New Bajaj ADV spotted testing! Upcoming Hero Xpulse rival?

Bajaj Auto appears to be preparing its entry into the adventure motorcycle segment in India. A new dual-sport motorcycle from the company has been spotted testing, hinting that Bajaj could soon challenge rivals like the Hero Xpulse in the affordable ADV category.

Spy shots and videos reveal a tall stance, long-travel suspension and rugged bodywork. The bike features a raised front fender, wide handlebars and a flat single-piece seat. There’s also a top box mounted at the rear.

The motorcycle rides on wire-spoke wheels and is expected to get a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear setup. The suspension hardware includes telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock, while the production model could also offer USD forks and switchable dual-channel ABS. Other expected features include a digital instrument cluster, traction control and full-LED lighting.


One of the biggest talking points surrounding the motorcycle is its engine. There are speculations that Bajaj could use KTM’s new 350cc liquid-cooled engine for the ADV. However, there is also speculation that the motorcycle may instead borrow the 249cc single-cylinder oil-cooled engine from the Pulsar N250.

The final positioning of the motorcycle will depend largely on the powertrain Bajaj chooses. If it arrives with a smaller displacement engine, it could directly rival the Hero Xpulse 210 in the affordable adventure segment. On the other hand, a KTM-derived 350cc motor could place it closer to motorcycles like the TVS Apache RTX 300. The test motorcycle already appears close to production-ready, and Bajaj is expected to launch it either by the end of 2026 or in early 2027.