Hero XPulse 200 4V vs Honda CB200X: Specifications And Features Comparison
Published On Oct 8, 2021 10:15 AM By Manaal Mahatme for Hero XPulse 200 4V
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One is a true-blue off-roader and the other just looks like one. But here’s how they stack up on paper
Hero MotoCorp has played a pivotal role in introducing Indian enthusiasts to the idea of dual-purpose motorcycles, first with the Impulse and later with the XPulse 200. And now, Honda has attempted to cash in on India’s newfound love for do-it-all motorcycles with the CB200X. But can it outdo Hero’s tried-and-tested formula, especially now that the improved Xpulse 200 4V is here?
Engine
The Hero XPulse already had the advantage of a bigger engine, and now with the latest update, it should be more refined while offering the extra performance. Furthermore, Hero has not just altered the 4-Valve overhead configuration, but also made changes to the gear ratios for better tractability and acceleration.
That said, even though the Hero XPulse 200 4V enjoys an advantage of 2PS and 1.2Nm over the Honda CB200X, the latter is a good 11kg lighter. So, picking a clear winner is a tough call.
Underpinnings
The braking and frame setup on the XPulse 200 and CB200X are identical on paper, but that’s where the similarities end. Just like you’d expect from a do-it-all motorcycle, the XPulse 200 4V gets long-travel suspension, offering 190mm travel at the front and 170mm travel at the rear. Meanwhile, Honda simply borrows its suspension components from the Hornet 2.0. Heck, even the 17-inch alloys on the CB200X are from its naked sibling. In contrast, the XPulse gets a 21/18-inch wheel setup with wire spoke wheels and dual-purpose tyres. That said, there’s no denying that fixing a puncture would be a lot easier on the CB200X, thanks to its tubeless tyres.Dimensions
Dimensions
When Honda called the CB200X an ‘Urban Tourer,’ they were being serious. From its accessible 810mm seat height to the taut 1355mm wheelbase, it is a better everyday city motorcycle. Adding to its advantage is the 147kg kerb weight. Meanwhile, the Hero XPulse 200 4V clearly highlights its off-road purpose. The 825mm seat height (2mm more that the previous model) may not be the best suited for riders of all heights, but with its SUV-shaming 220mm ground clearance, you wouldn’t have to worry about scraping the belly over speed bumps of any size.
Features
The Hero XPulse 200 4V packs just about everything you’d expect from a motorcycle of this genre. Even though its instrument console looks minimalistic, it packs a bunch of information, including Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation. Compared to this, the Honda’s console seems a bit archaic: even though it also packs features like gear position indicator and clock, Honda hasn’t equipped it with connectivity features or even a fuel consumption indicator.
Price & Verdict
Hero MotoCorp recently hiked the prices of its products and the XPulse 200 4V demands a premium of Rs 5,000 over the outgoing model. But despite that, it is still Rs 16,350 cheaper than the Honda CB200X, which is nothing more than a good urban commuter. So if you are looking for a do-it-all bike that offers good value for money as well, the XPulse 200, even in its new 4V avatar, would still be our pick.