In the ever-evolving world of two-wheelers, where the lines between commuters and off-roaders continue to blur, Hero MotoCorp has once again raised the bar with its latest offering – the XPulse 210.
This new entrant in the adventure motorcycle segment is not just an upgrade; it’s a bold statement that Hero is serious about catering to the growing tribe of adventure enthusiasts in India and beyond.
A Design That Screams Adventure
The moment you lay eyes on the XPulse 210, you know it means business.
The bike retains the rugged, purpose-built look of its predecessor, but with subtle refinements that give it a more premium feel. The high-mounted front fender, tall windscreen, and knuckle guards are dead giveaways of its off-road intentions.
“We wanted to create a bike that looks ready for adventure, even when it’s standing still,” says Malo Le Masson, Head of Strategy at Hero MotoCorp, during the launch event in Ladakh.
“Every design element serves a purpose, whether it’s for protection, performance, or rider comfort.”
The LED headlamp, now with a daytime running light, gives the bike a distinctive face, while the robust bash plate underneath promises to keep the engine safe during those daring off-road excursions.
The new dual-tone color schemes, including a striking “Raid Red” and “Dune Brown,” add to the bike’s visual appeal.
Heart of a True Adventurer
Under the skin, the XPulse 210 packs a punch with its new 210cc, oil-cooled engine.
This powerplant is a significant step up from the 200cc unit of its predecessor, offering 20% more power and 15% more torque. The numbers translate to a healthy 23 bhp at 8000 rpm and 19.5 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm.
“The additional displacement isn’t just about bragging rights,” explains Ranjivjit Singh, Chief Growth Officer at Hero MotoCorp.
“It’s about providing that extra grunt when you’re tackling steep inclines or navigating through soft sand. The XPulse 210 has the heart to take you places where most other bikes would struggle.”
The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox, but Hero has worked on improving the gear ratios for better low-end torque, a crucial factor when riding off-road.
The bike also features a new slip-and-assist clutch, making it easier to manage during those long adventure rides.
Suspension That Soaks Up Everything
One of the standout features of the XPulse 210 is its long-travel suspension.
The front end is equipped with 41mm telescopic forks offering 190mm of travel, while the rear gets a 10-step adjustable mono-shock with 170mm of travel. This setup allows the bike to glide over obstacles that would rattle your teeth on lesser machines.
“We’ve tuned the suspension to offer a perfect balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability,” says Naveen Chauhan, Head of Sales and Aftersales at Hero MotoCorp.
“Whether you’re commuting to work or crossing a riverbed, the XPulse 210 has got you covered.”
The bike rolls on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination, shod with dual-purpose tires that offer good grip both on and off the road.
For those planning to take their adventures to the extreme, Hero offers a set of knobby off-road tires as an official accessory.
Tech-Savvy Adventurer
In an age where connectivity is king, the XPulse 210 doesn’t disappoint. The bike comes equipped with a 5-inch TFT display that offers Bluetooth connectivity.
Riders can pair their smartphones to access turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and even control music playback.
But the tech features aren’t just about convenience. The XPulse 210 also boasts of Hero’s new “Adventure Assist” system, which includes:
Ride modes (Road, Off-road, Rain)
Traction control
Hill-hold assist
Off-road ABS (switchable for the rear wheel)
“These features aren’t just gimmicks,” insists Vikram Kasbekar, Executive Director of Operations at Hero MotoCorp.
“They’re designed to give riders more confidence when tackling challenging terrains, making adventure riding more accessible to a broader range of enthusiasts.”
Built for Long Hauls
Understanding that adventure riders often clock long miles, Hero has paid special attention to making the XPulse 210 a comfortable long-distance companion.
The seat has been redesigned with better cushioning and a textured surface for improved grip. The handlebar is slightly taller and closer to the rider, offering a more upright and comfortable riding position.
The fuel tank capacity has been increased to 15 liters, giving the bike a theoretical range of over 450 km. For those planning extended trips, Hero offers a range of official accessories, including hard panniers, a top box, and additional LED fog lamps.
Safety First
In the world of adventure motorcycling, safety is paramount. The XPulse 210 comes standard with dual-channel ABS, with the option to switch off the rear ABS for better control in off-road situations.
The braking hardware consists of a 300mm disc up front and a 240mm disc at the rear, offering strong and predictable stopping power.
The bike also features a robust crash guard and a sturdy aluminum skid plate to protect vital components during those inevitable off-road tumbles.
Pricing and Market Positioning
In a segment where pricing can make or break a product, Hero has positioned the XPulse 210 aggressively. With a starting price of ₹1,45,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), it undercuts many of its competitors while offering a compelling package of performance and features.
This pricing strategy puts the XPulse 210 in a unique position.
It’s accessible enough for someone looking to upgrade from a 150-160cc motorcycle, yet capable enough to attract serious adventure enthusiasts who might otherwise look at more expensive options.
“We believe the XPulse 210 offers unmatched value in its segment,” says Niranjan Gupta, Chief Financial Officer at Hero MotoCorp.
“It’s a bike that can serve as your daily commuter during the week and take you on adventures over the weekend, all without breaking the bank.”
The Road Ahead – Hero XPulse 210
As India’s motorcycle market continues to mature, with riders increasingly looking beyond mere commuting solutions, the XPulse 210 represents Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to evolving with consumer preferences.
It’s a product that not only caters to the growing adventure touring segment but also has the potential to create new adventure enthusiasts.
The launch of the XPulse 210 is just the beginning. Hero has hinted at a range of accessories and potential variants in the pipeline, including a more road-focused tourer and a rally-spec version for those with competitive aspirations.
As the first units of the XPulse 210 roll off the production line at Hero’s state-of-the-art facility in Haridwar, there’s a palpable sense of excitement, both within the company and among motorcycle enthusiasts.
This bike represents more than just a new model; it’s a bold statement that Hero MotoCorp is ready to take on the world of adventure motorcycling.
In a market that’s increasingly crowded with options, the XPulse 210 stands out as a machine that’s built with purpose, priced with prudence, and packed with potential.
It’s a bike that promises to take the spirit of adventure to every corner of India and beyond. As the dust settles on the launch event and the assembled journalists prepare for their test rides, one thing is clear – the adventure has only just begun.