Hero MotoCorp’s new flagship adventure bike will sit above the Xpulse 210 and take on the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure
Hero MotoCorp is working on a bigger, more powerful addition to its Xpulse range. The upcoming Xpulse 421 was first showcased as a concept at EICMA 2024 and has since been spotted testing on Indian roads, including in the high-altitude terrain of Ladakh.
The Xpulse 421 is expected to use an all-new, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine. Despite the motorcycle’s name, its final displacement and performance figures have not been officially confirmed. Current estimates suggest output could be around 40 hp and 40 Nm, with a six-speed gearbox.
Unlike the Xpulse 200 and Xpulse 210, the new motorcycle appears to use a tubular steel trellis frame. This is a purpose-built platform rather than a larger version of the existing Xpulse architecture. The additional performance should make it better suited to highway touring, particularly when riding with luggage or a pillion, while retaining the ability to tackle rough roads and trails.
The test motorcycle has been seen with a tall windscreen, substantial fuel tank, upright riding position and long-travel suspension. It gets upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, along with disc brakes at both ends and wire-spoke wheels. Spy shots suggest a 21-inch front wheel and a smaller rear wheel, although the final wheel and tyre specifications remain unconfirmed. The high-mounted exhaust, generous ground clearance and protective hardware visible on the test bike reinforce its adventure-focused intent.
The cockpit appears to feature a large colour TFT instrument display, accompanied by redesigned switchgear. A dedicated mode button suggests that multiple riding modes could be offered. A cruise-control switch is also visible on the test motorcycle, an interesting addition for a bike expected to handle long-distance touring. Other features that could make the final specification include switchable ABS, traction control and smartphone connectivity. These have not been confirmed by Hero.
The Xpulse 421 is expected to make its global debut at EICMA 2026, with an India launch potentially following in 2027. Hero has not officially confirmed either timeline. Once launched, it is expected to compete with the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure. Pricing estimates currently place it around Rs 2.85 lakh to Rs 3 lakh, ex-showroom, but the final price will depend on the equipment and variant line-up.
