by The 110cc segment is quite popular since it has two sub-segments. One segment offers affordable, honest-to-goodness products, while the rest of them come with stylish looks and the latest equipment. For Hero, the Splendor slots into the first category, while the Passion gives its customer that bit more in terms of quality. We’ve seen the Passion evolve over the last 20 years, so in 2020, Hero decided to give the Passion Pro an all-important update.
Efficient engine
We’ve seen the updated Hero Passion Pro 110 from many years ago; Hero Bikes gave it the 109.1cc engine that also did duty on the Splendor iSmart 110. For 2020, the engine gets a BS6 update from the iSmart, meaning it now gets a 113cc engine. The engine develops 9bhp and 9.9Nm of torque. This fuel-injected motor is smooth and peppy; the best part being, the motor never feels stressed close to 80kph. It performs decently at low speeds without having to use too much of the clutch. The Hero Passion Pro 110 features Autosail tech, which helps the bike crawl forward without dabbing on the clutch. What still remains on the Hero Passion Pro 110 is the old 4-speed transmission. Surprisingly, the bike is fuel efficient, but being a product from the Hero Bikes range, it can be expected. Another feature that aids fuel economy is the i3s start-stop function.
No compromises
What’s again new is the diamond frame; gone is the old twin-downtube frame from the previous model. The bike now feels better in terms of handling. The Hero Passion Pro 110 stays planted at all times, thanks to the longer wheelbase. It’s unfortunate though that the weedy tyres don’t provide sufficient confidence. The new bike gets an increased ground clearance of 180mm and the suspension travel has gone up as well, at the front and rear. The suspension absorb the bumps well, but we found the rear to be a bit on the firm side. The seat, on the other hand, is comfortable but not for very long distances, mind you. Up-front, the bike gets disc brakes, while the rear sports drum brakes.
For the passionate
In terms of styling, the Hero Bikes have kept it simple with the Passion Pro 110. It’s more of a please-all design language. The lines on the new bike are bolder, the tank extensions are bigger, giving it a better presence. The bike is sold in two-tone colours. Up-front, the bike sports a restructured headlamp. Even the tail lamp has been revised, sporting a new look. The clear-lens turn signals are similar to the ones seen on the Xpulse. The bike features a digital-cum-analogue unit that includes a small display, showing the odometer, the i3s function, fuel level and trip meter.
A sensible buy?
At an ex-showroom price of ₹ 65,740 for the drum brake model, this is easily the priciest bike in its segment. But given the fact that it has undergone some significant changes, it makes sense to splurge that bit more. Also, let’s not forget Hero’s massive service network and its relatively low maintenance costs. The bike is sold in four colours: Techno Blue, Sports Red, Glaze Black and Moon Yellow.
The home-grown brand’s bikes have been hugely popular considering the fantastic sales figures from bikes like the Passion and Splendor. After having received multiple updates over the years, the Passion Pro 110 makes a strong case for itself. The Hero Passion X Pro is another bike you can consider, but remember, it targets the family buyer more than the guy who’d like to dart around to work on it.
