In the sprawling world of commuter motorcycles, one name stands tall above the rest: the Hero Splendor. A true legend in the Indian two-wheeler market, the Splendor series has etched its place in the minds of millions of riders over the past few decades.
Synonymous with affordability, reliability, and incredible fuel efficiency, the Splendor became a household name—often the first choice of families, small business owners, and daily commuters. Now, in an age where riders increasingly demand more convenience, connectivity, and style, Hero MotoCorp has introduced a new chapter to this enduring saga: the Splendor Plus Xtec.
This modern spin on the classic commuter blends proven engineering with contemporary features to enhance the overall riding experience. As the Indian market grows more technologically inclined and comfort-oriented, the Splendor Plus Xtec stands as both a nod to its storied past and a leap forward into the future.
With its advanced instrumentation, safety enhancements, and subtle style tweaks, the Xtec iteration aims to keep the Splendor name as relevant and trusted as ever—just more aligned with the digital age.
A Brief History of the Splendor Legacy
To understand why the Splendor Plus Xtec matters, it helps to know where this iconic motorcycle line comes from. The original Splendor was first introduced in the mid-1990s when Hero was still operating in partnership with Honda, then known as Hero Honda. Born out of the successful CD100 and its successors, the Splendor built upon the company’s reputation for creating bikes that were simple, efficient, and durable. The Splendor’s formula was uncomplicated: a highly fuel-efficient engine, a comfortable riding posture suited for Indian road conditions, and low running costs—all wrapped up in a clean, understated design.
Over the decades, the Splendor has evolved through various cosmetic and mechanical updates while preserving its core identity. Even after the Hero-Honda partnership ended, Hero MotoCorp retained the Splendor brand and continued refining it. Models like the Splendor Plus, Super Splendor, and Splendor iSmart expanded the family, each addressing slightly different buyer preferences. Yet, at its heart, the Splendor series remained focused on delivering easy ownership, minimal maintenance, and long-term reliability. It’s these values that have cemented its place as one of the world’s highest-selling motorcycle platforms.
Why the Xtec Variant?
As technology advances, even the most time-honored products must adapt. The modern rider is no longer satisfied with just fuel efficiency and dependability. They look for features like digital connectivity, real-time ride information, and enhanced safety systems. Competitors in the commuter segment have begun offering semi-digital or fully digital instrument clusters, smartphone connectivity, USB charging ports, and other conveniences that align two-wheelers with the digital lifestyle of the current generation.
The Splendor Plus Xtec, introduced in 2022, is Hero’s response to this changing market landscape. While the mechanical core remains trusted and familiar, the Xtec variant brings a suite of modern features to the table. It aims to ensure the Splendor brand does not fall behind in the digital age—while still preserving the essence that made it famous.
Design and Styling: Familiar Yet Refined
At first glance, the Splendor Plus Xtec looks much like its predecessors. Hero MotoCorp has sensibly chosen not to abandon the Splendor’s iconic silhouette. The simple, no-nonsense lines remain intact. The fuel tank retains its classic shape, and the body panels evoke an understated elegance that has always defined the Splendor family. However, look closer, and you’ll see subtle improvements that hint at the Xtec’s modern nature.
One notable change is the introduction of new body graphics, which lend a fresher, more dynamic appeal. The paint finish has a premium feel, reflecting Hero’s intent to give the rider something that looks more upmarket than the vanilla commuter of old. The headlamp now includes LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), giving the bike a more contemporary face and improving visibility on the road. These subtle styling updates signal a careful balancing act: modernizing without alienating the legions of fans who appreciate the Splendor’s classic ethos.
Engine and Performance: The Heart Remains the Same
Under the skin, the Splendor Plus Xtec relies on the tried-and-tested air-cooled, 97.2cc single-cylinder engine that has powered countless Splendor variants. This engine is as close to bulletproof as they come in the commuter segment. Generating around 7.9 bhp and 8.05 Nm of torque, it is not designed for adrenaline-pumping performance, but for consistency, fuel efficiency, and minimal maintenance. For riders zipping through crowded streets, weaving between cars, or covering daily commutes, this engine delivers predictable, smooth power delivery and outstanding mileage—somewhere north of 65-70 km/l under real-world conditions.
The 4-speed gearbox remains effortlessly tractable. Shifts are smooth, and the bike’s gearing is optimized for city speeds and occasional highway sprints. The Splendor Plus Xtec is not about thrilling top-end rush; it’s about starting reliably every morning, stopping infrequently at fuel pumps, and running for years with minimal fuss. The engine’s legendary durability means maintenance costs remain low—one of the key reasons why the Splendor name resonates deeply with cost-conscious buyers.
Chassis and Ride Quality: Enhancing Comfort and Stability
The frame and suspension setup in the Splendor Plus Xtec remain largely unchanged from the standard Splendor Plus. A conventional telescopic fork in the front and a set of hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear offer a familiar, comfortable ride. The Splendor has always excelled at tackling Indian road conditions—bumpy tarmac, potholes, and uneven surfaces. The suspension tuning ensures the rider and pillion experience minimal discomfort, making it a preferred choice for daily commutes.
With the Xtec variant, the focus is less on altering the ride quality—since that’s a proven strength—and more on improving other aspects of the riding experience. The upright seating position, wide and well-padded seat, and easy-to-reach handlebars remain hallmarks of the Splendor family. The bike’s lightweight construction and low seat height make it approachable for new riders and shorter individuals as well. This accessibility is critical, as the Splendor’s broad customer base includes first-time bike owners and those who view a motorcycle primarily as a dependable mobility tool.
The Xtec Advantage: Connectivity and Features
The most prominent differentiator in the Splendor Plus Xtec model is its advanced instrument cluster and connectivity features. The all-digital instrument panel replaces the analog unit found in older models, presenting the rider with a clear, comprehensive view of essential data. The display typically includes a speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, and indicators for various lights. The move to digital instrumentation is a welcome one, bringing the Splendor line into the current generation of commuter motorcycles.
But the Xtec isn’t stopping there. Hero has integrated Bluetooth connectivity into the console, enabling pairing with a smartphone app. Through this connection, riders can access features such as turn-by-turn navigation and call/message alerts directly on the display. This is a significant leap for a commuter motorcycle that historically never ventured into the digital realm. Being able to follow navigation prompts on the instrument panel without constantly checking a phone allows for safer and more convenient city rides. Additionally, receiving call alerts ensures that important communications aren’t missed, while still encouraging safe riding since the rider doesn’t need to fumble with their phone mid-journey.
To round out the tech-friendly feature list, the Splendor Plus Xtec offers a USB charging port, making it possible for riders to charge their phones on the go. In a world increasingly dependent on smartphones for everything from navigation to payments, this small addition can have a big impact on a rider’s daily life.
Safety Upgrades: Small Steps Forward
Safety remains paramount, and while the Splendor Plus Xtec is still a commuter motorcycle at heart, Hero has included features to improve rider confidence. The inclusion of side-stand engine cutoff, for instance, prevents accidental starts if the stand is down. This seemingly minor addition can prevent mishaps, especially for new riders who may forget to retract the stand.
While the braking system remains drum-based—keeping costs and complexity low—the integrated braking system (IBS) ensures more stable and controlled braking, reducing the likelihood of skidding. Many riders in this category rely on their motorcycles to navigate congested cities, so having stable and predictable braking is vital for safety. Of course, riders hoping for advanced safety aids like ABS may need to look at other models or segments, but IBS is a welcome touch given the Splendor’s focus on affordability and simplicity.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Considerations
As environmental awareness and regulatory standards tighten, motorcycles need to be cleaner and more efficient than ever. The Splendor series has historically performed well in this regard, and the Xtec continues that tradition. By using Hero’s proven engine management and emission control systems, the Splendor Plus Xtec meets the latest emission norms (BS6 in India), reducing harmful pollutants. The high mileage helps reduce the carbon footprint indirectly as well, since less fuel consumption means fewer emissions over the bike’s operational life.
Hero’s i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology, available on many of its models, could be a noteworthy consideration here. While the standard Splendor Plus variants offer i3S, which automatically turns off the engine during idling (like at traffic lights) and restarts it when the clutch is pressed, this can further enhance the Xtec’s fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Such technologies show Hero’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions, ensuring that even budget-friendly commuters contribute to cleaner air and reduced fuel wastage.
Ownership Experience: Building on Trust and Service
One of the key reasons for the Splendor’s long-lasting popularity is the ownership experience. Spare parts are easily accessible, servicing is straightforward, and Hero’s extensive dealership network ensures help is never far away. The Splendor Plus Xtec inherits this strong foundation. Buyers can expect timely and affordable servicing, a steady supply of genuine parts, and dedicated service personnel familiar with the platform.
For cost-conscious customers—who form the backbone of the Splendor’s market—this peace of mind is invaluable. Owning a motorcycle that rarely breaks down, is easy to maintain, and can be serviced quickly and cheaply makes life easier in countless ways. Whether you’re a student, a small business owner making deliveries around town, or a professional commuting daily, a hassle-free ownership experience matters. The Xtec variant, by adding modern features without complicating maintenance, ensures that new-age riders can enjoy both the old-world reliability and the benefits of modern connectivity.
Who Should Consider the Splendor Plus Xtec?
The Splendor Plus Xtec is best suited for riders who appreciate the Splendor’s core strengths—reliability, affordability, comfort—but also want to keep up with the times. If the idea of digital connectivity, navigation assistance, and smartphone alerts appeals to you, but you don’t want to spend a fortune upgrading to a higher segment or a more expensive motorcycle, the Xtec is an excellent fit.
For younger riders entering the workforce, the Splendor Plus Xtec represents a bridge between the past and the future. They may have fond memories of seeing Splendors in their family or neighborhood, and now they can own one that speaks their digital language. For older riders, it’s a chance to embrace modern conveniences without leaving the familiarity of a brand and model they’ve trusted for years.
Competition and the Road Ahead
The commuter segment in India is fiercely competitive. Rivals like the Honda CD110, TVS Radeon, and Bajaj Platina also cater to the same set of buyers. To stay relevant, Hero must continually innovate. The Splendor Plus Xtec shows that the company is unafraid to evolve one of its oldest and most iconic brands.
As the motorcycle industry continues to shift towards e-mobility and advanced safety features, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Hero incorporate more technology into future iterations of the Splendor lineup. For now, the Xtec variant is a carefully measured step forward—pushing the envelope just enough to keep pace with changing consumer expectations, but not so radically that it alienates the core customer base.
Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Modernity
The Splendor Plus Xtec can be seen as the next logical step in the evolution of a brand that has been an industry mainstay for nearly three decades. It preserves the fundamental qualities that made the Splendor a household name—robust engineering, unmatched reliability, and commendable fuel efficiency—while adding a layer of modernity that today’s riders appreciate.
From the digital instrument cluster and Bluetooth connectivity to the USB charging port and improved styling, the Xtec transforms the Splendor from a purely utilitarian commuter into something a bit more in tune with the times. It’s not a revolutionary change, but a thoughtful update, ensuring the Splendor’s legacy endures in a world that increasingly demands connectivity and convenience.
For Hero MotoCorp, the Splendor Plus Xtec represents a successful balancing act. It retains the affordability and simplicity that made the Splendor a legend, yet aligns it better with contemporary lifestyles. For riders, it’s a reassurance that they can trust their beloved Splendor brand to evolve along with them. In this measured progression lies the true genius of the Splendor Plus Xtec—an evolution that honors its storied past while confidently embracing the future.