Almost here! Hero MotoCorp’s XF3R 300cc sportsbike to rival Bajaj Dominar

Hero MotoCorp is all set to showcase the production version of the XF3R naked sportsbike concept at the 2018 Indian Auto Expo. The production version of this bike will take on the likes of the Bajaj Dominar and the soon-to-be-launched BMW G310 R. It will be Hero MotoCorp’s most expensive motorcycle, sitting well above the XPulse on-off road bike, which will also be launched in months from now. The larger engined bike is likely to be launched only by the end of 2018.

Unlike the XPulse’s 200cc engine, the XF3R will feature a larger, 300cc single cylinder engine. Apart from the increase in displacement, the engine is also expected to get liquid cooling, fuel injection DOHC and a four valve head. It will be significantly more powerful as well. Exact power and torque figures remain under wraps for now. A 5 or 6 speed manual gearbox will be offered on the new bike.

The XF3R will feature sharp, street fighter styling, with a trellis frame being at the center of the muscular design. The bike may carry over many interesting styling bits seen on the concept – a high swept exhaust, a flat handlebar design and heavy sculpting on the tank. The bike will ride on alloy wheels shod with tubeless tyres. Disc brakes on both wheels with ABS as standard is also likely to be offered.

Upside down front forks and a monoshock rear shock absorber will make for suspension bits. The motorcycle will seat two, and have an aggressive yet street-friendly riding position. In terms of pricing, about Rs. 1.5 lakhs is what Hero could peg it at. A source said to be in the know about the latest 300cc bike from Hero has had this to say to AutocarProfessional,

Hero MotoCorp has been working on its 300cc motorcycle project that spawns out from the XF3R concept. While a lot of changes are made to the original concept based on the feedback its engineering team had gathered, it looks refreshingly good in its pre-production state. Expect an attractive package by the company as it prepares to shake up the growing premium motorcycle segment later this year. Hero MotoCorp aims to roll it out in the domestic market not before Q1-Q2 FY2018-19.