Hero Splendor 135: In the ever-evolving landscape of two-wheelers, Hero MotoCorp has once again pushed the boundaries with its latest offering – the Hero Splendor 135.
This new entrant in the commuter segment is poised to revolutionize the market with its impressive features, enhanced performance, and eco-friendly credentials. Let’s delve into what makes the Splendor 135 a game-changer in its class.
Design and Aesthetics
The Hero Splendor 135 retains the iconic silhouette that has made the Splendor series a household name, but with a modern twist.
The bike sports a sleek, aerodynamic design that not only enhances its visual appeal but also improves its fuel efficiency.
Key design elements include:
Redesigned Headlamp Cluster: The bike now features an LED setup, providing better illumination and giving the bike a premium look.
Sculpted Body Panels: The panels have been redesigned to provide a more muscular appearance while maintaining the simplicity that Splendor users have come to love.
Vibrant Color Options: Available in a range of colors including Sparkling Blue, Tornado Grey, and Radiant Red, catering to diverse tastes.
Sporty Graphics: Bold graphics add a youthful and energetic touch to the overall design.
The design philosophy behind the Splendor 135 seems to be a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, appealing to both long-time Splendor enthusiasts and new-age riders looking for a stylish commuter.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Splendor 135 lies a new 134.5cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This powerplant is a significant upgrade from its predecessors, offering a perfect balance of performance and efficiency.
Engine specifications:
Displacement: 134.5cc
Power Output: 11.5 bhp at 7500 rpm
Peak Torque: 11.5 Nm at 6000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
The increased displacement translates to better low-end torque, making city riding a breeze. The engine is mated to a smooth 5-speed gearbox,
allowing for better gear ratios and improved top-end performance. Despite the power boost, Hero has managed to keep the engine refined, with minimal vibrations even at higher speeds.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the standout features of the Splendor 135 is its exceptional fuel efficiency. Hero claims a mileage of 72 kmpl under standard testing conditions,
making it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its segment. Real-world mileage may vary, but users can expect figures north of 65 kmpl in city conditions.
This impressive fuel efficiency is achieved through a combination of factors:
Advanced fuel injection system
Optimized engine tuning
Reduced weight through the use of lightweight materials
Improved aerodynamics
The i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology further enhances fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when idling and restarting it when the clutch is engaged.
Ride and Handling
The Splendor 135 comes equipped with a suspension setup designed to offer comfort and stability:
Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers
This suspension setup offers a plush ride quality, absorbing most road imperfections with ease. The longer wheelbase of 1270mm provides excellent stability, especially at higher speeds.
Other notable features enhancing ride and handling include:
18-inch Alloy Wheels: Shod with tubeless tires, offering better grip and safety
Increased Ground Clearance: 180mm ensures that the Splendor 135 can tackle rough roads and speed breakers without breaking a sweat
Braking System: Disc brake in the front and drum brake in the rear, coupled with CBS (Combined Braking System) for improved braking performance
Features and Technology
Hero has packed the Splendor 135 with a host of features that set it apart in the commuter segment:
Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster:
Displays essential information like speed, fuel level, and trip meter
Includes a real-time mileage indicator
i3S Technology:
Hero’s patented Idle Start-Stop System
Automatically shuts off the engine when idling and restarts it when the clutch is engaged
Enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions
USB Charging Port:
Allows riders to keep their devices charged on the go
LED Lighting:
All-LED setup includes headlamp, taillight, and turn indicators
Provides better visibility and a modern look
Side-Stand Indicator:
Safety feature that prevents the bike from starting if the side stand is engaged
Tubeless Tires:
More durable and safe than regular tires
Less prone to sudden deflation in case of a puncture
Safety Features
Safety hasn’t been overlooked in the Splendor 135. The bike comes with:
Combined Braking System (CBS): For better braking performance
Engine Kill Switch: For emergency situations
High-Strength Frame: For improved structural integrity
Anti-Theft System
: An immobilizer system to prevent unauthorized use
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Splendor 135 continues the legacy of its predecessors in terms of comfort:
Wide, Well-Cushioned Seat: Provides ample support for both rider and pillion
Upright Riding Position: Coupled with perfectly positioned footpegs and handlebars
Reduced Vibrations
: Engine refinements ensure fatigue-free riding even on long journeys
Environmental Credentials
In line with the growing focus on environmental sustainability, the Splendor 135 is BS6 compliant. The engine incorporates advanced emission control technologies, including:
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI): For optimized fuel combustion
Enhanced Catalytic Converter: For reduced emissions
Oxygen Sensor: For real-time air-fuel mixture adjustment
These features not only make the Splendor 135 eco-friendly but also contribute to its impressive fuel efficiency.
Target Audience and Market Positioning
The Hero Splendor 135 is positioned as a premium commuter, targeting:
Urban Professionals: Those who desire a reliable, efficient, and feature-rich motorcycle for their daily commute
Small Business Owners: Individuals looking for a dependable and economical two-wheeler for business operations
Semi-Urban and Rural Customers: Those seeking a robust and fuel-efficient bike that can handle diverse road conditions
The bike’s blend of performance, efficiency, and features makes it an attractive option for a wide range of consumers across different demographics.
Price and Value Proposition
Priced competitively in the range of ₹75,000 to ₹80,000 (ex-showroom), the Splendor 135 offers excellent value for money. When compared to its competitors in the 125-150cc segment, the Splendor 135 stands out with its blend of performance, efficiency, and features.
Comparison with Competitors
To understand the Splendor 135’s position in the market, let’s compare it with some of its key competitors:
Honda SP 125:
Similar power output but slightly lower torque
Comparable fuel efficiency
The Splendor 135 offers a larger fuel tank and better ground clearance
Bajaj Pulsar 125:
The Pulsar offers slightly more power but at the cost of fuel efficiency
The Splendor 135 provides better comfort for long rides
TVS Raider 125:
The Raider offers more features but at a higher price point
The Splendor 135 wins in terms of brand trust and service network
After-Sales Service and Warranty
Hero MotoCorp’s extensive service network is a significant advantage for the Splendor 135. The company offers:
2-Year Standard Warranty: Covering 30,000 km
Optional Extended Warranty: Up to 5 years or 50,000 km
24×7 Roadside Assistance
: Available in select cities
The wide availability of spare parts and the familiarity of mechanics with the Splendor series ensure easy and cost-effective maintenance.
Future Prospects and Potential Updates
As the automotive industry moves towards electrification, there’s speculation about future iterations of the Splendor series:
Hybrid Version: A potential hybrid Splendor combining the reliability of the petrol engine with the efficiency of an electric motor
Connectivity Features: Future updates might include smartphone connectivity and navigation features
Advanced Safety Features
: Potential inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) in future models
User Reviews and Initial Reception
Early user reviews and expert opinions on the Splendor 135 have been largely positive:
Comfort: Many users praise the improved seat comfort and reduced vibrations
Performance: The extra power is appreciated, especially for highway rides
Fuel Efficiency: Real-world mileage reports are close to the company’s claims, impressing users
Features: The digital console and LED lights are frequently mentioned as standout features
However, some users have noted:
- Price: A few feel the price is slightly on the higher side compared to the base Splendor models
- Weight: The slight increase in weight is noticeable to some long-time Splendor users
Conclusion
The Hero Splendor 135 is more than just an upgrade; it’s a reimagining of what a commuter motorcycle can be.
By combining the trusted reliability of the Splendor brand with modern technology and enhanced performance, Hero MotoCorp has created a motorcycle that’s perfectly suited for the evolving needs of the Indian consumer.
Whether you’re a long-time Splendor fan or a new rider looking for the perfect commuter, the Splendor 135 deserves serious consideration.
It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a statement that efficiency, performance, and style can coexist in perfect harmony.
As the automotive industry moves towards a more sustainable future, the Hero Splendor 135 stands as a testament to Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
It’s not just keeping up with the times; it’s setting the pace for the future of commuter motorcycles in India and beyond.
The Splendor 135 represents a significant step forward in the evolution of commuter motorcycles. It addresses the changing needs of the modern rider while staying true to the core values that have made the Splendor name synonymous with reliability and efficiency.
As urban landscapes change and environmental concerns grow, bikes like the Splendor 135 will play a crucial role in shaping the future of personal transportation in India and similar markets around the world.