Hero Xpulse 421 Okay, real talk – when I first heard Hero was dropping a bigger Xpulse, I kinda shrugged. Like, “Cool, another 200cc variant?” But then the specs leaked. And holy crap, this 421cc version might actually be the adventure bike we’ve been begging for!
First Impressions: This Thing Looks Proper
You know how some ADVs try too hard to look tough? Not this one. The Xpulse 421 nails that sweet spot between “I can handle dirt” and “I won’t look stupid in city traffic.”
That high fender? Check.
Knobby tires that actually mean business? Yep.
Exhaust pipe that won’t drown in a puddle? Thank god.
But here’s what gets me – it’s not trying to be some wannabe BMW GS. It’s got its own vibe, you know? Like it’s saying “Yeah I’m affordable, but I can still rip.”
Hero Xpulse 421 Under the Hood: Finally, Some Real Power!
Let’s be honest – the old Xpulse’s 200cc engine was… adequate. But this new 421? Now we’re talking!
From what we’re hearing:
• Liquid-cooled (about time!)
• 40+ horsepower (that’s Himalayan 450 territory)
• 6-speed gearbox (highway cruising just got real)
• And get this – might even have ride modes
I rode my friend’s Xpulse 200 last month to Ladakh. Great bike, but passing trucks? Forget about it. This 421 version? That problem might be solved.
Features That Actually Matter
Hero’s not just throwing flashy junk on this thing. The features make sense:
• Adjustable suspension (because one setting never works for everything)
• Proper bash plate (I’ve cracked one too many engine covers)
• LED lights that actually light up the road (unlike some bikes I could name)
• And that digital dash looks clean – not like some spaceship console
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
Let’s compare, shall we?
Against the Himalayan 450:
- Probably lighter (RE bikes feel like riding a buffalo)
- Might be cheaper by like ₹50k
- But let’s see if it has that RE character
Against the KTM 390 Adventure:
- Less power, but way better off-road
- Probably half the maintenance costs
- Won’t try to kill you in the rain
Against the old Xpulse 200:
- Like comparing a moped to a proper bike (sorry not sorry)
Who’s Gonna Love This Bike?
If you’re:
• Tired of heavy ADVs that suck off-road
• Want something that won’t bankrupt you
• Actually ride dirt, not just pose at cafes
• Need a bike that works in cities too
…this might be your dream machine.
The Big Question: Will It Deliver?
Look, specs are great and all, but:
• Will the engine feel refined or vibey?
• How’s the seat comfort for long rides?
• Is Hero’s service network ready for proper ADVs?
Only a proper test ride will tell. But man, I’m excited to try it.
Also Read : Best Bikes for Killer Mileage in India (2025): Save Those Rupees!
Final Thoughts
Hero might have just built the adventure bike India actually needs – not some overpriced status symbol, but a proper do-it-all machine that normal people can afford.
If they nail the pricing (please be under ₹3 lakh), this could change the game.
What do you think? Would you ditch your current bike for this? Hit me up in the comments!
#HeroXpulse421 #RealWorldBike #AdventureOnABudget #FinallySomePower #IndianBikersUnite
PS – Hero, if you’re reading this, send me a test bike already! 😅