Hero MotoCorp Launches Super Splendor XTEC 2.0 At INR 86,500

Hero MotoCorp - Super Splendor XTEC 2.0

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of two-wheelers, has officially launched the Super Splendor XTEC 2.0 at INR 86,500 (ex-showroom Delhi), updating its flagship 125cc commuter motorcycle portfolio.

The new model builds on the classic silhouette with advanced tech integrations, a refreshed cosmetic identity and enhanced powertrain efficiency.

The launch underpins the brand's premiumisation strategy within the 125cc commuter sub-segment. The Super Splendor XTEC 2.0 is powered by a refined 124.7cc single-cylinder engine, which churns out 10.7 bhp @ 7,500 rpm, peak torque of 10.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm and a claimed fuel efficiency of 72 km per litre.

The engine pairs an Advanced Programmed Fuel Injection (APFI) system with Hero’s proprietary i3S (Idle Stop-Start System), which cuts fuel flow during prolonged idling at traffic stops. The powertrain also integrates an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) to enable a near-silent engine ignition sequence and seamless automated restarts when crawling through dense gridlock.

Furthermore, the motorcycle now comes with segment-first hazard lights, a front disc brake, handlebar-mounted engine kill switch for swift ignition control, along with a high-output (2 Amp) USB Type-C charging port mounted near the console for mobile devices and navigation hardware.

The rider interface features a Fully Digital Instrument Cluster packed with integrated Bluetooth connectivity. Once paired with a smartphone, the digital display feeds critical real-time information directly to the console, including incoming call alerts, SMS notifications, caller ID tracking and phone battery status levels. The console also retains practical baseline tools like a Low Fuel Indicator and Hero’s Real Time Mileage Indicator (RTMi) to monitor combustion efficiency on the fly.

In terms of design, Hero MotoCorp said it has updated the chassis for comfort including an upright, relaxed seating posture facilitated by wide handlebars to reduce rider fatigue across extended journeys. The platform uses a supportive telescopic front suspension layout, an extended dual-textured seat and a thick rear grab rail to maximise pillion stability over uneven surfaces.

The Super Splendor XTEC 2.0 updates its styling with aggressive, dual-tone premium body graphics, distinctive 3D branding emblems, signature XTEC 2.0 styling badging and contrasting rim tapes on the alloy wheels. The model debuts across five distinct colour schemes – Glossy Black, Candy Blazing Red, Matt Axis Grey, Matt Nexus Blue and Matt Chestnut Brown.

Ashutosh Varma, Chief Business Officer of the India Business Unit at Hero MotoCorp, said, “Hero MotoCorp’s Splendor has built a strong legacy of delivering trust, performance and everyday reliability to millions of customers for over three decades. The new Super Splendor XTEC 2.0 carries this promise forward with a bold and contemporary design, advanced technology and enhanced convenience features. With its trusted performance and reliability, everyday practicality and an elevated riding experience, the Super Splendor XTEC 2.0 further strengthens Hero MotoCorp’s leadership in the segment while reaffirming its commitment to delivering superior value to its customers.”

Hero MotoCorp Appoints Srihari Mulgund As Chief Strategy Officer

Srihari Mulgund

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of scooters and motorcycles, has appointed Srihari Mulgund as its new Chief Strategy Officer, effective 17 August 2026. Following the appointment, Mulgund joins the company's executive leadership team and assumes a senior management role under regulatory listing rules.

He comes with over 24 years of experience across engineering, product development, and strategic planning within the automotive industry, having worked in the United States, Japan, China and India.

Prior to joining Hero MotoCorp, he served as a Partner at EY-Parthenon, where he managed advisory engagements covering electric vehicles, battery technology, internal combustion engines, supply chains and mobility systems.

His career history also includes executive roles at Aisin AW, FEV Inc and Ricardo Strategic Consulting India, where he served as President.

Mulgund holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the National Institute of Engineering in Mysore, a master's degree from the University of Toledo, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

In his new position, Mulgund will oversee the formulation and execution of corporate growth plans, technological development initiatives and market strategy frameworks across the company's business divisions.

Ducati Launches 5th Gen Monster Motorcycle At INR 1.39 Million In India

Ducati Monster

Ducati has launched the fifth-generation Monster motorcycle in India, with prices starting from INR 1.39 million ex-showroom. The model arrives following recognition at the Red Dot Design Award 2026, where it won in the Product Design category.

The Monster introduces an 890 cc V2 engine featuring Intake Variable Timing (IVT), it produces 111 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 91.1 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm, with valve clearance maintenance intervals set at 45,000 km.

The motorcycle uses a monocoque frame, a technopolymer subframe and a double-sided swingarm, bringing the overall weight without fuel to 175 kg. The suspension is handled by a 43 mm Showa upside-down front forks and a rear Showa monoshock. Braking is handled by dual 320 mm front discs with Brembo M4.32 radial calipers, while the vehicle rides on Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres. Ergonomic changes include a seat height of 815 mm and repositioned handlebars.

Electronic systems are managed via a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU), which includes cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control and four riding modes. System settings are displayed on a five-inch TFT screen operated via a handlebar-mounted joystick.

The model is available in Monster and Monster+ variants across three colour schemes, with the Monster+ including a headlight cowl and passenger seat cover. Ducati offers two maintenance coverage packages, Ducati Protect (+) and Ducati Protect (Pro), which cover servicing parts and labour for up to four years.

Bipul Chandra, Managing Director, Ducati India, said, “The Ducati Monster has always been the bike that introduced people to what a Ducati really feels like, and this new generation makes that experience more accessible than ever. With the new V2 engine, class-leading maintenance intervals and a completely reimagined design, it's a bike built for riders who want the full Ducati experience in a form that's easy to live with every day.”

Royal Enfield Hosts HunterHood Street Culture In Kochi

Royal Enfield - HunterHood

Chennai-headquartered mid-sized motorcycle manufacturer Royal Enfield brought its street culture platform, HunterHood, to Kochi on 8 August 2026, combining music, art, skateboarding, urban sports and creative expression. The sixth edition of the event followed previous iterations in Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Shillong and Lucknow.

Inspired by the Hunter 350 motorcycle, HunterHood serves as a platform for street-inspired cultures, gathering communities of artists, musicians, dancers, painters, urban sports enthusiasts and designers. Prior to the main event, Royal Enfield hosted a Community Pre-Jam on 7 August in collaboration with Loop Skatepark to engage local skaters and street communities.

The main stage featured performances from Kerala's independent and hip-hop music scene, including Tribe Mama MaryKali, Ranj x Clifr, GABRI, MC Couper, Baby Jean and Dabzee. The Community Stage presented rapper Ameekha Liyana Ansar, DJ Dsco Patrol (Nihell), street culture collective We Are The Boom and Chenda Melam percussion performances.

Skateboarding demonstrations were conducted by the Fly Squad Skateboarding Community and Kovalam Skate Club. Live graffiti, visual art and interactive installations were created on site by HH Art Spaces, Alan Pappy, Trespassers, SquidWorks, Karthik Venugopal, Samriddhi Arora and Om Chopra. Additionally, Kerala-based artist collective Trespassers completed a ten-day mural project focused on local youth culture and riding.

The event incorporated interactive workshops covering skimboarding, football, cricket, basketball and graffiti. Custom motorcycle builds were displayed by XLNC Customs, JD Customs, Garuda Machina, Kunwar Customs and Eimor Customs. The venue also featured an illuminated tunnel installation incorporating lights, Malayalam conversations and cinema dialogues to replicate the experience of riding through the city.

India Yamaha Motor Reintroduces MotoGP Editions, Updates FZ Colour Options

Yamaha India - MotoGP

India Yamaha Motor has announced the return of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition for the R15 V4 and MT-15 Version 2.0 motorcycle models. The release, the company says, responds to customer demand for the company's racing-livery options.

The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition models display liveries inspired by Yamaha's racing division across the fuel tank, side panels, and tank shrouds. The R15 V4 MotoGP Edition is priced starting at INR 176,050 ex-showroom Delhi, while the MT-15 MotoGP Edition begins at INR 177,230.

Alongside the special editions, Yamaha updated colour variants across its FZ product range. The FZ-S Fi Hybrid receives an Ice Storm colour scheme, while the existing Matte Black version gets updated graphics. The FZ-S Fi line gains a Metallic Black finish.

Pricing for the updated FZ range starts at INR 129,880 ex-showroom Delhi for the standard FZ-S Fi, with the FZ-S Fi Hybrid variant priced at INR 139,200.