Hero Destini 125

Close to 46 per cent of the scooters that are sold in India are 125cc ones. And within this, there are some big players like the Suzuki Access 125, TVS Jupiter 125 and the Honda Activa 125. Now, with the new Destini 125, Hero MotoCorp believes that it can make a big difference in the already bustling segment. In fact, the belief is so strong that it decided to completely revamp the Destini 125 with a new design approach. We had a few hours to explore Goa and also test the new Destini 125 and we didn't leave any stone unturned.

A first glimpse at the new Destini 125 makes it clear that it is one of the very good looking scooters from Hero MotoCorp, if not the best. In fact, this new 125cc scooter has managed to grab lot of eyeballs of people from all walks of life in Goa. A lot of credit goes to that retro design language that the company decided to follow. From the front, the Destini 125 showcases its retro yet modern design cues. The headlamp looks quite stunning, thanks to the presence of some neatly designed DRLs. Plus, this unit also has a projector lamp - something that isn’t usually seen on scooters.

Then there’s the front apron that is properly integrated with the overall design language of the scooter. The side angle looks charming too as there’s some good amount of flowing lines and creases. But the rear of the Destini 125 is the talking point. Why? Firstly, it has some inspiration from the Vida range of e-scooters. Secondly, the split rear setup gives it quite a unique identity. When you follow the new Destini 125, it shows that you are riding behind a premium-looking scooter.

As a scooter, the new Destini 125 offers good number of features. The top-end model comes with full digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity. It also gets auto cancel turn indicators, start switch with backlight, USB charger and boot lamp. Further, it comes with a lot of chrome all over, pillion grab rail, external fuel filling cap and all LEDs throughout. There’s also a front storage for phone and water bottle, and the underseat storage can take a helmet and a few other things.

The engine on the new Destini 125 is the same as the old one – a 125cc single-cylinder motor which makes 9bhp and 10.4Nm of peak torque. It gets a CVT and there are no changes there. Hero MotoCorp claims a fuel efficiency of 59kmpl, which according to them is the best in the class.

First things first – the seat ergonomics. This new Hero does a great job there. The seating triangle is spot on for city commutes – there’s a decently placed handlebar and lots of space on the floorboard. Hero says that they have smartly packed the ergos so that legs don’t hit the ignition key during braking – something which I think wasn’t really a real world problem. The seat, however, offers plenty of room for two adults. During this short ride, the seating comfort was well taken care of.

Now coming to the performance, the Destini 125 has gotten far more refined than the previous model. This improvement is quite obvious. I remember the amount of vibes that were felt in the floorboard on the old model, but on the new Destini 125, there was barely any buzz. The acceleration is decent and the scooter feels quick off the line. There isn’t any kind of peppiness, but in the city limits, the new Destini 125, feels apt and quite easy to ride around. Being an urban two-wheeler, the sweet spot it is around 50-60kmph. The scooter can do 80kmph, but that will start affecting the overall fuel efficiency of the scooter.

The overall ride quality of the scooter was quite good too. It wasn’t too plush, but it did a fantastic job of keeping me comfortable. I liked the rebound at the back and Hero did say that a lot of work had gone in that. I weigh close to 90kgs, but Hero says that the springs have been adjusted to take the pillion weight as well. The brakes work fairly well too. An average scooter commuter would enjoy the progressive bite and power. It is the same story with the handling. The new Destini feels light and easy to move around. The weight distribution is right and even with a pillion onboard, the scooter can do easy turns in tight parking spots.

The new Destini 125 checks of a lot of right boxes. With this new styling language, it makes sense for someone who has high aspirations from the things they buy and also consider it an extension of their personality. The new Destini 125 also makes sense for the riders who have been riding Activas for years now and want to have a bit of flavor in their life. Plus, the refined 125cc engine does a good job, and the overall handling traits are well mannered too. The claimed fuel efficiency figure of 59kmpl will be tested when we get the scooter for a longer duration, but for now, the new Destini 125 should definitely be considered to buy this festive season.

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi