Hero MotoCorp has been the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, and its commuter segment bikes have helped it achieve that status. But once in a while, the company introduces something special that tugs at the heartstrings of us enthusiasts. Years ago, under its erstwhile identity as Hero Honda, the company introduced the CBZ and Karizma and their various other iterations. After its transition to Hero MotoCorp came the Impulse. Now, I think this bike was way ahead of its time and did not receive the recognition it deserved. And again for a few years, the company focused on commuter bikes. But then came along the Xpulse 200, and it addressed the needs of enthusiasts who were looking for a lightweight, affordable dual-sport motorcycle. And along with it, the company had also introduced the road-oriented version, the Xpusle 200T.
Now, a refreshed Xpulse 200 was introduced in 2021 with a four-valve engine, however, the sibling was yet to receive an update. That is until now! Recently Hero MotoCorp introduced the tarmac-friendly twin, the 200T 4V, and this bike has a different purpose to serve. We spent some quality time astride the motorcycle to find out if it can deliver on its promises.
The Hero Xpulse 200T 4V gets a neo-retro look with three dual-tone colour options.
Now the previous Xpulse 200T was certainly a decent-looking motorcycle, but it had some shortcomings when it came to visual appeal. And the company has tried to cover that with this 4V version. Visually, Hero MotoCorp has gone for a neo-retro look. There are three new dual-tone colour options on offer with new graphics. I particularly liked the Sports Red option we had with us.
The Hero Xpulse 200T 4V is a bit more compact compared to the previous versions.
Compared to the previous version of the bike, there are some marginal changes made to the dimensions as well. Overall, the bike is a bit more compact now, however, the wheelbase has been increased, so it feels a bit more planted. Also, the centre-set footpegs and the lower, flatter handlebars offer an upright riding position for comfort riding.
The tarmac-friendly Xpulse 200T 4V gets 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.
Now, there are some road-friendly elements as well. Unlike the regular Xpulse 200 4V, which comes with a 21-inch spoked wheel up front, here you get a new 17-inch alloy wheel at both ends. Also, instead of the dual-purpose CEATs, here you get road-oriented MRF Nylogrip Zapper tyres. There are some new elements as well like the fork bellows up front which covers up those skinny forks and a body-coloured short visor which adds to that neo-retro look. Overall fit and finish are very good, the paint quality is also nice and we certainly like how the new Xpulse 200T 4V looks.
The bike gets a fully-digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation.
As for the features list, it remains largely identical to the previous model. You get a fully-digital LCD display that has read-outs for the speedometer, odometer, and tachometer along with time, average speed, side stand indicator and more. The system is also equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, which can be accessed by Hero Ride Guide mobile application. Hero is offering an LED headlight and LED taillight, along with a plastic bash plate as well. Also, like the Xpulse 200 4V, there is now one single switch that is both the electric starter and the engine kill switch.
The Xpulse 200T 4V gets LED lighting, USB Charger, and updated switchgear.
The Hero Xpulse 200T 4V comes with new mirrors as well, but I felt the visibility wasn’t very great. There is also a USB charger on offer, however, it is positioned under the seat, so it’s not very practical for everyday use. The grabrail too looks very basic, however, it’s quite conveniently positioned and easy to hold.
The Xpulse 200T now gets a 199.6 cc oil-cooled 4-valve engine and a 5-speed gearbox.
The 2023 Hero Xpulse 200T 4V is powered by a 199.6 cc single-cylinder oil-cooled, 4-valve engine, which replaces the older two-valve motor. The motor is tuned to make around 19 bhp at 8,500 rpm, while the peak torque stands at 17.35 Nm, which is developed at 6,500 rpm. The engine feels perky and quite energetic, offering a spirited performance. In fact, despite having the same engine as the regular Xpulse 200 4V, this bike feels a lot different when you ride it. It is very nimble and a lot more agile despite offering the same power and torque output.
Despite having the same engine as the regular Xpulse 200 4V, this bike feels a lot different to ride.
Now, the engine is certainly more refined than the older 2-valve version, and you can achieve higher top speeds as well, but it feels at home between 70 to 90 kmph. The perky tarmac-friendly bike is designed for the everyday commute, and for some light touring as well. The motor comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox, which performs well. The shifts are nice and precise, however, Hero could have worked a bit more on refinement. Also, finding neutral can be tricky at times.
The bike feels nimble and a lot more agile despite offering the same power and torque output as the regular Xpulse 200.
The Xpulse 200T handles quite nicely. Having 17-inch wheels up front means the direction changes are quick and easy. The tyres offer good grip on tarmac and impart enough confidence even while taking corners at high speeds. On the flip side, I am not a big fan of its ride quality, and you won't be either if you have ridden the regular Xpulse. To achieve good handling, Hero has stiffened the suspension, but it's been done to a point where it could become a bit uncomfortable for a lot of riders. In fact, even in the factory setting the rear suspension was too stiff for my liking.
The bike handles really well however the suspension is set a bit on the stiffer side making the ride a bit uncomfortable.
Luckily, Hero does offer you a 7-step adjustable monoshock at the rear, so I was able to adjust the preload as per my preference. The C-spanner to adjust the preload is offered with the tool kit so you can do it yourself. However, the 37 mm telescopic front forks are non-adjustable and the bike also gets less travel than the regular Xpulse. The seat could also do with better cushioning, especially if Hero wants to market this as a tourer.
The Xpulse 200T 4V gets front telescopic forks, rear monoshock suspension and disc brakes at both ends.
For braking, you have disc brakes at both ends, 276 mm up front and 220 mm at the rear, along with a single-channel anti-locking braking system (ABS) as standard. The brakes have good bite and stopping power, however, we wish Hero had offered dual-channel ABS at lease with this Xpulse 200T 4V.
The Hero Xpulse 200T 4V is priced at Rs. 1.26 lakh and is priced competitively.
At close to Rs. 1.26 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Hero Xpulse 200T 4V is certainly priced well. The company wants to position the motorcycle as a street bike that can also be used for touring. However, both the suspension and the seat are not comfortable enough for long-distance riding. The dual-sport Xpulse 200 4V can perform that role more efficiently by offering better ride quality and wind protection.
And if you are looking for good on-road performance, then something like a TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is a much better motorcycle. It offers more power, gets better tech and features and is just a little over 20,000 rupees more expensive. And if you want a bit more comfortable, then TVS’ Ronin is also priced in the same range.
Hero has done a fine job with the bike however, the competition is tough and will have a tough time ahead for itself.
Now, Hero has certainly done a fine job in making all those improvements that make it a finished product, and we too had quite a bit of fun with the motorcycle. However, buyers looking for a motorcycle in this space already have some very good options in the form of its rivals. And this is why I think that the Hero Xpulse 200T 4V will have a tough time ahead for itself.
