The Hero HF Deluxe 100 is a popular entry-level commuter motorcycle known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. Here’s a review based on the information available:
Overview:
The Hero HF Deluxe 100 is designed as a no-nonsense, budget-friendly option for daily commuting and short-distance travel, especially within city limits. It emphasizes simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and high mileage.
Key Features:
- Engine: It is powered by a reliable 97.2cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder OHC engine. This engine typically produces a maximum power of around 7.91-8.02 PS at 8000 rpm and a peak torque of about 8.05 Nm at 6000 rpm.
- Mileage: A significant highlight of the HF Deluxe 100 is its impressive fuel efficiency. The claimed mileage is around 70 kmpl, and many users report real-world figures in the range of 65-70 kmpl in city conditions and even higher on highways. This makes it a very economical option for daily commuting.
- i3S (Idle Start-Stop System): Some variants of the HF Deluxe come equipped with Hero’s i3S technology. This system automatically switches off the engine when the bike is idle for a few seconds in traffic and restarts it with a simple clutch pull, helping to save fuel and reduce emissions.
- CBS (Combined Braking System): The bike features drum brakes on both the front (130mm) and rear (130mm) wheels. These are often equipped with CBS, which distributes braking force between the front and rear brakes when the rear brake is applied, providing more stable and controlled braking.
- Design and Build: The HF Deluxe sports a simple and practical design with a focus on functionality. It features a long, single-piece seat for comfortable riding for both rider and pillion. The bike has a lightweight structure (around 109-112 kg kerb weight), which contributes to easy handling in city traffic.
- Comfort and Handling: The ergonomic design with a neutral handlebar and footpeg positioning offers a comfortable riding posture for short to medium rides. The lightweight chassis makes it easy to maneuver through traffic. The suspension system typically includes telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers at the front and a swingarm with 2-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear, providing a decent ride quality on regular city roads.
- Features: The bike generally comes with basic features suitable for its segment, including an analogue instrument console displaying speed, odometer, and fuel level. It usually has a halogen headlight, bulb-type taillight and turn signals, a low fuel indicator, and a pass switch. Some variants might offer alloy wheels and self-start as options, while the base variant usually has kick-start and spoke wheels. It also often includes practical elements like a saree guard and pillion footrest.
- Safety: Apart from CBS, the bike sometimes includes features like a side stand engine cut-off sensor and an engine cut-off in case of a fall for added safety.
- Price and Variants: The Hero HF Deluxe 100 is positioned as an affordable motorcycle, with different variants available. As of May 2025, the ex-showroom price in Delhi starts around ₹60,000 and may vary depending on the specific variant and location.
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency, making it very cost-effective for daily use.
- Affordable price point, suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
- Lightweight and easy to handle, especially in city traffic.
- Comfortable riding posture for commuting.
- Low maintenance costs and a wide service network.
- Availability of i3S for enhanced fuel saving in some variants.
- CBS for improved braking safety.
- Decent build quality and reliability.
Cons:
- Basic design and limited modern features.
- Engine performance is adequate for city commuting but might feel strained at higher speeds or with a pillion on highways.
- No disc brake option available.
- The instrument console is analogue and lacks advanced information.
Real 65 kmpl Mileage:
The claim of a “real 65 kmpl” mileage is supported by many user reviews, which indicate that achieving this figure in city riding conditions is quite feasible. Factors like riding style and traffic conditions can influence the actual mileage obtained.
i3S & CBS Brakes:
As mentioned, the availability of i3S (for better fuel efficiency) and CBS (for safer braking) are significant advantages offered in certain variants of the Hero HF Deluxe 100, making it a more practical and safer option in the budget commuter segment.
Overall:
The Hero HF Deluxe 100 is a reliable and economical motorcycle that serves its purpose as a budget commuter effectively. Its high mileage, ease of handling, and affordability make it a popular choice for daily riders looking for a practical and cost-efficient mode of transport. While it may lack the styling and features of more premium bikes, it excels in its core function of providing efficient and dependable commuting.