Hero MotoCorp has patented the design of a new dual-sport adventure motorcycle in India. While the motorcycle could initially be mistaken for a possible revival of the Impulse name, the design and mechanical details suggest that it is a different model altogether.
The patent images indicate that the motorcycle could be based on the Hero Hunk 150R, which is currently sold in markets such as Bangladesh and Nepal. The engine casing design and the apparent cylinder dimensions bear similarities to the Hunk 150R’s powertrain. This suggests that the new motorcycle could be intended for emerging markets where smaller-capacity dual-sport motorcycles have greater demand, including parts of South America and Africa.
Interestingly, the motorcycle appears to use a carburetted engine. The patent images show a kickstarter, a fuel tap positioned on the left side of the engine and a choke knob on the left handlebar. These are features typically associated with a carburettor-equipped setup. This kind of setup is usually seen on motorcycles developed for emerging markets where emission norms aren’t as stringent as in some other countries.
The overall silhouette of the motorcycle resembles the now-discontinued Hero Impulse 150. The fuel tank and tank shrouds particularly resemble the Impulse 150, but several other components appear to be borrowed from Hero’s existing range.
The tail lamp resembles the unit used on the Xtreme 125R and XPulse 210, while the headlight appears similar to the unit on the Xtreme 160R and the discontinued Passion Pro 110 XTEC.
The motorcycle gets a raised front mudguard, typical of a dual-sport design, along with a high-mounted exhaust. Suspension duties are handled by a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Disc brakes are fitted at both ends.
Hero MotoCorp already sells the Xpulse 200 in India as its entry-level adventure motorcycle. However, the Hunk 150R has been discontinued in the Indian market, making an India launch of this new motorcycle unlikely. Instead, its combination of a relatively simple engine, conventional hardware and dual-sport design suggests that it could be developed primarily for export markets.
