Introduction: Hero recently launched the Xtreme 200S in the Indian market and we took it out for a spin.
The Xtreme 200S that Hero launched is the fully-faired avatar of the Xtreme 200R. We got a chance to ride the same at the Buddh International Circuit and here is what we think about this new bike in the 200-cc club.
Starting with the design, Hero Xtreme 200S gets a fairing at the front which makes it look more aggressive. It adds to the sporty appeal and the fairing on the bike will also make the bike more aerodynamic and prevent riders from getting wind blasts at higher speeds.
Another feature that one would notice is the bar like headlamp unit. The design of the headlamp is very unique. It is a full LED unit and there are chances that one might consider it as a higher capacity motorcycle by the looks of it. On the side profile, you will notice the big 'X' with Xtreme 200S written on the fairing. The side panels on the Xtreme 200S get a carbon fiber finish with Hero written on it.
One would also notice the presence of a kick start which is normally not present on bikes in this segment. The LED taillights at the rear are the same units which we has already been seen on Xtreme 200R. In all, the bike does look big enough for a 200cc machine and will easily holds its own in front of rivals like the Suzuki Gixxer SF155 and the Yamaha Fazer.
Engine: Coming to the engine specifications, the Hero Xtreme 200S is powered by a 199.6-cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, which produces a maximum power of 18.4 PS @8000 rpm and a peak torque of 17.1 Nm @ 6500 rpm. It doesn't offer fuel injection even as an option. These numbers are identical to what the naked 200R manages.
Let's quickly run through the feature list and safety equipment on offer here. Hero offers a 276mm disc at the front and a 220 mm disc at the rear. It is equipped with a single-channel ABS as it is mandatory for two-wheeler manufacturers to offer ABS as standard on bikes with 125cc and higher capacity engines. The bite from the brakes cannot be called great, but gave enough feedback during our session on the track.
The other new thing on the 200S is the new instrument cluster. It is a fully digital TFT screen that displays all the essential information like speed, trip meter, service reminder, side stand indicator, gear indicator and a segment first Bluetooth connectivity. One can actually pair a smartphone to the motorcycle via Bluetooth and it will show turn-by-turn navigation on the right-side panel of the instrument cluster. Good move, Hero!
And now let's talk about the most important parameter - how does the Xtreme 200S ride? We were given 6 laps around the BIC race track to experience the Xtreme 200S. The first thing that we noticed is the seating position. It is easier to find an ideal seating position and the anti-slip seats offer you enough grip so that you can stick to the seats in corners. This trait is also seen on the naked 200R.
Handling wise the Hero Xtreme 200S felt nimble and you will feel confident throwing it around some corners, given that you adjust the rear monoshock as per your weight and needs. The 7-step adjustable monoshock suspension at the rear is similar to the Xtreme 200R in terms of riding dynamics.
Performance: The 5-speed gear-box and the gear ratios of the Xtreme 200S is more suitable for city usage than on a race track. It gets enough low-end and mid-range punch that one would need during his/her daily commute. At higher speeds or revs, it felt like the engine was working too hard and this also means, the bike will not impress you during extended highway runs. We did see over 115 km/h on the speedometer but the bike takes its own sweet time getting there.
The power figures are quite less when compared to the other 200-cc models in the market. Well, that is because Hero says that the Xtreme 200S is targeted at today's smart generation that is looking for both character and comfort in their daily city ride.
Another advantage for the Hero Xtreme 200S is the price. The new sporty and premium city motorcycle from Hero is priced at Rs 98,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The price is even lower than some of the 150-cc bikes like the Suzuki Gixxer SF. The main competition for the Xtreme 200S in the segment is the Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 which is at least Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 expensive than Xtreme.
Verdict: Hero has told that they will be shipping the Xpulse 200, Xpulse 200T and Xtreme 200S to the showrooms all over the country and they will be ready to go on sale by the end of May. The Xtreme 200S at this price point can actually be considered if you are looking for a looking for good looking, decent performing 200-cc bike that is not heavy on your pocket.
