Hero MotoCorp’s Karizma brand has been a legendary name in the Indian bike market, having launched its first bike in 2003. But its latest model, the Karizma XMR 210, which was launched in August 2023, has completely failed to achieve the expected success in the market. Figures show that its sales have been falling steadily since the sale of 1,874 units in March 2024. 947 units were sold in April 2024, 663 units in May 2024 and only 4 units in November 2024. The most shocking thing is that not a single unit was sold in December 2024, January 2025 and February 2025.
Combat Edition also has not been launched, XMR 250 can be a replacement.
Hero MotoCorp has retained the Karizma XMR 210 on its official website and had also introduced a new “Combat Edition”, which included better features and some cosmetic changes. But this variant is yet to hit the market. Meanwhile, Hero had showcased the Karizma XMR 250 at the EICMA show in November 2024. According to dealer sources, the production of the XMR 210 has been discontinued and the XMR 250 can be launched by May-June 2025.
Getting tough competition from Yamaha R15 V4
One of the major reasons for the failure of the Karizma XMR 210 is its rival Yamaha R15 V4. Although the R15 V4 has a smaller engine (155cc) than the XMR 210 (210cc) and offers less power (18.4 PS) and torque (14.2 Nm), it has sold 1,06,605 units in the last few months. This figure makes it clear that Indian customers are not only impressed by the engine capacity but also pay attention to brand value, design and performance.
XMR 250 Features and Specifications – Will it be a game-changer?
The Hero Karizma XMR 250 is expected to be launched in the Indian market by September 2025, with a price tag between ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,20,000 (ex-showroom). The bike will be powered by a 250cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 29.5-30 bhp of power and 25 Nm of torque. Key features include:
- 4.2-inch TFT instrument cluster (including turn-by-turn navigation)
- Switchable dual-channel ABS
- USD front forks and monoshock suspension
- Full LED lighting and DRLs
- Height-adjustable clip-on handlebar
Will the Karizma brand regain its glory?
Hero MotoCorp now has a big challenge ahead of it – will the XMR 250 be able to put the XMR 210 failure behind and bring the Karizma brand back to its glory days? Market analysts believe that if Hero launches the XMR 250 with the right features at the right price, it can give tough competition to competitors like the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250. At present, bike lovers and investors are keeping an eye on the next move of Hero MotoCorp.
Also Read:
The new Hero Xtreme 250R sports bike ready to rock!
Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Based Vintage Bobber: Mid-20th Century Royal Enfield Models!
TVS Raider 125: A great and great option in the 125cc segment!
