ensuring that the bike glides over most road imperfections without feeling too stiff. This makes it comfortable for both city rides and longer highway trips. The monoshock rear suspension comes with 6-step pre-load adjustment, allowing riders to fine-tune the ride based on their preferences.

The bike’s handling is also commendable, thanks to its light kerb weight of 163.5 kg. The XMR feels agile and well-planted when taking turns or cornering, and its low center of gravity adds to its stability. Although our first ride was brief, the Karizma XMR proved to be a capable handler, both in traffic and on open roads

Despite its sporty looks, the Karizma XMR is designed with comfort in mind. The clip-on handlebars offer a slightly aggressive riding posture, but it’s not as committed as you’d find on track-focused bikes. The seat height of 810 mm makes it accessible for most riders, and the split-seat design provides adequate support for both the rider and pillion. The footpeg position is designed for a comfortable, semi-aggressive posture, suitable for both city and touring duties.

On longer rides, the windshield can be adjusted to reduce wind buffeting, though its effectiveness during high-speed rides remains to be seen. Overall, the ergonomics of the bike strike a good balance between comfort and sportiness