Hero MotoCorp has begun its journey in the premium motorcycle business. While the company eluded the segment for the longest time, it’s now making headway with launches like the Xoom and Xtreme 160R 4V. Now, a latest update reveals that the two-wheeler giant is working on a new premium motorcycle dubbed as the Hero Xtreme 440R, which will arrive as early as next year.
No prizes for guessing but the upcoming offering is expected to get the same motor as the Harley-Davidson X440 that is scheduled for launch on July 3, 2023. The 440cc single-cylinder engine has been co-developed by Harley and will see both companies replicate a similar partnership as BMW Motorrad and TVS Motor Company.
The upcoming Hero Xtreme 440R is expected to be a streetfighter, expanding the nameplate further and creating a new flagship offering for the company. The bike will take on highly crowded segment competing against offerings from KTM, Royal Enfield, Husqvarna, Zontes, Kawasaki and more.
Unlike the Harley though, which is a modern-retro offering, the Hero Xtreme 440r will be more modern and futuristic in shape and style. It will also get premium components, as the source suggests. There’s no word on the specifications of the upcoming offering but it’ll be safe to expect about 35PS and 30Nm of peak torque from the motor. It could also get a slipper clutch, ride-by-wire, riding modes and more. However, none of this has been confirmed yet.
The Xtreme 440R is still about a year away and we expect Hero to introduce the model around the festive season next year. The bike will not only cater to the domestic market but exports as well. Expect prices to be aggressive, which will give the bike maker an edge despite the late entry into the segment.
Hero’s premium motorcycle strategy also include reviving the Karizma with the Karizma XMR 210. There are more bikes likely based on the 440cc platform, while a premium 125cc offering is also likely. The new premium offerings will be sold through new dealerships that will cater to premium buyers. It’s safe to say that Hero is planning an overhaul of its business and it will interesting to see it take shape in the coming months.
