We recently rode Hero’s latest dual-sport motorcycle, the Xpulse 210 in Udaipur. While the bike was launched earlier this year, we can now tell you whether it is worth the purchase after spending some time with it.
On the design front, the Xpulse 210 isn’t very far from its predecessor. It dons a similar silhouette along with more muscle and some notable revisions. The bike is equipped with a similar round-shaped headlight and gets a tall stance and a single-piece seat. But with the new liquid-cooling setup in place, the front portion of the Xpulse 210 looks buff compared to the 200.
Another stand-out factor and something we specifically like about the Xpulse 210 is the blacked-out upswept exhaust. While it is not only slim, the exhaust note too is quite raspy and likeable, almost like a dirtbike but much more sophisticated.
The highlight here is the new 210cc engine with liquid cooling and DOHC. Although its base is similar to that of the Karizma 210’s motor, Hero has made a bunch of changes including a newly designed cooling system, intakes, and exhaust as well. The motor is mated to a six-speed gearbox.
Speaking of the larger motor and the extra cog, these offer a much better midrange to the Xpulse. This also offers more torque around 90kmph and the highway riding gets easier. However, there are some vibrations around the said speed but nothing bothersome. We feel the gearbox could have been slicker but the gearshifts are effortless.
Hero has employed features including LED illumination, a 4.2-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity, dual-channel ABS with three modes, a tall windscreen, knuckle guards, and a rear luggage rack.
Even with its long-travel suspension and a 21-inch front wheel, the Hero Xpulse 210 is notably nimble and handles well. While it doesn’t change direction swiftly, it’s far from being lazy.
But what about the build quality, braking, and comfort levels? And should you spend Rs. 1.86 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) on the Xpulse 210? We recommend you read our first ride review to get the answers.