For years, the scooter market in India has largely revolved around models with engine displacements of up to 125cc. The Yamaha Aerox 155, launched in 2021, broke that mold as a liquid-cooled, performance-oriented maxi-scooter, quickly becoming a popular choice. In 2025, Hero MotoCorp has entered the fray with the Xoom 160, aiming to challenge Yamaha’s dominance in this niche. Here’s a head-to-head comparison of these two scooters based on their specifications and pricing.
Engine Performance: Close Competition
| Specification | Hero Xoom 160 | Yamaha Aerox 155 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 156cc, Liquid-cooled, Single Cylinder | 155cc, Liquid-cooled, Single Cylinder |
| Power Output | 14.4 hp @ 8,000 rpm | 14.7 hp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 14 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 13.9 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Power-to-Weight | 9.86 hp/tonne | 8.57 hp/tonne |
Both scooters feature modern, liquid-cooled, 4-valve engines that offer comparable power outputs. The Yamaha edges out slightly with 0.3 hp more peak power, but the Hero compensates with marginally higher torque. However, the Xoom’s heavier build affects its power-to-weight ratio, where the Aerox has a slight advantage.
Dimensions and Weight: Xoom Offers Bigger Proportions
| Specification | Hero Xoom 160 | Yamaha Aerox 155 |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Height | 787 mm | 790 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 155 mm | 145 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,348 mm | 1,350 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 7 liters | 5.5 liters |
| Kerb Weight | 142 kg | 126 kg |
The Xoom 160 is larger and heavier, offering a more spacious design suitable for taller riders. Its 7-liter fuel tank provides greater range, while its 155mm ground clearance ensures better adaptability to uneven terrains. On the other hand, the Aerox’s lighter weight contributes to better agility and handling.
Suspension, Tyres, and Braking: Slight Differences
| Specification | Hero Xoom 160 | Yamaha Aerox 155 |
|---|---|---|
| Brakes (F/R) | 240mm Disc / 130mm Drum | 230mm Disc / 130mm Drum |
| Suspension (F/R) | Telescopic Fork / Dual Shock | Telescopic Fork / Dual Shock |
| Tyres (F/R) | 120/70-14 / 140/60-14 | 110/80-14 / 140/70-14 |
Both scooters feature a similar suspension setup with telescopic forks at the front and dual shocks at the rear. However, the Xoom gets a slightly larger front disc and wider front tyres, which may translate to better braking performance and grip. It also runs on mildly off-road-ready tyres, while the Aerox uses road-biased rubber. The Aerox’s stiff rear suspension remains a potential drawback for Indian roads, whereas the Xoom’s ride quality will be worth evaluating.
Pricing: A Tough Choice
| Model | Hero Xoom 160 | Yamaha Aerox 155 |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹1.48 lakh | ₹1.49–1.53 lakh |
Hero has priced the Xoom 160 competitively, undercutting the Aerox by a small margin. While the Aerox benefits from Yamaha’s proven reliability and strong reputation, the Xoom aims to attract buyers with its fresh design, larger size, and comparable features.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Hero Xoom 160 and Yamaha Aerox 155 boils down to priorities. The Aerox, with its lightweight design and established performance, appeals to enthusiasts seeking agility and brand reliability. Meanwhile, the Xoom offers a spacious and practical alternative, particularly for taller riders or those needing better ground clearance and fuel capacity. Whether Hero’s bold entry can dethrone Yamaha’s bestseller will depend on how it performs in real-world conditions.
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