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Funny how something that started out as an economic and utilitarian mode of transportation transformed into something that promises to replace a motorcycle or even a car. The scooter scene in India was dominated (and restricted) by the ‘traditional’ models; however, in recent years, we’ve had a bunch of sporty scooters that aimed to blur the lines between them and motorcycles. But none dared to do what Hero MotoCorp did — make a maxi-scooter with ADV traits sprinkled all over. And it seemed like a brilliant idea, no? The Yamaha Aerox 155, the Aprilia SR 160 (now SR 175) and the recently launched TVS NTorq 150 were all leaning towards one side, leaving a void that this Indian two-wheeler giant filled with this ADV-style scooter.

And there’s no second-guessing the Xoom 160’s intentions — the ADV-style beak, (relatively) long-travel suspension, dual-purpose tyres and the upswept exhaust give an impression that this one’s ready to take on trails… before you stow some groceries in its 22-litre underseat storage.

The Xoom 160 is a big scooter at 142 kg, but it doesn’t feel sluggish. In fact, it’s fun to hoon around town. The suspension, though pliant on smooth tarmac, shows its limits on broken roads. At around 30 kph it manages bumps and potholes decently, but go slower or faster and the firm setup with quick rebound either tosses you off or sends jolts straight to your back. The real let-down, however, are the MRF Kurve tyres. Despite their block pattern suggesting off-road ability, grip is lacking both on and off tarmac. Cornering confidence is shaky, feedback is almost absent, and the front end can wash out without warning. Wet grip? Even less impressive. Honestly, grippy road-biased tyres would’ve made much more sense here.

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Where the Xoom redeems itself is in performance. The 156cc motor isn’t an all-out sprinter off the line but builds speed quickly and surges past 100 kph with ease. Mid-range is strong, making ghats and highway overtakes stress-free. Refinement is butter-smooth — no vibrations till around 94 kph, and even at full chat the engine doesn’t sound strained. What could’ve made it even better is a shorter throttle pull; the current setup dulls some of that responsiveness.

On the rider’s perch, things are more sorted. The tall, wide handlebar makes manoeuvring easy, and the seat is plush enough for longer rides. The central spine gives you something to grip, but the maxi-scooter-style footrests are oddly shaped. They provide decent support, but the narrowing at the top leaves half your feet hanging off. Storage, though, is generous with 22 litres under the seat.

The Xoom doesn’t go overboard on features. The console is clear but feels dated for the segment, especially at this price point. The absence of switchgear-mounted toggles to navigate through console options is a bit of a miss. That said, the keyless ignition and multi-function dial for the seat and fuel lid are well executed, even if the fob feels a little cheap.

Here’s the thing — the Hero Xoom 160 looks like an ADV scooter, but it isn’t one. The firm suspension and sketchy tyres limit its all-terrain promise. Yet it isn’t a full-blown sporty scooter either, despite having the engine to back it up. What it really is, then, is an entertaining scooter with maxi-scooter practicality and highway ability. Swap the stock tyres for better rubber, and you’ll have a blast. Straight out of the showroom, though, the Xoom 160 feels like a scooter caught between two worlds — and not fully committed to either.