Glamour - worthy of its name!. Review on Hero Honda Glamour

I’m a software professional based in Kolkata. I have recently bought a Hero Honda Glamour on 25th April 2009 from Vinline Engineering, Baguihati, Kolkata. I had a look at the new Glamour and instantly liked it. The one I picked has got a sooty black paint in the front and a fiery red touch in the rear. I have got a PTFE coating done and that added to the gloss of the metallic and plastic body surface. Inclusive of all (road tax, insurance and HH Good Life membership fee), it cost me slightly more than 53k.

Till date I have done around 350 km and the pros and cons that I’ve found are as mentioned below –

Pros

1. Fuel economy – A satisfactory 48-49 kmpl in city riding condition where my average speed remains at 25-30 kmph. I expect it to rise over 50 kmpl after the initial ‘run-in’ period is over and the bike is serviced for 1 or 2 times.

   
   




2. Look – A very subjective one. I liked it. And so did my friends and family.

   
   




3. Balance – Superb. I often drive with my father (60 yr) on the pillion. During the ride he shifts his positions, leans backwards and does all the things I forbid him to do. Still I can tilt my bike to a good extent and snake through the city traffic. Big and wide wheels with ample treading really do their job well.

   
   




4. Maneuverability – Nice. The handlebar moves freely and does not wobble much even with 3 riders (I know it’s not recommended but I was just testing).

   
   




5. Seating – A very comfortable one. The grooves on both sides of the fuel tank accommodates my knee nicely.

   
   




6. Electricals – Lighting is good (unlike Splendor!). Dashboard is neatly designed and well illuminated. Tail lamp and indicators are powerful and can be spot from a distance.

   
   

Cons

1. Suspension – Can’t say this is a defect but the rear ones are a bit stiff. I’d have them adjusted for me and also would add some extra cushion on the seat. Hopefully the issue would be resolved.

   
   




2. Gear – The shift from 1 to 2 is really a stiff one. It eases a bit if I rev up to 18-20 kmph and then shift, but still it makes an annoying sound. Sometimes 1 to N also gets stuck. Others are fine. The pulling power in 2nd gear is also a bit less. Any remedy from you guys?

   
   




3. Body – Lot of plastic has been used in constructing the bike’s body. This makes it prone to easy breakage.

   
   

My verdict - Overall I feel this is a good bike for city commuting and occasional trips to the highway.

Please rate my review to let me know where I need to improve. Ask questions, if any. Have a nice time!

Cheers!

Ritwik