4 new Hero bikes in the 200-300cc segment are launching in India over the next 18 months. These new bikes will be sold only from premium dealerships. The first one would include the Hero Xpulse 200 followed by 250cc and 300cc bikes.
Hero recently launched the Xtreme 200R in India. After a long time, it came to entry-level premium bikes category. Hero Motocorp already had the Karizma as its premium product, but it hardly made any significant sale. The Xtreme 200R was launched to regain its sluggish performance in this segment. Now, the latest scoop from Mint says that 4 new Hero bikes are launching in India over the next 18 months. Also, these new bikes including the Xtreme 200R will be launched from new premium dealerships. The first one launching will be the dual-purpose Xpulse 200.
Also Read: Hero Xpulse 200 Launch Details, Expected Price and Features- All You Need To Know
Why is Hero Motocorp doing this?
As we all know, Hero Motocorp is one of the largest brands in the 100-125cc segment. With its Splendor and Passion series, it is truly popular in commuter bike department. It tried its hand in the premium category with the Karizma but miserably failed. Earlier Karizma was a popular bike, but with time it faded.
As of now, the disposable income in the hands of people is increasing, which is increasing their purchasing power. So now, the average budget of an Indian bike buyer has increased. Also, the sales figures for bikes priced above Rs 1 Lakh has increased tremendously. So, to seize the opportunity, the new Hero bikes are coming up.
Which bikes would launch under this plan?
As of now, we know about 2 bikes only. The first one is the Hero Xpulse 200. The ADV bike was showcased at the Auto Expo 2018 and once launched, will be the cheapest ADV bike in India. It is expected to launch in India by end of 2018. Recently, we reported a story that said Hero and Ducati may tie up to launch a 300cc bike in India. This move was rumoured after the success of BMW G 310 series. BMW tied up with TVS for this bike. So, this bike could be one of the bikes in the plan.
Also Read: Ducati Could Partner With Hero Motocorp For A New 300cc Bike In India
What could the prices of the new Hero bikes possibly be?
Hero Motocorp is known for pricing its bike very aggressively against its rival. We saw the perfect example in Xtreme 200R, which is priced around 10-15,000 lower than its rivals. So these bikes would definitely be around Rs 2 lakhs or below.
What about the premium dealership scene?
Another news says that Hero will launch these new bikes and the Hero Xtreme 200R from new premium dealerships. Reportedly, it has also roped in Virat Kohli for the brand ambassador of Hero. Looks like Hero wants to increase its brand name desperately.
Also Read: Hero Xtreme 200R Price, Top Speed, Mileage And Colours
The showrooms will sell jackets, helmets, leather bags, shoes, denim, wallets, chinos, T-shirts, sunglasses and riding gear. It will be basically a mix of a dealer and the company-owned showrooms.
