Hero Working on New 150cc-400cc Bikes: Earlier this year, Hero MotoCorp launched three new motorcycles in the 200cc segment to grab a renowned position in the premium portfolio segment. The motorcycles include the off-road adventure bike XPulse 200, its touring version XPulse 200T, and the Xtreme 200S, the fully-faired version of the Xtreme 200R.
According to a recent report, the brand is nowhere near completion of its expansion plans for India. They are working on new 150cc-400cc bikes, however, no other information has been shared on the same. Speaking to the Economic Times, Sanjay Bhan, Head, Sales and Aftersales, stated: “We will be launching some bikes with engine capacity above 150cc to 400cc in coming years.”
No other details such as the name of the motorcycles or the exact launch timeline have been shared by the company. According to the recent reports, Hero MotoCorp is likely to invest INR 1,500 crore on the expansion. In order to mark its presence in the premium segment, the brand also has plans to revamp its showrooms to complement the premium motorcycle range.
Coming to the expansion plans in the 150cc-400cc segment, we can expect the brand to launch the much-awaited Hero XF3R, which made its debut at the Auto Expo 2016. The production version of the 300cc streetfighter is likely to be launched somewhere around the festive season next year. Hero MotoCorp may also unveil the prototype model of the much-awaited 300cc Karizma sports bike in 2020. In terms of design, the Karizma 300 would most probably be inspired by the Hero HX250R concept.
The Hero XF3R concept model was showcased with a 300cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC single-cylinder engine capable of churning out a maximum power of around 30HP with a peak torque of around 30Nm. It will feature dual-channel ABS and an all-LED headlight in addition to a fully-digital instrument console.
When launched in India, the 300cc Hero motorcycle will compete in the market with the likes of Bajaj Dominar 400, KTM 250 Duke, Suzuki Gixxer 250, Husqvarna 250 Twins, and the Yamaha FZ25. The upcoming fully-faired 300cc Hero sports bike would be competing with the likes of TVS Apache RR310, Honda CBR250R, Suzuki Gixxer SF 250, and the Yamaha Fazer 250.
