Author: Rithin Paul
Back in 2017 we got a glimpse of what the X pulse would look like, in 2018 we got to see what its road ready version would look like and in 2019 the long wait of Hero MotoCorp finally launching the Xtreme 200 S, Xpulse 200 and the Xpulse 200T in India is finally over. With the addition of these three bikes, Hero now boasts of having four 200 cc bikes in its stable. The trio can be looked upon as affordable adventure bikes to explore the beautiful and challenging landscapes across our country. Bookings have started for the three and delivery will start late May
X pulse 200- most popular of the lot
The designing gone into develop this model in particular has paid off, for it looks like no other bike on Indian roads, it’s a very radical design imbibing the looks of a dirt bike. By its distinctive stance it makes its purpose clear of being a dual purpose motorcycle. The combination of the large rims at both ends give it an elevated stance. This accounts for the fact that it gives it a 220 mm ground clearance. Other off-roading traits found in the bike include the high handlebars and the narrow seating. Although not a looker, it will definitely make you look at it the second time.
The bike is equipped with fuel injection and the bike comes to life when you ride it past 100 kph. Riding dynamics are commendable although overtaking can be a pain. Highway cruising is good, but the engine feels a bit underpowered. Ride and handling are sublime, but the hard seat gives way. What it does exceptionally well is handling the rough stuff, throw it at a rough patch and it absorbs undulations rather well. It’s a fun machine to throw at most off road circuits and the bike doesn’t demand much allowing amateur off roaders to also have a delightful experience
X pulse 200 T – The tourer
The 200 T is a tourer, the suspension and the tyres found on this are different from X pulse. The tyres on the 200T are the exact same size as that of the x treme 200, it gets 17 inch wheels both at the front and back. The lesser suspension travel in the 200 T allows for better handling. It can be looked upon as a X pulse 200 with touring pedigree. Adding to the touring ability of the 200 T is the neatly designed instrument cluster. The instrument cluster can get connected via Bluetooth to your smartphone and can be used for navigational purposes adding to the touring pedigree of the bike. What can be a cause of concern for the 200 T is the fact that it can’t be used as a off-roader like the X pulse 200 neither is it as good a city commuter like the x-treme 200. Hero then have to sort out the cannibalistic nature of its products.
Xtreme 200 S – fully faired sports bike
Powering the Xtreme 200 S is the same 200cc air-cooled engine that generates 18PS of power and 17 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed transmission. It goes on to rival the Gixer, R15 V3 and the Pulsar 220 F. The retro sports styling with the slim LED headlamp looks very appealing. The body looks well proportioned and the black surround and tinted windscreen add a very sporty character to the 200 S. It is a faired up version of the 200 R and it also gets the Bluetooth connectivity as that of the X pulse cousins but the ABS in the 200 S works only on the front wheel.
The ride is similar to the 200 R, acceleration being quick at lower gears. At high throttle you begin to notice the 200 S to lose composure and vibrations are evident. The 200 S may not be best for full throttle racing, and is much better for urban travel. Pushing it at corners is going to be easy and it behaves exceptionally well. The tyres offer good grip and braking assures for good control overall.
Which of these should you have –
Prices being close to a lakh for the three bikes should tempt prospective buyers to get their hands on one of them. The work is cut out, if its off-roading its going to be the X pulse 200, if its touring its going to be the 200 T and if its urban commuting its going to be the Xtreme 200 S. All the three bikes are good looking and are stacked up with good features. Hero Moto Corp has done well from shifting to mass commuting bikes to road focused stylized bikes. Add to that Hero’s strong after market service and easy availability of spare parts. All this should definitely be a cause of concern for rival manufacturers.
