No doubt Hero MotoCorp is working on a more powerful version of the XPulse. In 2011, the Hero Impulse was launched in the Indian market, but after a few years, the motorcycle was discontinued due to poor sales. Then in 2019, Hero MotoCorp launched the XPulse 200, which was quite popular in the Indian market despite being a dual-sport motorcycle similar to the Impulse. The motorcycle was so successful that Hero MotoCorp made a rally version and a 4V version.
The more powerful XPulse has been spotted on Indian roads a few times. In fact, it was caught on camera during a high-altitude test in Ladakh. The platform of the motorcycle was also found. Now the XPulse 421 has been featured in the official Hero MotoSports reel.
However, there is a catch. The motorcycles in the reels are race cars that will not go into production. What will go into production is the engine and chassis. The motorcycle has a high seat and a plastic fuel tank. In comparison, the current XPulse uses a heavier metal fuel tank.
The production spec version of the XPulse 400 looks different than the one pictured. (Photo credit: Instagram/abhinavbhatt19)
Minimal bodywork, exhaust and suspension won’t make it to the production-spec version. All of these changes were made to reduce the weight of the motorcycle and improve the performance of the engine.
XPulse 421 was discovered near Khardungla Pass. (Image credit: YouTube/Unboxing Oneself)
The production-spec version is expected to be called the XPulse 400 and launch around mid-2024. It will use the same engine as the race-spec version. The engine has a capacity of 421 cc and will be liquid cooled. The engine will not be underpowered, the source said. As such, expect around 40 hp and 35 Nm of peak torque. This would address some of the biggest concerns of current owners, which was that the XPulse 200 felt a little underpowered.
First published date: Feb 25, 2023, 10:07am CST
https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/two-wheelers/hero-xpulse-421-spotted-in-its-race-avatar-ahead-of-the-official-launch-41677298016977.html