Amid growing demand for off-road and adventure motorcycles in the Indian market, Hero MotoCorp has attracted public attention with a new design for a two-sport motorcycle that recently received a patent. Images of this design have sparked speculation about a possible revival of the old Impulse model.
The design presented in the patent notably differs from the current Xpulse model. Notably, it features a small air-cooled engine and a pedal-type starter, raising suspicions about the development of a light and affordable off-road motorcycle in the price range of 150 to 200 cubic centimeters.
According to the information in the patent, the new model is equipped with an air-cooled engine and lacks an oil cooler. This suggests that the engine capacity may be within the 150–200 cc range. In this case, technically, this motorcycle would occupy a position below the existing Xpulse 200 4V and Xpulse 210, offering buyers a budget option for travel.
The presence of a pedal starter lever in the photos indicates the possibility of using a low-power engine, although the company might also provide an electric starter in the production version. If Hero develops an off-road motorcycle around 150 cc, it may consider reusing the Impulse name, though there is no official information on this yet.
The images also show a fuel tap to the left of the engine, hinting at the possible use of a carburetor system. However, if this is the case, the motorcycle might not comply with current Indian emission norms, which could indicate that this patent is intended for export markets where carbureted engines are still permitted. Nevertheless, the presence of elements such as a front number plate and protective casing suggests that the company is also working on a model for the domestic market.
Hero MotoCorp first launched the Impulse in the Indian market in October 2011, and it became the first motorcycle model released under the Hero MotoCorp brand after separating from Honda. The initial price of this model was 66,800 rupees (excluding taxes). The motorcycle was positioned as versatile, suitable for both roads and off-road terrain.
It was equipped with a 149.2 cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that generated 13.2 hp and 13.4 Nm of torque, and was connected to a five-speed gearbox. The main features of the Impulse included a high ground clearance of 245 mm, long telescopic front suspension, a rear monoshock with Nitrox gas filling, a 19-inch front wheel, a front disc brake, a high muffler, a raised front fender, and a motocross-style seat, making it suitable for riding on poor roads and light off-roading.
However, the motorcycle did not receive the expected market response. Due to continuously declining sales, the company officially discontinued its sale in 2017. One of the significant factors was non-compliance with BS-IV emission standards, as Hero did not update the Impulse according to the new regulations. Nevertheless, interest in this model has risen again following the patenting of the new design.