2018 Auto Expo - What To Expect From Hero?

Hero Xtreme 200 S:

Hero MotoCorp  had unveiled the Xtreme 200 S at the 2016 Auto Expo and was expected to launch the production version of the concept bike at the 2018 edition. Fast forward to 2018 and Hero has announced that it will launch the new Xtreme 200 S on January 30 and will be showcasing the bike publicly at the Expo. The new Hero offering is expected to be priced around Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom) and will rival the likes of the TVS Apache RTR 200, Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 and the Yamaha FZ 25.

The new Hero motorcycle, with sharper lines and creases, looks like an evolution over the Xtreme Sports. It will be equipped with a semi-digital instrument console. Powering the Xtreme 200 S will be an all-new 200cc, single-cylinder engine. The motor showcased at the 2016 Expo delivers 18.6PS of power at 8,500rpm and maximum torque of 17.2Nm at 6,000 rpm. We hope Hero engineers tune the powerplant for more grunt to take the fight to the competitors. The new Xtreme 200 S will also be the only motorcycle in Hero’s current lineup to get a monoshock suspension.

Hero Dare:

Hero’s domination in the commuter segment has helped it become the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India. However, one segment where it hasn’t achieved the same kind of success is the scooter space, where Honda has ruled the roost. Also, Hero has no offering in the 125cc scooter space which has seen a steady rise in the recent past. To address this, Hero will launch a new 125cc scooter called the Dare at the 2018 Auto Expo. It was first showcased as a concept at the 2014 Auto Expo and we expect the production version to carry the same sharp and sleek styling with a few design updates.

We expect the new Hero 125cc scooter to get features like LED lighting, digital console, external fuel filler cap and mobile charger. Hero hasn’t shared any details of the new powerplant, but, the 125cc single-cylinder engine might deliver around 8.5PS of power and 10.5Nm of peak torque. Hero has loaded the upcoming 125cc scooter with quality underpinnings like telescopic forks, a front disc brake and alloy wheels. The Hero Dare will be priced around Rs 60,000 and will battle it out against the Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access 125 and the Honda Grazia.

Hero Xpulse:

Remember the Hero Impulse? It was the first dual-purpose motorcycle for the masses, but, sadly the market didn’t seem to be ready for it then. A high asking price and the lack of grunt from the 150cc motor meant that the Impulse had a short stint in our two-wheeler space. Things are different now - buyers are more aware and hence, dual-purpose motorcycles are in demand. And now, Hero will be re-entering this segment with the new Xpulse. The company had showcased the Xpulse concept at the 2017 EICMA motorcycle show in Italy and the upcoming motorcycle will make its India debut at the 2018 Auto Expo. And we have to say, the new motorcycle certainly looks the part with its rugged design and large panniers. Hero officials have confirmed that the showcased Xpulse wasn’t the production version and it will be developed further, before it’s launched later this year or by early 2019.

Powering the new Hero Xpulse will be the same engine seen on the upcoming Xtreme 200 S. It pumps out 18.6PS of power at 8,500rpm and a maximum torque of 17.2Nm at 6,000 rpm. However, we feel that Hero engineers will tune the motor and gear ratios for better low-end performance to make it easier to ride on trails and off the road. To tackle tough terrain, the motorcycle has been equipped with a long travel suspension and dual-purpose tyres. We expect the Hero Xpulse to be priced under Rs 1.5 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will rival the Royal Enfield Himalayan which retails for Rs 1.70 lakh (ex-showroom).