Hero MotoCorp introduces Hero Xpulse 450, a powerful enduro bike for challenging roads

Competition for dominance by Royal Enfield, especially in the segment of its popular Classic 350 model, is becoming more intense with the emergence of a new player—Hero MotoCorp. The company has presented a classic motorcycle whose design promises to create equal competition.

This new classic concept from Hero could pose serious challenges to Royal Enfield, as for the first time, the company is preparing to challenge the Classic 350 in its own style. Hero MotoCorp officially unveiled its new Hero Classic Concept at the EICMA 2026 exhibition in Milan, Italy.

The motorcycle represents an impressive combination of retro design and modern technology. Its appearance differs from typical concepts, resembling a premium, handcrafted classic motorcycle. It features a round fuel tank, a round headlight, spoked wheels, and a curved fender.

Additional design elements include a wide handlebar that ensures a comfortable riding position. The seat is positioned low, emphasizing the bike's classic look. Special attention has been paid to the finish: metallic blue is used in combination with chrome, copper, and gold. There is fine engraving on the fuel tank, and the Hero branding is complemented by special gold detailing, while a brown stripe running across the middle of the tank gives it uniqueness.

The seat is decorated with diamond-pattern stitching, and this theme continues with the brown grips on the handlebars. The detailing shows that the company has paid great attention to the small things, giving the motorcycle a premium and handmade appearance. However, if a production model emerges, materials and finishes may change.

The round headlight of the Hero Classic Concept features a characteristic H-shaped LED signature, which was also seen in the company's Scrambler Concept. A golden housing surrounds the headlight, secured by special metal brackets. The rear of the motorcycle is equipped with a round taillight integrated into the blue fender. A small circular display is located in front of the handlebars, the functionality of which has not yet been revealed.

The area around the engine also looks attractive, including polished metal casings and golden engine cooling fins. A long, low exhaust pipe coming from the right side of the motorcycle completes the classic look. The concept provides for disc brakes front and rear, as well as a chain drive system, although full information on the chassis, suspension, and braking system has not yet been provided.

The main question regarding this concept relates to the engine. Hero has not yet disclosed information about the power, torque, or engine displacement. However, the recently introduced Hero Harley-Davidson X350T model may indicate the possible use of a scaled-down version of the 440cc engine developed in partnership between Hero and Harley-Davidson.

If Hero turns this concept into a series model, it will directly compete with the Royal Enfield Classic 350. There is high demand for classic-designed motorcycles in the Indian market, and the Classic 350 is a bestseller for Royal Enfield. There is speculation that Hero may develop a common engine unit for its various premium models in the future, which would help reduce development and production costs. However, Hero has not confirmed that the Classic Concept will use the engine from the X350T.

At present, Hero has not provided official data on the production, name, technical specifications of the engine, or release dates for this motorcycle. However, its design clearly demonstrates the company's ambition to move beyond budget and low-powered models, preparing to cause a stir in the premium and classic bike segment.

Royal Enfield, a brand known for its unique style and passion in the motorcycle world, presented a wide range of new models at the EICMA 2026 exhibition, which began in Milan, Italy. The company commemorates its 125-year journey, preserving its heritage while expanding its ambitions.

At the EICMA show, the company demonstrated various new motorcycles, including the powerful Himalayan 750, Continental GT 750, and the Flying Flea S6 Scrambler model, which is a gift for both custom bike enthusiasts and the general public. Royal Enfield used its 125th anniversary to present a new strategy and an updated product lineup to the world.

Now, in addition to traditional motorcycles, the company is focusing on models with larger engines, electric mobility, and the culture of custom motorcycles.

The centerpiece of the exhibition was the Royal Enfield Himalayan 750. This is the company's first model with a 750cc engine, specifically designed for long-distance travel and tackling challenging routes. Previously, the company popularized motorcycling for enthusiasts with the Himalayan 411 about ten years ago, and now the Himalayan 750 elevates this segment to a new level.

This model is equipped with a new 743cc parallel-twin air and oil-cooled engine. It is capable of generating 63 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. Notably, 90 percent of this torque, or about 56.7 Nm, is achieved at only 3500 rpm, promising better power in difficult conditions and various riding modes.

The Himalayan 750 features five riding modes, a 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and cruise control. It has a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, both tubeless. The company will offer it with both cast and spoked wheel options. To ensure comfortable long journeys, it includes an adjustable windscreen, separate seats for the rider and passenger, and a load capacity of 195 kg. The motorcycle is designed for those who love traveling on all types of roads, from mountains to long highways.

The next presentation was the Continental GT 750, which is currently the most powerful production motorcycle model in the brand's lineup. It is a sportier version of the company's famous cafe racer series. It retains the signature style of older GT models but emphasizes a more modern design and increased performance.

The Continental GT 750 uses an advanced version of the new 743cc twin-cylinder engine found in the Himalayan 750. The company claims that the Continental GT 750 will be the most high-performance production motorcycle model, offering improved components, premium materials, and numerous modifications to enhance efficiency.

The model is equipped with a special hybrid dual-panel TFT display, which combines retro design with modern technology. It will be presented in two configurations: a standard model with an open fairing and a faired version. In the faired model, the handlebars are positioned lower, providing the rider with a sportier posture. Royal Enfield offers it in three color schemes: Red Line, TT Blue, and Master Clean.

Royal Enfield also introduced the new S6 Scrambler under its electric mobility brand, Flying Flea. This model promotes the concept of the company's City+ electric mobility, showing that electric motorcycles can be used not only for city rides but also for adventures.

The Flying Flea S6 is developed on the basis of the company's light and flexible C6 platform. It is equipped with a high-power electric motor and features an enduro-style seat, giving it a scrambler look. According to the company, it can be easily used in city traffic as well as on rough roads.

The electric motorcycle is equipped with a round touch display running Fleaware.OS, as well as multiple riding modes and driver assistance functions. A special feature is the new off-road mode, presented for the first time. The Flying Flea S6 will be available in two colors—Dart Yellow and Lightning Grey, with a launch planned for Summer 2027.

In addition to new production models, Royal Enfield paid special attention to the custom motorcycle culture. The company, in collaboration with the renowned custom motorcycle brand Deus Ex Machina, presented a special custom edition of the Shotgun 650, named 'Son of Gun'. This motorcycle was crafted with particular care: it combines dark red, cream, and gold colors, features special graphics on the fuel tank, a piano black finish on the 650 Twin engine casing, contrasting aluminum wheels, and a brown leather seat with the signature Deus branding.

Royal Enfield is preparing to introduce a new motorcycle that will become part of the brand's off-road portfolio. Teaser information has been released about this upcoming model, whose design resembles the recently spotted Royal Enfield Himalayan 750.

The teaser showed an off-road motorcycle with features such as a long windscreen, raised rear bodywork, and a general off-road motorcycle style. The production version of the Himalayan 750 has previously undergone testing. Although the company has not yet named the new model officially, the post used the hashtag Himalayan, indicating its belonging to the off-road series.

This model will be the most powerful and flagship off-road machine in the company's lineup. It is expected to be equipped with a parallel twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 750 cc, capable of developing 55 hp and 65 Nm of torque. The chassis will also be new, and the test motorcycle was seen with USD front forks. Additionally, it may feature a monoshock at the rear.

The motorcycle will have dual front disc brakes and a single rear rotor. A wheelset with a 19-inch front diameter and a 17-inch rear diameter is planned. During testing, the bike was seen with both disc and spoked wheels. It will include features such as traction control, riding modes, TPMS, and a TFT display with a color screen. These features may be common with the company's 450 and 650 cc models. There is also provision for smartphone connectivity and Google navigation with turn-by-turn directions.

In addition, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 750 will have a large fuel tank, a half fairing, a large windscreen, round LED headlights, a high-mounted exhaust system, and a raised rear section. This model was recently spotted in red, white, gray, and olive green color schemes. The estimated starting price for this model may begin from 4 lakh rupees, including all charges.