Hero Xpulse 421 spotted in Ladakh! The Big ADV is getting closer to launch
Hero MotoCorp’s upcoming adventure motorcycle has once again been spotted on public roads. The latest test mule was spotted in Ladakh. The motorcycle, expected to be called the Xpulse 421, was seen undergoing high-altitude testing in the Himalayan region.Although the motorcycle remains heavily camouflaged, several key details are visible. The front end features a rally-inspired design with a tall windshield and high-mounted LED headlights integrated into the sharp-styled fascia. The fuel tank and seat design also hint at its adventure-oriented intent. Compared to the bulky front end, the back half looks relatively slim.Suspension duties will likely be handled by long-travel USD front forks and rear monoshock. While the exact specs remain under wraps, some level of suspension adjustability is expected, potentially including compression and rebound adjustment at the front and preload at the rear.The test bike appears to ride on a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel wrapped in dual purpose tires. Whether Hero opts for tubeless tires or conventional tube-type units remains to be seen. Braking is expected to come from a front disc with radially mounted calipers and a rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS.Powering the upcoming adventure bike will be an all-new 421 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. Hero MotoCorp hasn’t revealed official power figures yet, but the bike is expected to produce around 40 bhp, putting it in direct competition with the likes of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the KTM 390 Adventure. The engine is likely to be mated to a six-speed gearbox.The latest prototype also reveals a digital instrument console, which is likely to be a TFT screen with smartphone connectivity. Features such as turn-by-turn navigation, calls and SMS alerts are expected. Hero is also likely to equip the bike with a host of electronic rider aids, including ride modes, traction control, cruise control and variable ABS. Although the company has not announced an official launch schedule, continued testing in extreme conditions shows that the bike is slowly approaching production. We can expect a global launch at EICMA later this year, followed by an India launch in 2027.
Post Comment