Reliable and refined commuter bike. Review on Hero Passion xPro

I was looking for a bike to replace my 12 year old LML energy FX. My requirements were reliability and refinement. Performance was not on my check list. I had short listed Honda dream yuga and Passion Xpro.Both these bikes share the same 110 cc engine with Honda CB Twister. Dropped Honda Dream Yuga as it lacks disc brake and lack of availability of spare parts outside Honda dealership.

Booked Xpro from Adyar hero motors at Rs 63000 on road with accessories. Dealer experience was above average.The dealer is too crowded, I doubt if they get time to even wash the bike during service.

Positives: Liked the simple styling of Xpro and its silent, refined engine. Always starts at first attempt. Smooth ride and lack of vibrations are the pros.Mileage is 62 kmpl  driving in city traffic at speeds strictly below 50 kmph.Torque is sufficent for city traffic. Gearbox is slick with smooth gear changes.Build and paint quality is excellent for a bike of this class. The petrol tank lid is stylish.

Negatives:Stiff rear shock absorber gave me back pain that I had to visit Orthopedic specialist for treatment. Reported this issue during first free service. They claim to have adjusted the rear shocks but doesnt seem to make much difference in ride comfort. This issue disappears when riding with pillion rider.

TVS tubeless tyres are not at all good and lack any grip on wet roads. Planning to change to MRF after 1 year.

I am disappointed that Hero motocorp did not take pains to differentiate Xpro from old passion pro, many people are not even aware that this is a new bike with a different engine.

The single horn is loud enough and lights are bright. One minor complaint is that the passlight switch is not working after recent rains.

As I use this bike only for going to office and do not exceed 50 kmph speed, it suits my requirement.

Commuters looking for a reliable, smooth bike with good mileage should buy this bike. Youngsters looking for performance or looks may be disappointed.

Update after 15 months and 5000 kms.

The bike is still going strong. Mileage is between 51-57 kmpl. Highly reliable.

Adyar Hero service is not satisfactory. Chain becomes loose frequently.

This bike was used by Devjeet Saha in the Ironbutt association saddle sore competition where he rode a Passion Xpro for 1619 kms in less than 24 hours through various states of India.

devjeetsaha.com/saddle-sore-on-hero-passion-xpro.html

Update after 2 years and 8000 kms

Consistent mileage of 68 kmpl only city driving at speeds less than 60 kmph.

Changed tyres to Michelin Sirac Street. Rear tyre not satisfactory. Better to go for Ceat gripp for rear tyres.