Hero Xpulse 160: There’s a new adventure brewing at Hero MotoCorp, this one however, not just for the big boys. The long rumoured Hero Xpulse 160 has been spotted being tested on Indian roads, suggesting history may be repeating itself, and affordable, entry-level adventure motoring could be back with a vengeance. Maybe the sweet spot, if you thought the Xpulse 210 was a bit too much, or the old Impulse was a bit too little.
Slimmer, Meaner But Just as Familiar
The test mule, heavily camouflaged but still Hero underneath, appears to be a smaller brother of the Xpulse 210. The design language is made up very clearly with primordial references—tall stance, upright ergonomics, and the distinct ADV silhouette. But get in close, and you’ll notice the discreet cost-cutting: smaller disc brakes, an oil-cooling radiator absent and no windshield up front. Even the knuckle guards have been taken back to something more retro, right back to the early Impulse.
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Heart of the Matter: 160cc Engine
And the real headline is what is under the tank. All cues point towards the proven 4-valve, 163cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine from the Xtreme 160R 4V and one would expect power and torque figures in the region of 16.9 PS and 14.6 Nm, respectively, mated to a 5-speed gearbox — enough to make city commutes exciting and weekend trails tempting. Rounding off, the new 200cc mill in the Hero XPulse is estimated to stay strongly reliable and frugal and with a mileage of 45-48 kmpl.
Platform and Hardware
Hero appears to have been sensible in its foundation. It is also believed the Xpulse 160 will feature the same set of wheels, long-travel telescopic forks and monoshock at the rear as the bigger Xpulse siblings. That is to say, actual off-road ability, and not just pseudo-ADV looks. The chassis also appears leaner, which means it should weigh less and have a lower seat height, serving as a friendly option for short riders and newcomers to motorcycling.
Features: Returning to Basics, But Not Going Low-tech
Fancy TFT screens and riding modes they are not. The Xpulse 160 should feature probably a digital instrument cluster, basic Bluetooth connectivity, and LED lighting—just enough tech to keep it modern and ensure it doesn’t wear a sticker price that veers toward the north. The emphasis is clearly on function over frills, something that will no doubt attract base-level buyers wanting a workman-like, no-nonsense machine.
Place in the Novel: The Impulse Spirit Again?
There is some nostalgia in the mix. Following the dissolution of Hero-Honda, the original Impulse was India’s first modern adventure bike, ending up ahead of its time. Now, with the ADV segment in a frenzy, Hero looks poised to resurrect that formula—cheap, light, and actually off-road capable. There are even rumors the bike could bring back the “Impulse” nameplate, or keep the Xpulse badge for likeness in the brand.
Release Schedule and Price
Hero hasn’t officially said anything, but intense road-testing is usually around the time a launch is near. Look forward to the Xpulse 160 making its public debut in the second half of 2025, most likely during the festive period. In terms of pricing, Hero is expected to price it lower than the Xpulse 210, which sells for ₹1.76 lakh to ₹1.86 lakh (ex-showroom). An expected price bracket of ₹1.30-1.50 lakh, would definitely make it an attractive option for young riders or perhaps a budget friendly adventurer.
The Verdict
If you’ve been looking for an adventure bike that doesn’t break the bank but offers a world of capability, the Xpulse 160 it might just tick the box. It’s Hero’s way of saying, you don’t have to have deep pockets or long legs to go chasing horizons. In a market starved for accessible ADVs, this tidy little Xpulse could very well be the hair that reignites the segment — again.
So, it’s a new adventure’s in town… Oh wait, that’s not enough, that adventure is far from over.