Hero Bets Big On The 150-350cc Segment; More Premium Bikes Incoming

Hero MotoCorp is preparing to strengthen its presence in India's fast-growing premium motorcycle space. In its FY26 annual report, the company has revealed plans to launch new motorcycles under both the Hero and Harley-Davidson brands in the coming year, with a clear focus on the 150-350cc segment.

The Premium Sweet Spot

Hero believes the 150-350cc segment has become the industry's biggest growth opportunity. According to the company, buyers are increasingly moving from commuters towards larger, more feature-rich motorcycles.

The company also credits the reduction in GST on sub-350cc motorcycles for making premium motorcycles more accessible. Lower taxes mean lower prices, bringing more first-time buyers into the premium market while also encouraging existing riders to upgrade from smaller motorcycles.

On the other hand, Hero notes that bikes above 350cc have faced slower growth after attracting higher taxes. While a few manufacturers largely absorbed the additional costs to avoid steep price hikes, the company believes the 150-350cc segment currently offers the best balance of affordability and appeal.

More Premium Motorcycles On The Way

Hero's premium portfolio has expanded steadily with models like the Xpulse 210, Xtreme 250R, Karizma XMR and the Harley-Davidson X440 T. The company has now confirmed that more motorcycles under both Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson will arrive during FY27.

ZigSays

Hero MotoCorp's strategy makes sense. While the 350cc-plus segment has become more expensive, the 150-350cc category is attracting riders looking for performance without stretching their budgets too far. With fresh Hero and Harley-Davidson bikes on the horizon, expect the brand to become an even stronger player in this increasingly competitive segment.