Hero MotoCorp has laid out ambitious plans to compete in the fiercely competitive 350cc-500cc motorcycle segment, setting its sights on challenging the dominant position of Royal Enfield in the Indian market. One of the key motorcycles in its arsenal aimed squarely at Royal Enfield’s stronghold will be a 400cc model, closely tied to the recently unveiled Harley-Davidson X440. In a move that further underscores its intentions, the indigenous two-wheeler manufacturer has secured trademark rights for the names ‘Hurikan’ and ‘Hurikan 440,’ likely designating them for the forthcoming 400cc offering. Interestingly, Hero MotoCorp had also trademarked the ‘Hero Nightster 440’ name a few months earlier.
When it arrives in the market, the Hero Hurikan 440 will face direct competition from Royal Enfield’s 350cc lineup, along with recently introduced rivals like the Triumph Speed 400 and the upcoming Triumph Scrambler 400X. Drawing its lineage from the Harley-Davidson X440, the upcoming Hero motorcycle will share the same platform, components, and engine with its donor sibling. Nevertheless, both models will exhibit distinctive designs and a forward-leaning riding posture.
While precise details about the Hero Hurikan 440 are still emerging, enthusiasts can anticipate a motorcycle adorned with retro-themed round headlamps, a muscular fuel tank, bar-end mirrors, wide handlebars, sporty exhaust pipes, and a circular instrument cluster.
At the heart of the Hero Hurikan 440 will be the same 440cc single-cylinder, oil/air-cooled engine that propels the Harley-Davidson X440. This powerplant is expected to produce 27bhp at 6,000rpm and 38Nm of torque at 4,000rpm, delivering a spirited riding experience. The transmission is likely to be carried over from the Harley X440, although Hero may fine-tune the gear ratios to align with its specific design and performance objectives.
Hero MotoCorp is strategically categorizing its upcoming premium motorcycles into two distinct segments: Core Premium and Upper Premium. Positioned within the Upper Premium category, the Hero Hurikan 440 aligns with the company’s overarching strategy to cater to a wide spectrum of consumer preferences and market segments. With the introduction of the Hurikan 440, Hero MotoCorp aims to make a significant mark in the competitive Indian motorcycle market, where enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this exciting addition to their lineup.
