Hero Xpulse 200

Monsoon has set the national capital in its sights, and while the rest of the disturbed denizens complain about the floods, drowned vehicles and complain about the lack of infrastructure, this auto journalist couldn’t be happier. The timing couldn’t be more perfect for the introduction of the newest member of Auto Today’s long term fleet, the 2020 Xpulse 200 BS6. It is without a doubt the perfect motorcycle for the weather, being a light-agile and no-nonsense motorcycle that was built to take a beating. There are, however, some changes to the BS6 version, so this introduction will focus on what is new with the BS6 bike. For starters, BS6 has meant that the exhaust has been rerouted and a new bottle has made its appearance on the motorcycle. Additionally, this version will have no carb version in favour of fuel injection. As a result of these changes, the exhaust note changes slightly, gaining a bit of rasp over the previous version. Additionally, the mid-range seems to have a bit more punch although on paper the power figures remain unchanged with 17.8bhp from its 200cc motor. Last but in no way the least, Hero has worked on the seat adding a new layer of higher density foam which is a boon on longer rides. Meanwhile, Hero has managed to keep the essence of the Xpulse as a great off-road bike, that works surprisingly well as a city commuter too. Over the next few months, this report will focus on what it is like using the Xpulse as your daily rider as well as focus on some changes that can be made that can help you get the most out of this tremendously capable machine. For starters, don’t expect to see the Sari and the leg-guards as part of our next long-term test.

FOR STARTERS, BS6 HAS

MEANT THAT THE EXHAUST HAS BEEN REROUTED AND A NEW BOTTLE HAS MADE ITS APPEARANCE