Hero Patents New Affordable ADV Scooter In India, Inspired By Dakar Rally Machines

Hero MotoCorp has patented a new adventure-style scooter in India, likely based on the Xoom 125 platform. The concept was first showcased at the 2024 EICMA in Milan, and the production-ready version is expected to make its global debut later this year.

ADV-style scooters have built a strong fanbase in India, especially among young riders looking for something unique and rugged. Hero already offers the Xoom 160 in this segment, but there has been room for a more affordable alternative.

Hero's New Budget ADV Scooter Takes Shape

Hero now appears ready to fill that gap with a new 125cc adventure scooter, which could be a more affordable and toned-down version of the Xoom 160. The upcoming model is expected to be sold through Hero's premium Premia dealerships instead of regular showrooms.

The design appears heavily inspired by Dakar Rally machines, which makes sense as Hero has been actively competing in the Dakar Rally. The scooter gets several ADV-focused elements, including a crash guard, hand guards, a beak-style front fender, and a tall rear section.

Its sharp and sporty styling could appeal strongly to younger buyers, and Hero may also offer dual-tone colour options. In terms of features, it could borrow LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, smartphone connectivity, and navigation from the Xoom 160 and Xoom 125.

Powering the scooter could be the same 124cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, producing 9.8 bhp and 10.4 Nm of torque, making it a practical option for urban commutes with an adventure-inspired appeal.

Expected Launch

We expect the production-ready version of this new scooter to debut at EICMA later this year, with a launch likely by late 2026 or early 2027. Once launched, it will rival popular 125cc scooters like the TVS NTorq 125, Suzuki Burgman Street 125, and Honda Dio 125. With Hero's growing Dakar Rally presence and rising demand for lifestyle-oriented scooters, this new model could become the most affordable ADV-style scooter in the Indian market.