Hero MotoCorp just dropped a surprise that’s turning a few heads in the commuter sport segment. The company has launched a new top-end variant of its popular Xtreme 160R 4V, now featuring cruise control yes, on a 160cc bike. Priced at Rs. 1.34 lakh (ex-showroom), this makes the Xtreme 160R 4V one of the most feature-packed motorcycles in its class, easily outpacing rivals in tech and convenience.
Cruise Control Comes to the 160cc Club
Let’s be honest cruise control on a 160cc bike isn’t something anyone saw coming. That’s been the playground of bigger, touring-focused machines. But Hero seems to be rewriting the rulebook here. The new ride-by-wire throttle system, borrowed from the smaller Xtreme 125R, is what enables this feature. The throttle is electronically controlled, which allows the system to hold steady speeds on highways—handy for long rides or those long, monotonous stretches on the NH48.
Three Riding Modes A Segment First
The updated Xtreme 160R 4V also introduces three distinct riding modes: Rain, Road, and Sport. These can be switched on the fly through the new switchgear, making the bike more adaptable to riding conditions. For instance, Rain mode tones down throttle response to enhance grip, while Sport mode unleashes the bike’s full punch for those spirited weekend rides.
Hero deserves credit here—this is the first time a 160cc motorcycle in India gets such tech-loaded rider aids.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Enabled via ride-by-wire system |
| Riding Modes | Rain, Road, Sport |
| Instrument Cluster | New colour LCD from Xtreme 250R |
| Headlamp | Redesigned LED setup |
| Engine | 163.2cc, air/oil-cooled, 16.9bhp, 14.6Nm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed manual |
| Price | Rs. 1.34 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Engine and Performance
Mechanically, Hero hasn’t tinkered with the core package—and that’s not a bad thing. The familiar 163.2cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine continues to deliver 16.9bhp at 8,500rpm and 14.6Nm at 6,500rpm, mated to a five-speed gearbox. The engine is known for its strong mid-range and smooth throttle response, now likely to feel even more refined with the ride-by-wire tech.
The chassis setup remains unchanged, too—featuring the same lightweight frame and suspension tuned for a mix of city agility and weekend ride comfort. The addition of cruise control doesn’t add much weight, which means the Xtreme 160R 4V should retain its peppy character.
Design Refresh from the Xtreme 250R
One of the most noticeable visual updates is the new LED headlamp, which looks sharper and more aggressive—clearly inspired by the upcoming Xtreme 250R. It gives the bike a stronger streetfighter stance, complemented by the minimal bodywork and muscular fuel tank. The overall aesthetic feels more premium, something that was missing in the earlier trims.
The colour LCD display also makes a comeback from Hero’s larger models, offering improved visibility and modern graphics. It displays essential ride data like gear position, fuel economy, and riding mode status.
Market Positioning and Competition
At Rs. 1.34 lakh, Hero’s new variant isn’t cheap—but it’s smartly placed. Competitors like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ-S, and Bajaj Pulsar N160 don’t offer cruise control or riding modes. That gives the Hero a strong edge for buyers looking for a tech-savvy daily commuter with touring capability.
Hero’s move also signals a broader trend—the company seems to be pushing into the premium commuter space with more electronic aids, stepping beyond the traditional “kitna deti hai” mindset. For a brand often seen as conservative, this is a bold, progressive step.
| Rival Model | Price (ex-showroom) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Rs. 1.32 lakh | 4 riding modes, digital console |
| Yamaha FZ-S FI V4 | Rs. 1.30 lakh | Bluetooth connectivity |
| Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Rs. 1.33 lakh | Dual-channel ABS |
| Hero Xtreme 160R 4V CC | Rs. 1.34 lakh | Cruise control, 3 modes, ride-by-wire |
What This Means for Riders
If you’re someone who spends long hours on the highway or just wants a bit of bragging rights at the café stop, this new variant checks the boxes. The cruise control isn’t a gimmick—it’s practical for long commutes. Add to that the new riding modes and updated electronics, and you’ve got a motorcycle that feels like it belongs to a class above.
Hero seems to be building momentum toward its new lineup—first with the 125R, now this. If this is any indication, the upcoming 250R could set a new benchmark for affordable performance bikes in India.
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V with cruise control is more than just a variant—it’s a statement. A sign that the budget segment is catching up with big-bike features. For Rs. 1.34 lakh, it’s not just about getting from Point A to B; it’s about doing it smarter, smoother, and with a touch of tech swagger.
