The Hero HX250R has begun its next round of testing post the EBR bankruptcy and will hit the production line soon.
Hero’s extremely ambitious project seems to have finally come back on the right course with no stopping it this time. The highly awaited HX250R that was showcased prior to the 2014 Auto Expo with much fanfare had its future in the doldrums post the EBR bankruptcy. Thankfully though, the model has now been spotted testing for the first time giving a closer look at the bike and is likely to go on sale within this financial year. There seems to be ABS on this test mule and the same will be offered as an option on this quarter-litre machine.
The Hero HX250R comes with the same design language as seen on the concept model and has been caught testing in a shade of grey with body coloured telescopic front suspension and a contrasting red monoshock setup. Standard in the segment, the bike gets clip-on handlebars and an analog-digital instrument console. It is based on a tubular geodesic frame and gets a tubular swingarm, aluminium footpegs that will cumulatively help achieve a low kerb weight of 136 kgs.
EBR has been extremely influential in the development of the Hero HX250R and that influence is clearly evident in the design. The bike gets twin headlamps with LED DRLs, wide split seats that look well cushioned and a sporty riding position but not too aggressive. Handling is expected to be a strong point on the HX250R, given EBR’s track record. The flagship Hero rides on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli tyres and gets petal disc brakes at the front and rear with steel braided lines available as standard. The bike will also get dual channel ABS with combined braking system for effective stopping power.
In terms of powertrain, the Hero HX250R uses a 249cc single-cyinder engine that will produce around 31 BHP of power, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. Reports have also suggested that of the bike getting multiple riding modes, a first in the segment. However, things won’t be easy for the HX250R once it hits the showrooms. The bike will be fending off competition from the Honda CBR250R, KTM RC 200, Bajaj Pulsar RS 200, Mahindra Mojo 300 among a host of other offerings in the segment. Prices though will be extremely competitive and are expected to start a little over Rs. 1.5 lakhs (ex-showroom).
Spy Pictures Source – Gaadiwaadi.com
