Hero Passion Pro i3S

While the Splendor comes in a rather simple appearance to connect with the masses, the Hero Passion Pro i3S targets riders who look for some thrill and flair. The signature flowing design of the passion is taken a step ahead. The extension of the fuel tank is longer and muscular with a triple-tone graphical work and the lines seem more defined and pronounced those results in a sporty and stylish presence, for its category. The i3S badge is flaunted across the body. The headlamp has some modifications and Hero claims it is better, bigger and more illuminating. The tail lamp in this new bike has a U-shaped, upside-down layout. This new model has the i3S function toggle switch placed next to the cluster. It comes in four variants and five different shades of colours. The trip metre is digital and the speedometer has analogue functionality. The digital screen showcases the i3S function, odometer and fuel level.

The Passion Pro was facelifted a few years ago and back then it endowed its very own in-house made 109.1 cc unit that was only available in the Splendor iSmart 110. The story is a little different for the new model which is propelled by a 113-cc engine which is BS6 compliant like most new models. This unit is able to put out 9.15 hp power and a peak torque of 9.9 Nm. The peak horsepower was slightly dropped in this edition, while the torque has increased. The fuel-injected unit is pretty punchy and smooth which can get the bike up 60 kmph in only 7.21 sec and around 80 kmph in only 14.9 sec. The figures look decent and the good thing is that the ride feels unstressed around 80 kmph. It performs well as well at low speed and manages to manoeuvre perfectly without excessive clutch function. The Auto-sail technology in this bike helps it move smoothly by only releasing the clutch in traffic. This new edition, however, carries the same old clunky 4-speed gearbox and Bajaj is now the only motor company offering an upgraded 5-speed gearbox in this category. The commuter delivers great mileage both in city and on highways, thanks to the i3S technology. However, it could have been a little quicker.

Moving forward, another significant modification is seen in the Hero Passion Pro i3S in the form of a diamond frame instead of the regular twin-downtube frame. This results in the bike feeling more responsive and communicating in terms of on-road handling. Additionally, this model feels more planted and stable because of the longer wheelbase. The skinny tyres, however, at the front and at the rear are not very encouraging, especially in wet conditions, and riders may find themselves shaky and slowing down for turns and corners. The ground clearance should be ample even on undone village roads and uneven terrains. The suspensions are absorbent enough at both ends and makes riding comfortable even when the rear is heavily loaded. The braking controls are decently handled by the rear drum brake and the front disc brake.

The Hero Passion Pro i3S top-notch riding comfort mostly because of the length and height of the seat. The elongated, well-cushioned and soft seat also provides relaxation over but when ridden on long hauls one may end up with a sore wrist and back. The ground clearance of the bike and the absorbent suspensions make riding increasingly comfortable on long hauls. Moreover, the pulling power of the commuter is pretty good even when it is heavily loaded. The seating posture is not very aggressive and offers long-term relaxation.