Hero Xpulse 210 Review: A More Powerful & Capable Off-Roader

The adventure motorcycle segment in India has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, and Hero MotoCorp has been an active player in this space with its Xpulse lineup. The latest addition, the Xpulse 210, brings significant upgrades in design, performance, and features, making it a more refined and capable machine for both on-road and off-road riding. We had the opportunity to test the new model in real-world conditions, and the experience highlighted how Hero has elevated the adventure riding experience with this offering. From improved power delivery to enhanced comfort and technology, the Xpulse 210 sets a new benchmark for entry-level adventure motorcycles.

Striking Design with Purposeful Updates
The Xpulse 210 carries forward the rugged character of its predecessors but with a more aggressive and modern appeal. The front end now features a redesigned round LED headlamp with distinctive LED DRLs, giving it a sharper look. The fuel tank has been reworked for a sleeker profile, while the new graphics add to its bold appearance. A practical addition is the grab bar positioned under the headlamp, allowing riders to lift the bike when tackling tricky off-road situations.

At the rear, the motorcycle gets an updated LED tail lamp, a redesigned fender, and a well-integrated luggage rack, further enhancing its adventure-ready persona. The upswept exhaust is positioned to offer better water-wading capability, ensuring riders can confidently tackle varied terrains. The engine casing now sports a stylish brass-coloured finish, adding to the overall premium feel of the motorcycle.

Comfort and Ergonomics for Long Rides
As soon as you get onto the Xpulse 210, it becomes evident that comfort has been a priority in its design. The tall stance and upright seating position remain unchanged, ensuring a commanding view of the road. The seat is well-cushioned, providing adequate support for extended rides, while the overall geometry of the bike allows for effortless handling, whether seated or standing on off-road trails.

The footpeg positioning ensures a natural and comfortable riding posture. The windscreen has also been reworked to offer better wind protection at higher speeds, making highway cruising more comfortable. With these refinements, the Xpulse 210 feels well-suited for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Improved Suspension and Braking Performance
One of the standout improvements in the Xpulse 210 is its upgraded suspension setup. The front telescopic forks now offer increased travel, while the rear monoshock ensures better absorption of rough surfaces. This translates to a more stable and controlled ride, whether navigating city roads or exploring rugged trails. The suspension effortlessly soaks up bumps, making off-road rides more enjoyable and confidence-inspiring.

Braking performance has also been enhanced with a dual-disc setup featuring a 276mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc, complemented by dual-channel ABS. While the braking feel may take some time to get used to, it offers reliable stopping power in different conditions.

More Power and Smoother Performance
At the heart of the Xpulse 210 is a new 210cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, borrowed from the Karizma XMR. With an output of 24.6 hp and 20.7 Nm of torque, this engine delivers a noticeable improvement in power over the previous model. The increased output makes highway cruising smoother and more effortless, allowing riders to maintain higher speeds without feeling underpowered.

The engine’s low-end torque is well-suited for off-road riding, ensuring strong traction on loose surfaces. Power delivery is linear, and the bike responds well across different terrains. Notably, it can pull smoothly even at lower speeds in higher gears, making city riding more convenient. While minor vibrations are noticeable around 7,000–7,500 rpm, they do not significantly affect the overall riding experience. The motorcycle feels most comfortable cruising between 70–80 kmph, though it can push beyond 100 kmph with ease, thanks to the addition of a sixth gear.

Modern Features for a Better Riding Experience
Hero has equipped the Xpulse 210 with modern features to enhance convenience and usability. The top-spec Pro variant comes with a fully digital TFT instrument cluster, offering Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts, message notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation. This makes it a more tech-savvy choice for adventure riders who rely on navigation assistance. Hazard lamps are also included, adding to safety during low-visibility conditions.

A Worthy Upgrade for Adventure Enthusiasts
With a starting price of ₹1.76 lakh (ex-showroom) and the top-spec variant priced at ₹1.86 lakh, the Xpulse 210 offers great value for both new and experienced adventure riders. It is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with more power, better suspension, enhanced design, and modern technology. Whether you are an off-road enthusiast or someone looking for a versatile motorcycle for daily riding and occasional adventures, the Xpulse 210 is a compelling choice.