Hero Duet VX

The Hero Duet VX is a well-engineered scooter designed to cater to the needs of Indian commuters. It is powered by a 110.9cc air-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder engine that produces 8PS of power at 7500rpm and 8.7Nm of torque at 5500rpm. The scooter features a metal body with contemporary styling, including an elegant front design and a beefy rear end. It comes with several convenient features such as an underseat boot light, mobile charging port, front and rear luggage hooks, and a service reminder. The Duet VX also includes Heros Integrated Braking System, which enhances braking performance by activating both front and rear brakes simultaneously. With a top speed of 85kmph and a wheelbase of 1245mm, it offers stability and comfort, making it a suitable choice for both urban and suburban riding. The scooter is available in five appealing color options, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

The Hero Duet VX is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable scooter, especially in the Indian market. With its sturdy metal body and contemporary styling, it stands out in the unisex scooter segment. The scooter offers a stable and composed ride, thanks to its telescopic front suspension and hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. The well-padded seat and ample storage space, including an underseat boot light and mobile charging port, make it a practical option for daily commuting. However, the CVT transmission can feel sluggish beyond 60kmph, and the lack of alloy wheels and advanced switchgear might be a drawback for some. Overall, it is a value-for-money scooter that balances performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency.

Hero MotoCorp is expected to launch the Hero Duet Electric, a fully electric version of the scooter, although the exact launch date is still unknown. The new model will use a 5KV electric motor producing 14 Nm of torque and will retain the mechanical components of the original Duet. I think this electric version could be a game-changer if priced competitively, around Rs 52,000.

The Hero Duet VX, a popular scooter in its time, has been discontinued in India since April 2020. The decision was largely due to low sales, despite its features like an all-metal body, external fuel filling, and a mobile charging port. I think this move was necessary for Hero MotoCorp to focus on more successful models.

Before its discontinuation, the Hero Duet VX was priced at around Rs 52,330 (ex-showroom) and came with a 110.9 cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, producing 8.31 bhp and 8 Nm of torque. It also featured tubeless tyres and an Integrated Braking System. I believe these specs made it a competitive option in the 110cc scooter segment.

There has been speculation about a potential hybrid-electric model, the Hero Duet E, which was first showcased at the Auto Expo 2016. This model could offer a range of 65 km and a 0-60 kmph time of 6.5 seconds. I think if Hero can bring this to market with fast charging and a competitive price, it could regain some market share.

The original Hero Duet VX was known for its stylish design, with features like a V-shaped chrome strip on the front apron and integrated headlamp and turn signals. It was available in six different color options, making it a visually appealing choice. I believe the design was one of its strong points, even if sales didnt reflect that.

The Hero Duet VX, although discontinued, was priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price for the Duet VX was around Rs 49,900. When considering the on-road price, which includes additional costs such as registration, insurance, and other local taxes, it would typically range from Rs 57,000 to Rs 62,000, depending on the state and local regulations. This pricing makes it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable scooter without breaking the bank. However, since it is discontinued, buyers might need to explore other current models or consider purchasing a used Duet VX.

The Hero Duet VX boasts an impressive mileage, which is a crucial factor for many Indian buyers. With a claimed mileage of 63kmpl, it is one of the more fuel-efficient scooters in its class. In real-world conditions, especially in city traffic, it can easily deliver around 55-60 kmpl, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. This mileage, combined with its reliable engine, makes the Duet VX a good option for those concerned about running costs.