2020 Hero Xpulse BS6 witnesses a marginal drop in output figures but gains oil-cooling system
The Hero Xpulse dual-purpose motorcycle has finally received the much needed BS6 emission upgrades. The updated model is priced at INR 1,11,790 (ex-showroom, New Delhi). This represents a price hike of nearly INR 6,000.
What has changed in the 2020 Hero Xpulse BS6?
The 2020 Hero Xpulse BS6 continues to employ the fuel-injected 199 cc single-cylinder engine but it now benefits from an oil-cooling system. The power and torque outputs, as with most BS6 updates, witness a marginal drop but the difference in real-world conditions would be hardly noticeable. The BS6-ready motor produces 17.8 hp (0.3 hp lower) and 16.45 Nm (0.65 Nm lower). The transmission continues to be a 5-speed unit.
In addition to engine changes, the motorcycle also features a revised exhaust system with an additional catalytic converter near the belly. The exhaust tube has been rerouted and the bash plate has been revised to accommodate the new component. There are no other visual changes.
Feature highlights of 2020 Hero Xpulse BS6
The 2020 Hero Xpulse BS6 carries forward the equipment without any changes. Salient features include LED headlight and taillight, long-travel suspension, fully digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity, front and rear disc brakes with single-channel ABS, spoke wheels, and of course, dual-purpose tyres.
The motorcycle is available in five color options namely Panther Black, White, Matte Grey, Sports Red and Matte Green. The motorcycle weights 157 kg and has a fuel tank capacity of 13 liter.
The Hero Xpulse 200 is the only authentic dual-purpose motorcycle in its price and displacement segment. So, it has no direct rivals but alternative options in that displacement includes its own sibling – the Xtreme 200S, TVS Apache RTR 200 and KTM Duke 200. However, these motorcycles cater to different tastes. At this price point, the Xpulse undercuts some of smaller engined motorcycles, making it a good value for money.
Like all OEMs, Hero Motocorp has been witnessing significant drop in sales during this pandemic. In June 2020, the world’s largest two wheeler maker (in terms of volume) managed to clock 4,50,744 units in the domestic market which represents a YoY decline of 26.89%.
Things are expected to get better in a few months time as suggested by the upward trend in month-on-month sales figures. The company recently introduced the radical Xtreme 160R naked bike and has also updated almost all of its existing products to BS6 standards.