In the world of two-wheelers, few names resonate as deeply as the Hero Splendor Plus. Known for its reliability, efficiency, and practicality, the Splendor Plus has been a cornerstone of the Indian motorcycle market for decades. With the introduction of its latest iteration,
Hero MotoCorp has infused this iconic model with modern features and design updates, ensuring it remains a top choice for riders in India. The new Hero Splendor Plus continues to build on its legacy, offering a perfect blend of timeless charm and contemporary technology.
A Design That Balances Tradition and Modernity
The Hero Splendor Plus has always been known for its simple yet appealing design, and the new model stays true to its roots while incorporating subtle modern touches. The bike retains its classic silhouette, which includes a rectangular headlamp, minimalistic fuel tank, and comfortable seat, but now features updated graphics and color schemes to appeal to a younger audience.
Hero MotoCorp has introduced vibrant color options for the Splendor Plus, such as Black with Silver, Candy Blazing Red, and Heavy Grey with Green, allowing riders to choose a style that suits their personality. The chrome accents on the exhaust and engine casing add a premium touch, while the body panels have been refined to enhance aerodynamics without compromising the bike’s iconic look.
Performance and Engine: Built for Daily Reliability
The Hero Splendor Plus is powered by a proven 97.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that has been the backbone of its success. This engine, now upgraded to meet BS6 emission norms, ensures a cleaner and more efficient ride. It delivers a modest yet adequate 7.9 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. These numbers might not seem groundbreaking, but they are perfect for the bike’s primary role as a dependable commuter.
Hero has equipped the Splendor Plus with its i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology, which helps conserve fuel during idle times, such as at traffic signals. This feature, coupled with the bike’s lightweight frame and efficient engine, ensures exceptional mileage figures of approximately 65–70 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in its class.
The engine is mated to a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox, offering smooth and precise shifts. Whether it’s navigating crowded city streets or cruising on highways, the Splendor Plus delivers a stress-free and reliable performance.
Ride and Handling: Comfortable and Confidence-Inspiring
The Hero Splendor Plus is designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, even on rough roads. The bike features a telescopic hydraulic shock absorber at the front and a 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorber at the rear. This suspension setup ensures that the bike absorbs road imperfections effectively, making it a favorite for riders who tackle challenging terrains daily.
With a kerb weight of just 112 kg, the Splendor Plus is incredibly easy to handle. Its lightweight nature, combined with a well-tuned chassis, allows for effortless maneuverability, even in congested traffic. The bike’s 130mm drum brakes on both ends provide adequate stopping power, while the optional Integrated Braking System (IBS) enhances safety by distributing brake force evenly between the front and rear wheels.
The 18-inch wheels, fitted with tubeless tires, offer good grip and stability, ensuring a confident ride across varying road conditions.
Features and Technology: Simple Yet Functional
The new Hero Splendor Plus stays true to its no-frills approach but introduces some thoughtful upgrades that enhance the overall riding experience. The semi-digital instrument cluster is a notable addition, displaying essential information such as speed, fuel level, odometer, and trip meter. The inclusion of a side-stand engine cut-off feature is another practical update, preventing the engine from starting if the side stand is engaged.
Hero has also equipped the bike with LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), which not only improve visibility but also add a modern touch to its design. While the Splendor Plus doesn’t boast advanced connectivity features like smartphone integration or navigation, its straightforward functionality aligns with the needs of its target audience.
Additional convenience features include a spacious under-seat storage compartment, a luggage rack at the rear, and a USB charging port for on-the-go device charging.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Ideal for Daily Commutes
Comfort has always been a strong suit of the Hero Splendor Plus, and the new model takes this a step further. The long, well-cushioned seat provides ample support for both the rider and pillion, making it suitable for extended rides. The upright riding posture, combined with wide handlebars and centrally positioned footpegs, reduces fatigue and ensures a relaxed riding experience.
The bike’s compact dimensions and low seat height make it accessible to riders of all sizes, including beginners. Its user-friendly ergonomics and lightweight nature make it a popular choice among both first-time riders and experienced commuters.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility
The Hero Splendor Plus is renowned for its fuel efficiency, a trait that has made it a favorite among cost-conscious riders. With the BS6-compliant engine and i3S technology, the new model achieves excellent mileage figures, significantly reducing fuel expenses. Its frugal nature ensures that riders can cover long distances with minimal fuel consumption, making it an economical choice for daily commuting.
In addition to its fuel efficiency, the bike’s adherence to stringent BS6 emission norms reflects Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The cleaner engine produces fewer emissions, contributing to a greener and healthier environment.
Durability and Maintenance: A Legacy of Reliability
One of the key reasons behind the enduring popularity of the Hero Splendor Plus is its unmatched reliability and low maintenance costs. Built with robust components and a time-tested engine, the bike is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Hero’s extensive service network ensures easy access to genuine spare parts and professional maintenance, further enhancing the bike’s longevity.
The Splendor Plus has earned a reputation for being virtually indestructible, making it a trusted companion for millions of riders across India. Whether it’s the scorching heat of summer, monsoon rains, or the biting cold of winter, the Splendor Plus delivers consistent performance, earning the trust of generations.
Target Audience and Versatility
The Hero Splendor Plus caters to a wide range of riders, making it one of the most versatile motorcycles on the market. It is an ideal choice for daily commuters who prioritize fuel efficiency and reliability. Its lightweight design and user-friendly nature make it perfect for new riders, while its affordability and low running costs appeal to budget-conscious individuals.
In rural areas, the bike’s rugged build and ability to handle challenging terrains make it a reliable workhorse. For urban riders, its compact dimensions and easy maneuverability ensure hassle-free navigation through traffic. The Splendor Plus is also a favorite among small business owners, thanks to its practicality and cost-effectiveness.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Hero Splendor Plus is competitively priced, making it accessible to a broad audience. Its combination of low initial cost, exceptional fuel efficiency, and minimal maintenance expenses ensures excellent value for money. Government subsidies and financing options further enhance its affordability, allowing more riders to experience the benefits of this iconic motorcycle.
Conclusion: A Timeless Companion
The Hero Splendor Plus continues to be a benchmark in the 100cc commuter segment, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Its enduring appeal lies in its reliability, efficiency, and practicality, qualities that have made it a trusted companion for millions of riders over the years.
With its latest updates, the Splendor Plus remains relevant in a rapidly evolving market, meeting the needs of modern riders while staying true to its roots. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned commuter, or someone looking for a dependable workhorse, the Hero Splendor Plus is a motorcycle that promises to deliver value, performance, and satisfaction for years to come.