In 10 Pics: Hero XPulse 200 4V New vs Old - Differences Explained

Are the changes substantial enough to make a difference?

Hero Motocorp has launched the updated version of the XPulse 200 4V, which gets a whole host of changes as compared to its predecessor. But what exactly? Here’s the lowdown:

New headlight and fascia

The 2023 XPulse gets a revised headlight featuring LED DRLs that make an ‘H’ symbol. More importantly, it now gets LED projector lamps, which Hero claims offer better illumination, a welcome change from the previous all-LED unit. Besides, you can ride the bike with only the DRLs on.

The new model also gets a 60mm taller flyscreen, which should reduce buffeting at high speeds. Additionally, the knuckle guards are dual tone closed loop units, which offer much better protection than the single-piece brush guards from before.

Revised tech

The new XPulse gets the same digital instrument cluster as the outgoing model. However, it now gets three switchable ABS modes that can be toggled via the buttons on the console. While the Road mode retains the usual single-channel ABS function, the Off-road mode limits intervention for gravel and sandy terrains. And finally, the Rally mode cuts ABS intervention up front as well. That said, both old and new bikes retain the turn-by-turn navigation and other smartphone-connected features. Besides, the USB port on the new bike is not only closer to the console (from the previous bike’s underseat location), but its capacity has been uprated as well.

Updated riding position

The previous-gen XPulse had an upright riding posture, well suited for both road and off-road riding. The footpegs on the new one, though, are now 35mm lower and 8mm rear set, for what seems to be a slightly sportier riding stance.

Engine

As with most recent updates, the motor is now BS6.2-compliant, and comes equipped with OBD-2 and E20 (meaning it can run on fuel mix with 80 percent petrol and 20 percent ethanol) fuel compatibility as well. But that’s not all: thought the 199.6cc 4-valve air-cooled with oil cooler engine makes an unchanged 19.1PS and 17.35Nm, peak power now comes at 8000rpm, which is 500rpm lower than before.

(Kinda) New variant 

The XPulse 200 4V also gets a more hardcore Pro variant (earlier launched as the limited Rally Edition variant). The Pro variant gets – as standard – a fully adjustable front fork with 250mm travel and a fully adjustable rear monoshock with 220mm wheel travel. This, along with the taller handlebar (courtesy the handlebar risers) and of course the massive 270mm ground clearance, mean that it’ll be the perfect off-road machine.

Now, though its 850mm seat height isn’t too approachable, it’s still 5mm lower than the KTM 390 Adventure. And in any case, the slimness of the machine means you don’t need to be especially tall to ride it. And to go with the aforementioned changes, the Pro variant gets a longer gear lever (compatible with most touring/motocross boots) and a longer side stand as well.

And finally, while the Pro variant can be had in a single ‘Pro White’ colour, the standard bike can be had in an unchanged three colours: Matte Nexus Blue, Techno Blue (earlier called Polestar Blue), and Sports Red. 

Summing up, the 2023 XPulse 200 4V, even in its standard avatar, is a lot more desirable than before, thanks to the useful and tangible updates. And considering it price: Rs 1,43,516 (Rs 4,750 more than before) for the standard and Rs 1,50,891 for the the Pro variant, it cements its spot as the go-to entry-level off-roader. (all prices ex-showroom Delhi)