Hero readies XPulse 421, Karizma XMR 250 among new bikes
Hero MotoCorp is lining up the Karizma XMR 250, XPulse 421 adventure bike and other new models to expand into the premium segment.
Demand for premium and adventure motorcycles is rising steadily in the Indian market, and Hero MotoCorp is preparing to strengthen its position in this segment with a lineup of upcoming bikes. The company's list of upcoming models is said to include a sports bike, a large adventure bike, a dual-sport model and an electric motorcycle. Some of these models are reported to be close to launch, while firm details on others are yet to emerge.
Leading the list is the Hero Karizma XMR 250, which is expected to be unveiled soon. The bike has already been put on display in India and a production-ready version has also been spotted. It is expected to get the same 249cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine as the Xtreme 250R, capable of producing around 30hp and 25Nm of torque. It may also come with a 6-speed gearbox, USD front forks, a monoshock, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-channel ABS and a TFT display. The bike could be priced above Rs 2 lakh.
The other major model is the Hero XPulse 421, which could become the company's largest adventure bike. It is being tested at various locations and reports suggest its development has reached an advanced stage. It may get a new platform and a liquid-cooled engine of around 421cc capacity, along with long-travel suspension, a trellis frame, a large TFT display, riding modes and cruise control. Its global debut is expected at EICMA 2026, while its India launch could take place by late 2026 or early 2027. The bike could rival models such as the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
Hero has also filed a design patent in India for a smaller-capacity dual-sport bike. This model features an air-cooled engine, a kick-starter and conventional hardware. Its engine capacity is estimated to be between 150cc and 200cc, though filing a patent does not necessarily mean an India launch is confirmed. The bike could also be developed for export markets.
There is also talk of Hero working on a "Splendor Electric". It is said that this bike could arrive around 2027, but the company has not yet made any official announcement regarding its price, range or launch date. Confirmed details on all these Hero models will only be known in the time ahead.
