When it comes to budget commuter motorcycles in India, two names always come forward – Hero HF Deluxe and Bajaj Platina. While the Platina has long enjoyed popularity due to its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, the new Hero HF Deluxe 100 is making a strong comeback to challenge its dominance. With a refreshed look, decent mileage, and reliable performance, the HF Deluxe 100 seems ready to take on the commuter segment once again.
If you’re planning to buy a new entry-level bike and can’t decide between the two, this article will help you make the right decision. Let’s break down everything from design to price and mileage.
Design & Style
Hero has given the HF Deluxe 100 a stylish upgrade in terms of looks. While it still carries the basic commuter structure, the sharper headlamp design, new body graphics, and dual-tone color options make it look fresh. The chrome finish on the exhaust and a blacked-out engine area also add a premium touch that was missing in older models.
Compared to the Bajaj Platina, which follows a more conservative and practical look, the HF Deluxe now feels slightly more youthful. It’s clear Hero is trying to attract younger riders with this design tweak while maintaining its core commuter identity.
Engine & Performance
Under the tank, the HF Deluxe 100 is powered by a 97.2cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces around 7.91 bhp and 8.05 Nm of torque. This is the same trusted engine that Hero has used for years, now refined further with the i3S (Idle Start Stop System) for better efficiency.
The engine is mated to a 4-speed gearbox, and though it’s not meant for speed, the pickup is smooth and reliable, especially for daily city rides.
On the other hand, the Bajaj Platina comes with a slightly bigger 102cc engine, producing similar power output, but it’s tuned more towards fuel economy. In terms of real-world performance, both bikes are neck and neck. However, Hero’s engine refinement feels a bit smoother in lower gears.
Ride & Handling
The HF Deluxe comes with telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers at the front and 2-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear, making it capable of handling Indian roads comfortably.
It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is perfect for city traffic. The seat height is moderate, and the riding posture is upright – just what a commuter rider needs. Even at slow speeds or traffic signals, it remains stable and easy to control.
Compared to this, the Platina also offers good ride comfort and has slightly softer suspension, but some riders feel it becomes too bouncy at higher speeds. HF Deluxe finds a better balance between comfort and control.
Features & Tech
Hero has kept it simple, but smart. The HF Deluxe 100 gets i3S technology, which automatically switches off the engine when idle and restarts with a simple clutch pull – great for fuel saving.
There’s also analogue instrumentation, alloy wheels, and electric start available in higher variants. Don’t expect a digital screen or Bluetooth connectivity – this segment focuses more on value than features.
The Platina offers a Comfortec suspension setup, wide seat, and LED DRLs, which are nice additions, but the HF Deluxe balances it well with its practical technology.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Now this is where things get serious. The Hero HF Deluxe 100 claims a mileage of up to 65 kmpl, thanks to its fuel-efficient engine and the i3S tech. This makes it an ideal choice for people who travel long distances daily and want to save money on fuel.
In real-world conditions, it returns around 60-65 kmpl, depending on traffic and riding habits.
On the other hand, the Bajaj Platina is well-known for its mileage too, offering about 70-75 kmpl in ideal conditions. While Bajaj might have a slight edge here, the difference isn’t massive, and HF Deluxe offers better engine smoothness in exchange.
Price & Variants
Here’s a quick comparison table for your reference:
Overview Table: Hero HF Deluxe 100 vs Bajaj Platina 100
| Feature | Hero HF Deluxe 100 | Bajaj Platina 100 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 97.2cc | 102cc |
| Power | 7.91 bhp | 7.9 bhp |
| Torque | 8.05 Nm | 8.3 Nm |
| Mileage (claimed) | 65 kmpl | 70-75 kmpl |
| Gearbox | 4-speed | 4-speed |
| Starting system | Kick / Self (i3S) | Kick / Self |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | Telescopic / Hydraulic | Telescopic / Spring-in-Spring |
| Price (Ex-showroom Delhi) | ₹60,760 – ₹66,760 | ₹61,650 – ₹65,952 |
| Variants | 4 | 2 |