After being separated from Honda, Hero Motocorp has became the choice of the riders. Specially in the segment of commuters, Hero hasn't given any doubt to its customers and continued their Safety first criteria as their priority. Brand like Splendor and Passion are still in demand and command good resale value. The Indian manufacturer is now focusing on replacing the Honda technology with their own indigenously developed engines. Following the ongoing foray Hero Motocorp has recently introduced the updated Achiever 150, let's see what all the bike has got to offer as a premium commuter.Styling:
The new Hero Achiever, actually we must say the upgraded Hero Achiever is a 150cc commuter motorcycle. The very first sight of the motorcycle can attract many because of its looks and great road presence. Being a commuter it has got a very beautiful and attractive design. The built quality and fit n finish showcase the perfect planning of Hero's designers.The wide aerodynamic visor looks beautiful and works efficiently for a well balanced ride. Big muscular fuel tank along with long and wide seat give the feel of a big bike. Minimum use of graphics and decent livery add to the sober design philosophy of the motorcycle. The long and big exhaust coupled with chromed heat shield may remind you one used on the Honda Unicorn. The taillight featured on the new Achiever is also simple and sober, however, inclusion of LED would have been better.
Instrument Clusters and Switchgear:
The Instrument cluster featured on the bike is all analog but has got a very attractive odometer, techometer, fuel gauge, a trip meter and the side stand indicator which is seriously a very needed feature. Above the odometer Hero Motocorp has placed its logo and name of the brand. As far as switchgear are concerned they are made up of good quality plastic.
According to the BS4 norms, the motorcycle has got the AHO (automatic headlight on) technology, therefore there is no switch given to switch off the headlamp. All you can do is use the upper and dipper switch according to the need.
In place of engine kill switch there has been a switch provided for Hero's own 'i3S' technology. Near the right thumb the blue coloured switch, is for, the integrated technology of Hero Motocorp known as the I3S. Switching it on, will put the bike off (after some 10, 15 seconds) on the traffic signals which increases the fuel efficiency. To start the bike, all you need to press the clutch and you are ready to go, this is what the I3S technology is.Ergonomics:
As the bike is commuter centric so its wide handlebar and center set footpegs give the rider a comfortable ride. While the long single seat is soft and wide enough which helps the rider as well as the pillion sit comfortably while riding. Both side rubber footpegs won't even let your legs feel the harsh roads.Engine and Performance:
The Hero Achiever is equipped with 150 cc engine. Its smooth and fairly powerful engine provides Max power of 13.6 Ps @ 8000 rpm which gives the rider the perfect blend of riding a powerful commuter. The torque of 12.8 Nm @ 5000 rpm is truly convincing and you will have it evenly distributed across all rev range. The powerful and smooth engine mesmerizes the ride in the city as well as on the highways. The gearbox is as smooth as butter and has got 5 manual gears. Shifting the gears is no more a trouble for the rider while being on the Hero Achiever 150.Riding Dynamics:
The telescopic front and spring loaded twin rear suspensions help to go through the roads filled with potholes. As we have tested it on the off road as well, we didn't find trouble doing so, however, the rear suspension setup was a little hard and that cannot be compared with the efficiency of a monoshock. Cornering the motorcycle is joy in itself the balancing and wide Ceat tyres help you out to deal with the deep and short turns. Its center footpegs and long handle bar provides the feel of comfort and enhances the joy of the ride. The new Achiever comes equipped with optional front disc brakes but the bike we got was featured with drum brakes only and on applying the brakes the bike responded well. However, the drum brakes cannot be compared with the efficiency of disc brakes but in spite of the spongy feel of the front drum brake it worked pretty well and gave us the confidence while riding above the average speed.
Verdict: Hero motocorp the largest two wheeler manufacturing company, has consistently being working on new as well as its old products and upgrading them according to the norms and customer's seeking. Truly the Hero Achiever 150 is the example of it. Its butter smooth and powerful engine puts it in the category of powerful commuters while its comfortable ergonomics prevent the rider from the stressful rides. Its integrated I3S technology helps the rider to obtain better fuel efficiency in today's era of expensive fuel and busy traffic. Over all the motorcycle is completely convincing and can be the rider's choice.
Ride Courtesy: My Hero, Bhopal.
Review By: Haroon Mohd. Khan
