Hero MotoCorp unveiled two of its next generation scooters on 29th of September, 2015. Both scooters have been developed from the ground up and is expected to take on segment leaders with superior features.
Indian two-wheeler manufacturer has christened these products as Maestro Edge and Duet. We were lucky enough to ride Hero Maestro Edge and here is our unbiased opinion about the scooter.
Engine Specification & Gearbox
Hero MotoCorp. has developed an all-new 110.9cc single cylinder, air-cooled engine. Maestro Edge produces 8.31 horsepower, along with 8.30Nm peak torque output. It gets an automatic clutch with Variomatic Drive.
Mileage
Hero MotoCorp claims that the Maestro Edge delivers a fuel efficiency of 63.8 km/l. Under real world conditions however, expect the scooter to return around 55km/l.
Design
In terms of design, the Maestro Edge looks similar to its previous scooter, the Maestro. Hero MotoCorp, however, has provided a more sculpted and chiseled design this time over.
Upfront, the headlight and turn indicators look more aggressive and sharp compared to its competitors. Bodywork gets a more masculine appeal to it, which can be noticed from front fender and body panel.
We also liked the incorporation of a samll windscreen above meter console of Hero Maestro Edge scooter. Mirrors too get colour co-ordinated covers and have an aerodynamic looking scoop.
Aggressive and stylish is what Hero Maestro Edge looks from a side view. The scooter has loads of styling, however, it is just enough and not too overpowering visually.
The rear end of the Maestro Edge looks well sculpted and taillight cluster draws most of your attention. The Hero MotoCorp design team has done an excellent job with the exhaust, providing one of the best looking mufflers.
Features
Scooters are all about convenience and Hero MotoCorp has done an excellent job on features. Best feature is the boot and fuel lid opening from front itself, where the key goes in for ignition.
This is simply great and not having to remove the key to open different things is fantastic. Maestro Edge customers will really love the convenience provided by this remote opening facility.
Maestro Edge offers 22 litres of under seat storage space. A full-sized helmet fits perfectly under the seat, however, there is no more space for any other belonging to be stored with it.
Hero MotoCorp also offers two unique features in their under seat storage system. Maestro Edge offers a USB 3.0 charging source and a light to show owners what is stored inside.
The Maestro Edge receives a part analogue/ digital instrument console. Information such as speed, side stand warning, service reminder, odometer, trip meter, and fuel level are displayed.
An Integrated Braking system is also provided on the Maestro Edge. In our test, however, we noticed that braking felt disconnected and did not offer much confidence under hard braking conditions.
The Maestro Edge offers a pass light which is not common on scooters offered in India. It has been nicely integrated into the low and high beam switch. We loved this feature and surely, scooter owners will too.
Colours
Hero MotoCorp will be offering its all-new Maestro Edge in seven colour options. The scooter will go on sale from 13th of October, 2015 across India.
The colour options include Candy Blazing Red, Panther Black, Pearl Silver White, Shooting Night Star, Techno Blue, Matte Vernier Grey, and Matte Blue. They will be available in both trim options of the Maestro Edge.
Pricing and Trim options
Maestro edge will be available in two options for customers to choose from.
- LX model of Maestro Edge by Hero MotoCorp is priced at INR 49,500 ex-showroom, Delhi.
- VX model of Maestro Edge by Hero MotoCorp is priced at INR 50,700 ex-showroom, Delhi.
Riding & Handling
Hero Maestro Edge looks a little bulky to look at initially, however, once you start riding it is extremely nimble. Tyres provide sufficient grip and can really be throw around a corner, which we do not suggest a rider to do so.
Ride is smooth and the suspension setup is right for Indian road conditions. Post the 35-40km/h mark, the scooter performs efficiently, although it lacked initial power delivery.
Specs Overview
| Engine | 110.9cc, Air-cooled, 4-Stroke |
| Max Power | 8.31bhp @ 8000rpm |
| Max Torque | 8.30nm @ 6500rpm |
| Starting | Self-Start |
| Clutch / Gear box | Automatic Clutch / Variomatic Drive |
| Tyre Size Front | 90/90 – 12 – 54J |
| Tyre Size Rear | 90/100 – 10 – 53J |
| Dimensions (lenght/width/height in mm) | 1841/695/1190 |
| Kerb Weight | 110 Kg |
Pros
- Masculine design
- Segment first features
- Made in India from ground up
- Remote opening boot and fuel lid
- Integrated Braking
- Stylish muffler
- Unique colour options
Cons
- Initial pickup
- Engine note
- Plastic quality
Verdict
Hero Maestro Edge will surely compete with Honda’s Activa and in terms of features, as it is far superior. Colour options are also more funky and not very formal on the Maestro Edge.
The engine still needs a bit of improvement, as it lacks initial pickup which makes it feel sluggish. Brakes could do with more bite to facilitate emergency braking. Overall, the design is fresh and will appeal to several scooter buyers.
