Hero MotoCorp is the largest selling two-wheeler brand in India, largely due to its entry-level commuter offerings. However, they now have plans to grab a large piece of the premium commuter motorcycle cake.
In India, we generally associate brands with the category of motorcycles in which they own a major market share. For instance, Bajaj is well known for its Pulsar range of small displacement performance bikes and Hero is known to rule the commuter motorcycle segment, where it holds a massive 64 percent share. This perception is what Hero MotoCorp is out to change as they target the performance end of small displacement motorcycles in India.
In view of this goal, Hero has chalked out a well prepared strategy in order to be a recognised name in the 150-250cc category as well as further strengthen its hold in the commuter motorcycle space. This was evident at the 2016 Auto Expo as well, where we saw a slew of motorcycles being showcased by Hero in the premium commuter category. More importantly, these motorcycles are slated for launch in the coming year or so.
Up until recently, the Hero Karizma would sell in decent numbers and was one of the best offerings in its category. However, when the ‘new’ and facelifted Karizma was launched, it wasn’t well received by critics and consumers alike, which reflected in its steadily declining monthly sales. This could be the primary reason why Hero MotoCorp have decided to take notice and focus more on the premium commuter segment.
Hero unveiled the Xtreme 200S recently which will directly go up against the TVS Apache 200 and Bajaj Pulsar AS 200. Another empty slot in the Hero lineup was a performance oriented 200cc or so sports motorcycle, much like the Pulsar RS 200 and KTM RC 200. And that void will be filled as Hero showcased the HX250 as well as a naked 300cc bike called the XF3R concept. Another very interesting detail coming out of the company is the development of higher displacement motorcycles mainly for global markets and eventually for the local market as well.
Hero MotoCorp 150-250cc Bikes
– Hero owns 64 percent market share in the commuter motorcycle segment
– The top of the line facelifted Karizma was not well received by reviewers and consumers
– The company plans to launch several premium commuter motorcycles in the coming year
– Hero is also working on higher displacement motorcycles for global markets
