Hero MotoCorp’s XF3R is a Bajaj Dominar challenger!

Hero MotoCorp is planning to launch a new product in the 200-300 cc segment – the production version of the XF3R concept. The Indian two-wheeler giant is already working on the development and testing of this motorcycle. The XF3R was showcased by the brand back in 2016 Auto Expo as a concept. Web reports are speculating that Hero is close to launching the production version of the 300-cc motorcycle. When launched the bike will rival the Bajaj Dominar 400, KTM Duke 390, Benelli TNT 300 in the naked sportsbike segment.

The news about the bike going into production was confirmed by the people working on this new project. They also added that the Hero XF3R will be launched in India in early 2020. As for mechanicals, the XF3R will be powered by a 300-cc, single-cylinder engine with liquid cooling, four valve head, twin overhead camshafts and fuel injection. Expect about 30 Bhp of peak power and about 30 Nm of peak torque. These outputs are lower than what the Bajaj Dominar offers. A manual gearbox, with 5 or 6 speeds is expected to be on offer.

The XF3R will be Hero’s sharpest styled motorcycle, with an aggressive, street fighter stance. A trellis frame will be the base around which the motorcycle is styled. We expect the production version to carry over many bits from the concept, such as a high-swept exhaust, a flat handlebar design and heavy sculpting on the tank. Alloy wheels and tubeless tyres are also expected to be carried over. Other cycle parts will include upside-down front forks, a monoshock rear shock absorber, disc brakes on both wheels and a standard dual-channel ABS.

Hero XF3R is expected to be a premium product from the brand. Top notch fit and finish is likely on the production model considering the steep competition. Hero MotoCorp could use the XF3R as a base to design and develop new naked bikes in upcoming years. Hero clearly wants a share in the growing premium motorcycle pie in India, which is currently propelled by Royal Enfield with the Classic range, KTM with the Duke range and Bajaj with the Dominar range. The motorcycle is expected to be priced between Rs. 1.5-2 lakhs when launched.

Via MoneyControl