Hero MotoCorp is set to shake up the affordable adventure motorcycle segment with the new XPulse 160. Spotted testing for the first time, the bike promises to offer a compelling combination of practicality, features, and off-road performance.
This announcement signals Hero’s comeback to the under-200cc adventure segment, hopefully taking over the long-gone space of the Hero Impulse. The Impulse, released in 2008, was too premature and later discontinued in 2014 because of low sales. With India’s bike market now more open to ADVs, though, Hero appears poised to come back with a fighting chance.
What We Know So Far: XPulse 160
Spy photos indicates that the new ADV model could fit a smaller motor than the XPulse 210’s 210cc liquid-cooled motor. Even though the test mule was well camouflaged and the motor covered entirely, it seems to be a less complicated air-cooled motor.
This engine appears smaller than the 199.6cc oil-cooled motor of the XPulse 200 4V, which outputs 18.9 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 17.35 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Based on Hero’s current range of engines, the XPulse 160 could use the tried-and-tested 163.2cc 4-valve motor producing 16.6 bhp and 14.6 Nm, with a 5-speed transmission.
Design and Hardware Highlights
The design language continues to be mostly in line with the XPulse 200 4V, transferring features such as the elevated front mudguard and traditional telescopic forks with rubber gaiters. The XPulse 160 should also feature the same tyre sizes—21-inch front and 18-inch rear.
There were also subtle changes, like conventional round disc brakes rather than the higher-end petal-shaped ones on the XPulse 200.
Expected Features
As much as its probable lower displacement, the XPulse 160 should be well-furnished. Its expected features include all-LED lighting, all-digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging port, and ABS.
With this blend of feature-friendly hardware and ADV-capable hardware, Hero MotoCorp might have a winner on its hands. Priced correctly, the XPulse 160 can become the default pick for riders seeking a capable but not expensive adventure bike.