Hero MotoCorp seems to be gearing up for a major comeback in the premium motorcycle space. The company’s flagship roadster, the Hero Mavrick 440, has been spotted once again — this time during what appears to be a television commercial (TVC) shoot, hinting strongly at its impending re-entry into showrooms.
Fresh visuals from the shoot suggest that Hero has made key hardware and cosmetic updates, with the most noticeable being the introduction of upside-down (USD) front forks and a new bronze-finished engine casing. These changes indicate Hero’s intent to address the shortcomings of the earlier model and reposition the Mavrick 440 more competitively in India’s fast-evolving mid-capacity motorcycle market.
A Quick Recap – The Rise and Fall of the First Mavrick 440
Launched in early 2024, the Hero Mavrick 440 was built on the same platform as the Harley-Davidson X440, developed jointly by Hero and Harley under a strategic alliance.
While it was mechanically sound and offered a solid riding experience, the Mavrick 440 failed to make a strong impression in the 400cc roadster segment. It was Hero’s attempt to introduce a more affordable alternative to the Harley X440, but cost-cutting in design and features worked against it.
Key issues included:
- A basic telescopic fork instead of a USD unit
- Absence of a TFT display (available on the Harley X440)
- Understated styling that made it look more commuter-oriented than sporty
- Limited premium appeal, which discouraged buyers seeking style and technology
The motorcycle was quietly delisted from Hero’s official website in late 2025, after selling for less than 18 months. However, with this new sighting, it’s clear that Hero isn’t ready to give up on the Mavrick nameplate just yet.
New Updates on the Spotted Model
The new test unit spotted during the TVC shoot reveals several visual updates that align closely with the concept version showcased at EICMA 2024. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the observed changes:
1. Golden USD Forks
Perhaps the most prominent update, the new golden-anodized upside-down forks replace the earlier telescopic setup. These not only enhance front-end stiffness and handling precision but also dramatically improve the bike’s visual stance.
The thicker USD fork tubes lend the Mavrick a muscular, premium look, similar to international roadsters in the 400–500cc category. This change alone could significantly improve its appeal among younger riders who value performance aesthetics.
2. Brushed Bronze Engine Finish
The engine casing now sports a brushed bronze or copper tint, replacing the plain black finish of the outgoing model. This subtle detail gives the motorcycle a more refined appearance, complementing the grey paint scheme seen in the spy video.
Such cosmetic touches may seem minor, but they reflect Hero’s renewed focus on fit, finish, and perceived quality, areas where the previous model lagged behind its competitors.
3. Matte Grey Paint Scheme
The spotted Mavrick 440 retains the grey base color, but in a matte finish rather than the earlier glossy tone. Matte shades have become popular in the premium motorcycle segment, and this update aligns the Mavrick’s visual identity with current trends.
The overall color combination of matte grey with gold forks and bronze engine accents gives the bike a stealthy yet upscale presence — far sportier than before.
4. Possible TFT Display Integration
The EICMA 2024 version of the Mavrick 440 was displayed with a full-color TFT instrument cluster — the same unit used in the Harley-Davidson X440.
While the TVC-shoot bike’s dashboard isn’t clearly visible due to distance, there’s speculation that Hero might finally equip the production model with this digital unit. If confirmed, it would mark a big upgrade in tech, giving the Mavrick a modern edge over rivals like the Yezdi Roadster, Honda CB300R, and Bajaj Dominar 400.
Mechanical Setup and Engine Performance
Despite these visual and hardware changes, the core mechanical package is expected to remain largely unchanged.
The Mavrick 440 continues to use the 440cc, air- and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine, co-developed with Harley-Davidson. In its current tune, the motor produces 27 hp at 6,000 rpm and 36 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and slipper-assist clutch.
This powerplant is praised for its strong low-end torque, making it ideal for city commuting and relaxed highway cruising. The addition of USD forks could now translate that torque delivery into more confidence-inspiring handling, especially on twisty roads.
Design and Ergonomics
The Hero Mavrick 440 was always intended to be a mature, muscular roadster, but its visual proportions didn’t fully match the promise. With this update, Hero seems to have fixed that.
The thicker front forks, upright stance, and wider tyres give the motorcycle a proper big-bike feel. The riding triangle is expected to stay the same — upright handlebars, mid-set footpegs, and a slightly scooped seat — ensuring comfort during longer rides.
A few additional refinements like revised switchgear, premium grips, and improved seat texture may also make their way into the production version.
Chassis and Suspension
The Mavrick 440 is based on a tubular steel frame, designed for both rigidity and comfort. The upgraded USD fork setup at the front and twin shock absorbers with preload adjustability at the rear ensure a balanced ride.
Expect Hero to fine-tune the suspension damping to complement the improved front-end hardware, possibly delivering a more planted and agile ride quality.
Expected Features and Equipment
If Hero wants to position the Mavrick 440 competitively upon relaunch, the following feature updates are expected:
- TFT Display with smartphone connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation
- All-LED lighting setup
- USB-C charging port
- New switchgear design
- Bluetooth call and music controls
- Refined exhaust tuning for a deeper, sportier note
These features, combined with Hero’s reliability and service reach, could make the new Mavrick one of the most value-packed motorcycles in its segment.
Market Context – What Went Wrong and What’s Changing
Hero’s first attempt with the Mavrick 440 stumbled due to market positioning confusion. Priced close to ₹2.00 lakh (ex-showroom), it sat awkwardly between practical commuters and lifestyle roadsters. Riders willing to spend that much wanted premium appeal, not minimalism.
By contrast, its sibling, the Harley-Davidson X440, justified its higher price through premium hardware and the strong Harley branding.
With this update, Hero is clearly attempting to reposition the Mavrick as a true premium roadster, rather than a “budget Harley alternative.”
The inclusion of USD forks, a TFT dash, and refreshed styling could bridge that gap — giving riders the Harley performance DNA without the Harley price tag.
Expected Launch and Pricing
Given that the motorcycle was spotted during an advertising shoot, it’s safe to assume that the updated Mavrick 440 is nearing production readiness. Hero could officially unveil the refreshed model in early 2026, with sales likely commencing shortly after.
Pricing is expected to start around ₹2.10 lakh (ex-showroom) — slightly higher than before, but justified by the upgraded components.
Competition in the Segment
When it launches, the updated Hero Mavrick 440 will compete with several established players in the mid-displacement space:
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 / Hunter 350
- Honda CB300R
- Bajaj Dominar 400
- Yezdi Roadster
- Harley-Davidson X440
With its modern features, muscular build, and improved suspension, the Mavrick could carve out its own niche among riders who prefer performance blended with practicality.
