The Hero Mavrick and another unidentified bike have been spotted lately, and devotees are getting excited about Hero MotoCorp's impending major motorbike portfolio expansion. According to the most recent conjecture the mystery bike is probably an XPulse model built on a 440cc platform.
Visual Clues: Insights from the Spy Shots
The spy shots reveal a distinctive vertical catalytic converter on the spotted bike, resembling the design seen in the Harley-Davidson X440 and this resemblance fuels speculation that Hero MotoCorp might be in the process of developing an XPulse variant with a 440cc platform. Given the torquey nature of the 440cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine (38Nm at 4,000rpm), the new XPulse could be optimized for off-road riding with strategic tweaks.
Performance Potential: Leveraging the 440cc Engine
The 440cc engine not only offers impressive torque but also delivers a respectable power output of 27PS at 6,000rpm. This capability allows the bike to comfortably handle highway speeds of up to 120kmph, addressing concerns that users had with the XPulse 200 4V. Additionally, the 2-valve, SOHC setup of the engine presents a cost-effective solution aligning with Hero MotoCorp's strategy to balance performance and affordability.
Market Strategy: Navigating the 450cc Space
The spy shots dismiss the possibility of the spotted bike being the long-awaited liquid-cooled XPulse 400, as it has been captured alongside the Harley-Davidson X440 and the upcoming Hero Mavrick and this observation strengthens the likelihood of it being an XPulse based on the 440cc platform potentially undergoing benchmarking.
In response to market dynamics and potential delays in the liquid-cooled engine project, Hero MotoCorp may explore the 450cc space. Considering the competition, particularly the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 with a 452cc engine, it makes strategic sense for Hero to target the 450cc segment. This move would position the upcoming XPulse variant as a formidable competitor especially against the anticipated 2025 KTM 390 Adventure.
Launch and Pricing: A Glimpse into the Future
If the speculations hold true, the Hero XPulse based on the 440cc platform could make its debut in early 2025. As for the pricing, an estimated figure of around Rs 2.3 lakh (ex-showroom) is suggested, positioning it competitively in the market.
Conclusion
There is excitement in the motorcycle scene around the possible release of the Hero XPulse which is built on a 440cc platform. In the adventure bike market, enthusiasts may anticipate a strong off-road performance that makes use of the torque and power of the 440cc engine. Keep an eye on this page for updates when Hero MotoCorp makes public its plans for this eagerly awaited lineup expansion.