I still remember the first time I rode the original XPulse. Light, nimble, fun, but when you pushed it hard on the highway or hit a rough trail, you knew it had limits. That’s why this new Hero XPulse 421 feels like such a big deal. It’s not just a facelift or a minor update, it’s a proper leap into the big league.
From what we’ve seen in design patents and EICMA teasers, this bike means business. There’s a tall visor up front, a sharp flat headlamp, and serious chunk in the radiator shrouds. It’s like the XPulse went to the gym and came out trail-ready and battle-hardened. The underbelly guard and hand guards scream off-road intent, and that rear parcel rack tells me it’s built for long rides, gear, tent, the works.
The heart of it is a brand-new 421cc liquid-cooled engine (some say closer to 450cc), and if the speculations are right, we’re looking at 35–45 bhp. That’s proper ADV territory. A 6-speed gearbox should help it cruise comfortably on highways, but what excites me more is the promise of low-end torque for trails. Add to that long-travel USD forks, a rear monoshock, and those 21-inch and 18-inch spoked wheels with blocky tires, it’s practically asking for dirt.
But Hero hasn’t forgotten the modern rider. A 4-inch color TFT display with Bluetooth, LED lighting, ride-by-wire throttle, ride modes, traction control, and even a USB charger, it’s all there. They’ve really tried to balance old-school adventure with new-age tech.
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If the expected price of ₹2.40 to ₹3.00 lakh holds true, the Hero XPulse 421 could really shake up the segment. It’s gunning for the Himalayan 450, KTM 390 Adventure, and maybe even some upcoming big names.
The production model is likely to debut at EICMA 2025, with a launch in India expected by early 2026, possibly around February or March.
And honestly? I can’t wait to throw a leg over it. This feels like the XPulse we’ve all been waiting for.
