Khyati Sharma 2026-09-14
Hero MotoCorp appears to be working on a new dual-sport motorcycle, with a production-ready test bike recently spotted without camouflage. The motorcycle has a lightweight adventure-oriented design and could expand Hero's presence in the entry-level dual-sport segment.
The new motorcycle has also renewed speculation about the return of the Hero Impulse name. However, Hero MotoCorp has not officially confirmed whether the upcoming motorcycle will be called Impulse, Impulse 160 or carry a different name.
The motorcycle is believed to be a smaller-capacity model positioned below Hero's larger Xpulse motorcycles. Earlier sightings and design-patent details suggest that the bike could use an engine in the 150–200cc range.
Some reports have referred to the motorcycle as the possible Impulse 160, but this name remains speculative at present. Hero has not announced its official name, engine displacement or launch timeline.
The possibility of bringing back the Impulse name is particularly interesting because the original Hero Impulse was one of India's early road-legal dual-sport motorcycles. The model was discontinued after relatively weak demand, before Hero later introduced the Xpulse family.
The new motorcycle's design appears to follow a proper dual-sport approach rather than a conventional street-bike layout. It features a raised front mudguard, long-travel suspension, an upswept exhaust and a tall riding stance.
The patent design also shows a telescopic front fork and rear monoshock, along with disc brakes at both ends. The overall setup suggests that the motorcycle is intended to handle a combination of everyday roads and light off-road conditions.
The styling includes several elements that resemble Hero's existing motorcycles, while the overall silhouette has similarities with the earlier Impulse.
The design patent indicates an air-cooled engine without an oil cooler, suggesting a relatively small-capacity powertrain. Industry reports estimate the engine could fall somewhere in the 150–200cc category.
A kickstarter is also visible in the patent drawings. However, a production motorcycle for the Indian market could also be equipped with an electric starter and other modern equipment.
The exact engine capacity, power, torque and gearbox specifications have not been officially revealed.
| Expected Details | New Hero Dual-Sport Motorcycle |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hero MotoCorp |
| Motorcycle Type | Dual-Sport |
| Possible Name | Hero Impulse / Impulse 160* |
| Expected Engine | 150–200cc* |
| Engine Type | Air-Cooled* |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Fork* |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock* |
| Brakes | Disc Brakes* |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| EV | No |
| Status | Upcoming / Under Development |
| Launch Date | Not Confirmed |
If Hero MotoCorp introduces the motorcycle with a smaller engine and simpler mechanical package, it could potentially be positioned below the company's larger Xpulse models.
A lower price could make the motorcycle attractive to riders looking for an affordable dual-sport machine for daily commuting, touring and occasional trail riding.
However, pricing cannot be confirmed until Hero announces the motorcycle officially.
The possibility of the Impulse name returning is one of the biggest talking points surrounding the new motorcycle.
The original Impulse was launched in India as a lightweight dual-sport motorcycle and featured long-travel suspension, spoke wheels and a relatively simple powertrain. Hero eventually discontinued it, with the Xpulse later taking over the company's adventure-bike role.
The new motorcycle's styling has enough similarities to the old Impulse to fuel speculation about a revival, although Hero could ultimately introduce it under the Xpulse family or an entirely new name.
Although the motorcycle has been associated with Hero's Indian development activity, there is currently no official confirmation of its India launch date.
Some patent details also suggest that the motorcycle could be intended for export markets, particularly because of features such as a carburettor-related setup visible in the patent design. Therefore, it is too early to confirm whether the motorcycle will be sold in India in its current form.
If Hero MotoCorp decides to launch the motorcycle in India, it could occupy an interesting position in the affordable dual-sport segment. Its relatively simple mechanical package could help keep costs under control while the long-travel suspension and dual-sport design would give it more off-road capability than a conventional commuter motorcycle.
More information about the engine, name, features, pricing and launch timeline is expected once Hero officially reveals the motorcycle.
