In a global unveil at the ongoing EICMA Motorcycle Show, Hero MotoCorp has unveiled the new Hero XPulse adventure bike concept. Hero says its new concept takes the Impulse legacy forward and also represents the homegrown manufacturer's plans to grow into higher engine capacity segments. The new Hero XPulse concept previews an adventure offering that will be available in dual versions. While there will be a dedicated off-roader, a touring friendly version will also be in the works.
Also Read: Hero XPulse 200 and 200T Launch - Live Updates
(Hero XPulse Concept with MD Pawan Munjal at EICMA)
Speaking on the occasion, Hero MotoCorp - Chairman, Managing Director and CEO, Pawan Munjal said, "We are constantly developing Concepts for the future - keeping in mind global trends and customer aspirations. I am sure the Adventure Concept motorcycle XPulse gives you a directional guidance on the path that Hero is going to ride on in the future. We created this segment in India a few years ago and we feel it is about time that we start conceptualizing some new thoughts and ideas in this space. And in keeping with the rising global stature of Brand Hero, we are creating such concepts not just with the Indian user in mind, but also with a focus on the evolved global markets."
Details on the Hero XPulse concept are sketchy at the moment, but speculations suggest that the bike will be using a 200 cc single-cylinder engine. This motor is expected to be the same one that will power the upcoming Xtreme 200. The bike also comes with a long travel suspension setup while there are disc brakes at the front and rear. ABS can also be seen on the XPulse concept.
(The Hero XPulse Concept previews a Royal Enfield Himalayan rival)
The new Hero concept shows off some interesting details including the raised handlebar, spoked wheels, knobby tyres and a comfortable looking seat. We also see an LED headlamp setup on the Hero XPulse concept, while there are auxiliary lamps on either side. The motorcycle also features a raised mudguard, tall visor and leg guards. The matte green finished concept certainly looks the part and the model on display also gets side panniers and a bank mounted at the rear.
The Hero XPulse concept not only previews a new bike for India but will also be sold in global markets. The offering will be locking horns with the Royal Enfield Himalayan in the country which is priced under Rs. 2 lakh (on-road). Internationally, the Hero XPulse will face competition from the likes of Kawasaki, Suzuki and KTM in the segment.
The adventure tourer segment is growing exponentially in India and in several growing economies across the world. Hero was one of the first manufacturers to tap this segment with the Impulse in 2011, but the model despite receiving lots of appreciation could not build the required volumes, and was always felt in need of more power.
The production spec Hero XPulse concept is expected to make its production debut sometime next year. However, launch details on the production model are still under wraps.
