The Hero Xpulse 421 positioned to sit above the Xpulse 210, is slated to use a brand-new, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine displacing just over 400cc, paired with an all-new steel trellis chassis.

The design appears to take clear inspiration from rally motorcycles, with a high-mounted LED headlight set into a sharp fairing, a large fuel tank, and a slim rear end seemingly aimed at keeping the weight tucked in.

Based on test mules, the front end stands purposefully tall, while the seat and tank shape look designed to give riders a good grip with their knees and ankles when standing on the pegs off-road.

Standard equipment is anticipated to include a rear parcel rack, an underbelly guard, and hand guards, all items that typically come as paid accessories on rivals.

Spy shots of the test mule also point toward a large TFT display, riding modes, and cruise control.

The motorcycle is expected to make its global debut at EICMA 2026 in November, which would put it in line for an Indian launch sometime in 2027.