EICMA 2025: Hero Stuns with the Hunk 440 SX and Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition — The Future of Adventure Motorcycling
Arpita Kushwaha | November 5, 2025 3:27 PM CST
At the global stage of EICMA 2025 in Milan, Italy, Hero MotoCorp made a powerful statement with the reveal of two striking machines—the Hero Hunk 440 SX and the Hero Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition. Both motorcycles highlight Hero’s deepening roots in the adventure and scrambler segment, backed by the engineering expertise of the Hero MotoSports Team Rally, the brand’s dedicated motorsport division.
Hero’s bold showcase at eicma 2025
This year’s showcase marks a strong evolution for Hero, blending its racing DNA with production motorcycles that cater to real-world adventure riders. These models not only enhance Hero’s global appeal but also prove that the brand is stepping up its design and performance game to meet international standards.
Hero Hunk 440 SX: A True Scrambler Spirit
The Hero Hunk 440 SX is not just a new name—it’s a rugged transformation of the already impressive Mavrick 440. Designed with a scrambler attitude, the Hunk 440 SX embodies a mix of retro styling and modern mechanical engineering. While the export-spec Mavrick 440 features a golden inverted front fork and a TFT digital display, the Hunk 440 SX showcased at EICMA takes a more muscular and practical approach.
It comes with a gaitered telescopic front fork, adding durability for off-road use. The steel tube perimeter frame ensures rigidity and balance, especially when tackling rough terrains. With long-travel suspension and an 18-inch front wheel paired with a 17-inch rear wheel, this motorcycle is built for riders who love dirt trails and backcountry rides.
A few visual and functional upgrades make it stand out—a split seat setup for comfort, a flyscreen for wind protection, a redesigned grab rail, a longer rear fender, and a sleek upswept dual-port exhaust that not only looks stylish but also enhances exhaust flow. Hero has also introduced braced handlebars for better control, especially on uneven terrains.
Performance and Features of the Hunk 440 SX
Under the hood, the Hunk 440 SX packs a 440cc air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine. While Hero has not yet disclosed the official power and torque figures, expectations are high that it will deliver performance comparable to its rivals in the mid-weight scrambler category.
Hero has also equipped the Hunk 440 SX with advanced rider aids, including ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, switchable ABS, and multiple ride modes—features that are usually found on premium European adventure bikes.
Although this model might not hit Indian roads soon, the fact that Hero trademarked its design a year ago suggests the brand’s long-term intent to bring more adventure-focused models into its portfolio. If it does make it to production, it could redefine Hero’s image as not just a commuter bike maker but a genuine adventure brand.
Hero Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition: Born from Rally DNA
Hero’s second major unveiling, the Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition, takes direct inspiration from the company’s Dakar Rally experience. The “Dakar” name is not just a marketing term—it’s a legacy that represents grit, endurance, and performance in the harshest conditions on earth.
Built upon the proven Xpulse platform, the Dakar Edition pushes the limits with serious off-road capabilities. The highlight feature is its fully adjustable suspension, boasting 280mm of wheel travel at both ends. This allows the motorcycle to tackle deep ruts, rocky climbs, and sand dunes with confidence. The 270mm ground clearance further ensures that the underbody stays protected, no matter how challenging the terrain.
Design and Mechanical Highlights of the Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition
Visually, the Dakar Edition stands apart with rally-style graphics, an aggressive stance, and functional bodywork optimized for off-road riding. The ergonomics are built for control and comfort—taller handlebars, rally footpegs, and a reshaped seat (likely higher than the standard model) make it ideal for standing rides and long trails.
Powering the bike is a 210cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine, tuned to produce 24 bhp and 20.7 Nm of torque. These figures may not sound extreme on paper, but the real magic lies in how the engine delivers usable torque for climbing and tackling tough off-road sections.
If launched in India, the Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition could be priced around ₹2 lakh, offering adventure enthusiasts a high-value, purpose-built rally machine without the premium tag of imported competitors.
Hero’s Strategic Move Toward Adventure and Global Recognition
Hero MotoCorp’s unveiling at EICMA 2025 isn’t just about showing new models—it’s a statement of intent. The company is clearly shifting gears from its commuter-dominated portfolio toward performance-oriented and globally competitive motorcycles.
By infusing motorsport technology into consumer products, Hero is bridging the gap between racing and real-world riding. The Hunk 440 SX speaks to scrambler lovers who crave style with substance, while the Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition targets hardcore off-roaders who want a slice of rally DNA in an affordable package.
These motorcycles could play a vital role in expanding Hero’s footprint in international markets, especially in Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia—regions where dual-sport and scrambler bikes are gaining popularity.
Final Thoughts: Hero’s New Era of Motorcycling
The Hero Hunk 440 SX and Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition represent the dawn of a new era for Hero MotoCorp—one driven by innovation, performance, and passion for adventure. With their bold design, advanced technology, and motorsport-backed engineering, these bikes are set to elevate Hero’s brand image globally.
While Indian enthusiasts might have to wait to see these models on local roads, their global debut is enough to stir excitement and anticipation. Hero’s strategy seems clear—the brand is not just keeping up with the global motorcycle scene; it’s aiming to lead it.
