KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Exceptional off-roading capability with long-travel suspension.
- Adventure-specific ergonomics for comfortable riding posture.
- Engine struggles with power at high revs.
- Lacks advanced features and better braking performance.
- Value-for-money adventure bike for beginners.
The Hero XPulse 200 4V is currently the most affordable Adventure motorcycle on sale in India. Also available in a Rally Spec version, it becomes more potent when on rough terrains. The Xpulse 200 4V is a purposefully built machine. It is just a great package for enthusiasts who are starting their adventure journey. We recently got an opportunity to ride the Hero Xpulse 200 4V Rally Edition and here's a detailed review of the most value-for-money adventure motorcycle in India. Before moving ahead, be a member of the most prestigious 91Wheels WhatsApp Community of petrolheads to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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Design
The Xpulse 200 4V Rally Edition is undoubtedly a more capable machine than its standard version. The Rally Edition easily differentiates with its visible rally-inspired design and equipment. These elements include a taller suspension, significantly increasing the ground clearance. The Rally spec XPulse 200 4V also comes with an adjustable longer travel front fork and a fully adjustable rear mono shock unit. The standard suspension works well in off-roading zones, but you can make it take it to a more plushier and firmer side according to your comfort.
Apart from this, you get a flatter seat, a raised handlebar, a more comfortable riding posture, a revised gear lever and a brake pedal. All these components provide the highest level of comfort during your adventure journeys.
My opinion: I have no major complaints with the Xpulse's 200 4V Rally Edition's design. However, riders under 5.10 may find it difficult to handle this motorcycle because it has a seat height of 891mm.
Engine: A Refined Unit
The Xpulse 200 4V Rally Edition gets the same 200cc, oil-cooled 4-valve engine on offer with the base variant. The provided powerhouse generates 19.1 PS of power and 17.35 Nm of torque. As per my own experience, the engine has enough grunt for both city riding and off-roading. Additionally, the four-valve setup significantly improves the engine's ventilation, eventually providing better low-end torque.
Transmission duties are handled by a 5-speed gearbox which feels very smooth during gearshifts. Apart from this, the Xpulse 200 4V gear ratios are admirable when it comes to off-roading.
My opinion: In terms of power, I found Xpulse 200 4V potent enough for off-roading. But the powertrain feels lacklustre on high revs or highway cruising. Also, it creates high vibration on full-throttle which becomes unavoidable.
Ride and Handling Comfort
The Hero XPulse 200 4V Rally Edition's higher ground clearance and long travel suspension make it a real adventure motorcycle. When compared to its rivals such as the Yezdi Adventure, the Xpulse 200 4V feels more stable during off-roading. The higher ground clearance works well when you hit rocky paths.
The Xpulse feels light and easy to ride which helps it escape tight trails. The Rally Edition's adventure-specific ergonomics provide a better and more comfortable riding stance. Even during standing-up position is also convenient and less fatiguing because the Xpulse has handlebar risers and flatter seats.
My opinion: In terms of handling, I found the Xpulse 200 4V behaviour more versatile and dynamic while off-roading. Even in the city, I often jumped over the speed breakers and the long travel suspension did its job well. Overall, I enjoyed the ride quality and comfort.
Features and Technology
The Xpulse 200 4V Rally Edition comes loaded with features such as a digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, integrated starter/engine cut-off button, LED headlights and taillights, single-channel ABS and seven-fin-oil cooled. Apart from this, I liked the throw of headlights during night rides.
My opinion: In terms of features and tech, I'm quite satisfied with what the Xpulse 200 4V offers. The set of features available with the ADV motorcycle is quite appreciable in this price segment.
What I Liked
| Off-roading capability |
| Suspension job |
| Adventure suitable ergonomics |
| Headlight throw |
What I Didn't Like
| Engine feels underpowered during high revs |
| Lack features |
| Braking performance |
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Verdict
The Hero XPulse 200 4V Rally Edition is an impressive entry-level adventure motorcycle with excellent off-roading capabilities, thanks to its long-travel suspension and adventure-focused ergonomics. However, it struggles with power at high revs and could benefit from better braking performance and additional features. Overall, it's a value-for-money option for new adventure enthusiasts.
