Hero MotoCorp has taken an aggressive turn in the scooter segment by launching varied models in 110cc for diverse audiences. Today, we are about to discuss the whole-new Hero Duet unisex scooter. Let’s check out whether it lives up to your expectations or not.
Since its separation from Honda, Hero MotoCorp has found a way to carve a unique niche. It has established its whole-new R&D facility in Jaipur and launched the first series of well-designed and engineered products.
Hero Duet
Hero Pleasure has already got a masculine counterpart and revamped it as the whole new Maestro Edge. This time, Hero Duet is here as a family scooter to give competition to Honda Activa in the same segment.
Hero Duet Features
Having beautiful red hues, Hero Duet looks really clean despite the fact that design is not too outlandish. The metallic body gives the premium feel with headlight integrated into the handlebar. The sides and front have chrome dashes. It has dual-tone rear view mirrors, 3D “Duet” chrome badge, and multi-reflecting taillights to further enhance its appeal.
Hero Duet features a clean analogue cluster that has digital odometer and the switches are little simple. However, the switchgear quality may let you down. But there are some handy pointers like service light and indicator for side stand. The design is based on the combo of simplicity and style. But the dashboard’s fibre quality may disappoint you.
When it comes to the features, this is something scooter leads. It has a lot of features like integrated braking, telescopic forks on front, and external fuel cap, so you won’t need to uncover the seat for refuelling. It also has a USB 3.0 port for mobile charging and an under-seat bulb that is known to be a great addition. It gives dubious battery life to your smartphone. Overall, the under seat storage is below par.
You can operate the fuel cap using an ignition key hole which can also work as steering lock, the remote seat release and the ignition. You have nice grip and a lot of space on the footboard. But you can cramp up the things with cargo box if you are taller. It has an ergonomic multifunctional keyhole.
Hero Duet Performance and Engine
Duet is powered by air-cooled, 4-stroke, 110cc single cylinder engine which churns out 8.3 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm and 8.4 PS of power at 8000rpm. The heavier body makes it a bit slower and the acceleration is ranked at 0 to 60 kmph within 9.8 seconds. But the CVT transmission is quite responsive while opening the throttle. Duel manages it well to reach around 70 to 80 kmph. If you go beyond, you may feel vibrations on the footboard and the NVH levels are on the high side.
The idling speed of 50 kmph is the sweet spot here. You can really ride the scooter comfortably in the city. The power train is widely refined and it is the nice companion for you both in the city and on the highway. The fuel tank can store up to 5.5 liters of fuel. When it comes to fuel efficiency, it delivered 49 kmpl in city and 53 kmpl on highways when testing it on mileage runs. All in all, the 110 cc scooter delivers 51 kmpl on average.
Hero Duet Handling, Braking and Ride
When you already have high expectations with Hero Duet, things get very exciting here. The front features telescopic forks rather than trailing link setup on Honda Activa. Duet makes breaking easier than ever while negotiating potholes, speed bumps and bad roads. The hydraulic shock absorbers perform well in tandem. Handling is really nice with the whole-new chassis. Though it is not intended to take on bends and steep corners, Duet is capable to deal with them without giving any feel of anxiety when it reaches 40 kmph. With great balance due to little heavier weight, the tires also make you confident enough to manoeuvre well along with the tough traffic.
It features internal drum brakes of 130mm and it expands well. On the other side, it features Combined Braking System (also known as Integrated Braking System) which is known to be a boon for the beginners by keeping the rear wheel locking. On the seat, it features tender cushioning but it is firm well for extended scooter riders. However, my back was feeling sore on a few long trips during the weekend.
Verdict
Behind plenty of features and superior handling, Hero Duet has several plus points irrespective of having a common design. You can have the best family bike when it is coupled with nice fuel efficiency. The price is a few thousands of rupees lower than TVS Jupiter and Honda Activa 3G. Hero Duet has been outsold by the more expensive and brawnier cousin, Maestro Edge. It would seriously boil the overall looks of scooter down. The committed after sales support is another USP.
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