Hero Motocorp unveiled the Maestro Edge 125 at the 2018 Auto Expo. The scooter is the manufacturer’s first ever 125cc scooter and is aimed at younger buyers. When launched, it will compete against the Suzuki Access 125 in the Indian market. How do the scooters stack up against each other?
Design and features
The Maestro Edge 125 looks similar to its smaller 110cc sibling. The scooter’s design language consists of sharp and edgy lines to lend a modern appeal. On the other hand, the Suzuki Access 125 sports a retro look thanks to the curvy side profile and touches of chrome on the exhaust cover, front apron and headlamp cowl.
The part-digital, part-analogue instrument cluster on the Maestro Edge 125 is directly borrowed from the 110cc variant. However, it appears fresher than the Suzuki’s out-dated analogue speedometer with a small digital unit that displays the odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and oil change indicator.
While most of the current 125cc scooters feature LED lighting for the headlamp and tail lamp, the Maestro Edge 125 only features an LED tail lamp. The Access 125 misses out on both.
Engine
The Maestro Edge 125 is powered by a 125cc single-cylinder engine that produces 8.7bhp and 10.2Nm of torque. The scooter also comes equipped with the i3S system, a feature earlier available only on the manufacturer’s motorcycles. This feature shuts off the engine if it remains idle for a predefined interval, to save fuel. The rider can then twist the accelerator to start the scooter when needed. The i3S system is particularly useful at traffic signals.
Meanwhile, the Access 125 also uses a 125cc engine that produces a slightly lower power output of 8.4bhp and 10.2Nm of torque.
Pricing
Hero has not yet launched the Maestro Edge 125 in the Indian market, however we can expect the scooter to arrive in the first half of 2018. It is likely to be priced at a premium of Rs 5000- Rs 7000 over the 110cc variant which costs Rs 49,900. You could get your hands on the standard Access 125 for a price of Rs 55,046. The disc brake variant is priced at Rs 58,350. Hero will also offer the Maestro Edge 125 with an optional disc brake.
All prices ex-showroom, Delhi.
