Hero XPulse 200 4V: Review Photo Gallery

Let's check out if the updates have made the XPulse 200 4V any better

Hero MotoCorp has finally updated the XPulse 200 by making a few but crucial changes. The entry-level ADV now gets a 4-valve setup for the engine and a few cosmetic updates. We took the Xpulse 200 4V for a spin to see whether these changes translate to better dynamics in the real world, and here's a low-down to what we found, in images. 

The front profile of the XPulse 200 looks similar to its 2-valve variant. However, now it gets an updated circular LED headlight, which Hero claims to be 21% brighter than before. 

The overall stance and design of the XPulse 200 has been retained as it now similarly features a tall windscreen, a sharp break upfront, aluminium underbelly pan, single-piece seat, tail rack and an upswept exhaust. However, Hero now offers three new colour options: Trail Blue, Blitz Blue and Red Raid. 

On the features front, it comes equipped with toothed brake pedals, knuckle-guards which is an update over the 2V model while the ADV has retained the fully digital Bluetooth-enabled LCD instrument cluster that displays turn-by-turn navigation, gear Indicator, Eco mode Indicator and call alerts. 

Powering the Hero XPulse 200 4V’s engine churns out 1.02PS and 0.9Nm more than the 2-valve variant. Besides, the five-speed gearbox now gets revised gear ratios (1st, 4th and 5th being taller and 2nd and 3rd shorter than before). Other notable changes also include a new 45-tooth rear sprocket (7 teeth more) and a bigger 7-fin oil-cooler (two more than the old one). 

All these updates have not only improved the overall performance but has also improved the drivability at low speeds massively. So now you can ride the ADV at lower speeds in a higher gear without worrying about stalling the bike thanks to the lengthened gear ratios. 

However, beyond 8000rpm there are quite some vibrations that can be felt on the foot pegs and also the engine sounds harsh post 95kmph. The sweet spot for cruising is between 85kmph and 95kmph. 

Coming to the real-world mileage, the XPulse 200 4V has managed to deliver us 42.28kmpl on the highway which is almost identical to the 2V XPulse’s tested figure (42.37kmpl). The four-valve setup has resulted in better combustion efficiency while offering more performance. A win-win, we’d say!

The ride of the entry-level ADV is taken care of by a 37mm telescopic fork at the front and a 10-step adjustable monoshock at the rear. The initial stroke of the long travel suspension is tuned to be on the softer side and that complemented by a plush seat not only provides comfort but also inspires confidence over off-road. While most of the riders will appreciate the softer suspension setup, experienced folks would want a firmer setup while off-roading.

All in all, the Hero XPulse 200 4V is a much more wholesome motorcycle than the XPulse 200 2V, and the nominal premium of Rs 5,000 (the bike retails at Rs 1.28 lakh ex-showroom Delhi) for such crucial updates make it a worthy buy in its segment.