Hero MotoCorp is planning to expand its 200cc lineup in India, hints of which arrived through the leaked patent image of an unknown 200cc motorcycle that seems to be based on the upcoming X-Pulse. The similarity is visible from the instrument console, an all-digital unit that was first seen on the adventure variant. The fuel tank is also similar in design and thus, hints at two versions of the X-Pulse in existence. The lower placement of exhaust means that this could be a premium city machine with better suspension travel, round headlight and thicker tires than the Xtreme 200R.
The rivalry will extend to TVS Apache RTR 200 and Bajaj Pulsar NS200, both of which are indirect rivals to Xtreme 200R. The use of a standard handlebar and thick seat padding explains Hero’s motive of bringing a comfortable machine for city use. Hero Moto Corp is expected to share the same 200cc, air-cooled engine on this motorcycle. However, they are expected to tune this one differently for more power and higher than before the performance quotient. The fuel injection version used on X-Pulse is the perfect layout for tougher competition to the existing bestsellers. Hero is expected to price the same under INR 1 lakh.
The upper limit, along with the placement of Xtreme 200R at INR 89,990, has already confirmed that more focus will go on part sharing among the three bikes. The time frame of around 1 year will be enough for Hero MotoCorp to test and launch this premium streetfighter for India. Also, it will help fans looking for a minimal design, maximum practicality gets the perfect product. The use of dual channel ABS may be doubtful at the moment but, expecting the same after 1 year won’t be a wrong guess. The front and rear fenders feel thicker than ever, hinting at better tires for sure.
