Hero XPulse 421 Spotted Testing in India; Bigger ADV Bike Nears Production

Hero MotoCorp’s upcoming XPulse 421 has once again been spotted undergoing high-altitude testing, with fresh spy images emerging from Khardung La, India.

The test mule, which follows its initial design preview at EICMA 2024, now appears much closer to a production-ready form and gives the clearest indication yet of Hero’s most ambitious adventure motorcycle to date.

As seen in the images, the XPulse 421 test bike clearly showcases a significant step up in size and presence compared to the XPulse 210.

It carries a taller stance, a more substantial fuel tank, and broader bodywork that gives it a proper mid-cap ADV identity. At the front, a tall windscreen dominates the design, paired with what appears to be a vertically stacked headlamp setup.

The overall silhouette is completed by a long, single-piece seat with a sculpted rider section and a slimmer rear end, keeping the focus on both touring comfort and off-road practicality.

One of the most import upgrades is seen in the console area, where the motorcycle features a large square TFT display. This is expected to bring a major leap in technology for Hero, potentially offering turn-by-turn navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and detailed ride information.

The switchgear layout also hints at a more premium feature set, including cruise control controls on the right-hand side, ride mode selection on the left, and a dedicated hazard light switch.

The bike will also get electronic aids like ride modes, traction control, and potentially switchable ABS, suggesting a significant leap in technology over the current XPulse lineup.

Underneath the camouflage, the XPulse 421 is expected to be built on an all-new platform, likely using a steel tubular trellis frame. Suspension duties appear to be handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock setup.

The test mule rides on wire-spoke wheels wrapped in dual-purpose tyres, with indications pointing toward a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear combination, a setup commonly seen in serious off-road machines.

Power is expected to come from a newly developed 421 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. While official figures are yet to be confirmed, output is likely to be in the range of 40–45 PS, paired with a six-speed gearbox. The focus appears to be on strong mid-range performance, suitable for both highway touring and challenging terrain.

Spy shots also reveal key adventure-focused hardware such as a large bash plate, handguards, serrated footpegs, petal disc brakes, and an upswept exhaust designed for better ground clearance and water-wading ability.

Given the current pace of testing, the XPulse 421 could make its global debut at EICMA 2026 before heading into international markets as Hero’s new flagship adventure motorcycle.