In the vast landscape of Indian motorcycles, one name has stood the test of time, consistently dominating sales charts and winning hearts across the nation – the Hero Splendor Plus.
As we delve into the latest iteration of this iconic two-wheeler, it’s clear that Hero MotoCorp has once again refined its winning formula, ensuring the Splendor Plus remains at the forefront of the commuter segment.
A Legacy Reimagined
The Hero Splendor Plus, a name synonymous with reliability and efficiency, has undergone a subtle yet significant transformation in its latest avatar.
While maintaining its classic silhouette that has become a familiar sight on Indian roads, Hero has introduced modern touches that bring the Splendor Plus firmly into the present day.
The new model sports a refreshed design language, with sharper lines and more pronounced contours giving it a contemporary edge.
The iconic fuel tank retains its shape but now features new graphics that add a dash of style without compromising the Splendor’s timeless appeal. The side panels and rear cowl have been redesigned, offering a more integrated look that enhances the bike’s overall aesthetic.
Heart of the Matter: Refined Performance
At the core of the new Splendor Plus lies its tried-and-tested 97.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
However, Hero’s engineers have worked their magic to enhance its performance and efficiency.
The engine now boasts Hero’s advanced i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology, which automatically shuts off the engine at traffic stops and restarts it with a simple clutch pull, significantly improving fuel efficiency in urban riding conditions.
The powerplant churns out a modest but adequate 8.02 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm.
These figures might seem conservative, but they translate to peppy performance in real-world conditions, especially considering the bike’s target audience of urban commuters and rural users.
The four-speed gearbox has been refined for smoother shifts, making the riding experience more comfortable, especially during long commutes.
Hero claims a fuel efficiency figure of up to 80 kmpl under ideal conditions, a number that cements the Splendor Plus’s position as one of the most economical two-wheelers in the market.
Riding Comfort: Balancing Act
Ride comfort has always been a strong suit of the Splendor Plus, and the new model takes it a notch higher.
The suspension setup, consisting of telescopic forks at the front and 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear, has been fine-tuned to offer a plush ride over various road conditions.
The long, comfortable seat has been redesigned with better cushioning and contours, ensuring that both rider and pillion can undertake long journeys without fatigue.
The ergonomics have been carefully considered, with the handlebar, seat, and footpegs positioned to provide an upright riding posture that’s ideal for city commutes and highway jaunts alike.
Safety First: Braking and Features
In line with current safety regulations, the new Splendor Plus comes equipped with Hero’s Integrated Braking System (IBS).
This system ensures that when the rear brake is applied, the front brake is also engaged to a certain degree, providing more balanced and safer braking performance.
The bike rides on 18-inch wheels shod with tubeless tires, offering better stability and ease of maintenance. The inclusion of tubeless tires is a welcome addition, providing added safety against sudden deflations and making puncture repairs more convenient.
Tech-Savvy Touches
While the Splendor Plus remains true to its no-frills commuter roots, Hero has incorporated some modern features to enhance its appeal.
The new model boasts a semi-digital instrument cluster that includes an analog speedometer and a digital display for the odometer, trip meter, and fuel gauge. The inclusion of a real-time fuel efficiency indicator helps riders optimize their riding style for maximum economy.
Other notable features include a side-stand indicator with engine cut-off function, enhancing safety and preventing unintended fuel wastage. The bike also comes with an engine immobilizer as standard, providing an extra layer of security against theft.
Color Palette: Choices Galore
Understanding the importance of personalization, Hero offers the new Splendor Plus in a range of attractive colors.
From classic shades like Black with Purple, Black with Red, and Heavy Grey with Green, to more vibrant options like Candy Blazing Red and Matte Shield Gold, there’s a color to suit every taste.
Market Positioning: Defending the Crown
The Hero Splendor Plus continues to be positioned as the go-to commuter motorcycle for the masses.
Its combination of reliability, fuel efficiency, and now, enhanced style and features, makes it an attractive proposition for a wide range of users – from daily office-goers in crowded cities to small business owners in rural areas.
Hero MotoCorp’s extensive sales and service network across India further strengthens the Splendor Plus’s appeal, ensuring that owners have easy access to maintenance and spare parts, a crucial factor for many buyers in this segment.
Environmental Considerations
In an era of increasing environmental awareness, Hero has ensured that the new Splendor Plus is compliant with the latest BS6 emission norms.
The engine has been optimized to reduce emissions without compromising on performance or fuel efficiency, aligning with Hero’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
Hero Splendor Plus : The Legend Continues
As we look at the latest iteration of the Hero Splendor Plus, it’s clear that this is more than just a cosmetic update.
Hero MotoCorp has carefully evolved its bestseller, adding modern touches and enhancing its core strengths while retaining the DNA that has made it India’s favorite commuter for decades.
The new Splendor Plus is a testament to Hero’s understanding of the Indian two-wheeler market. It offers the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, efficiency and performance, all wrapped in a package that remains accessible to the masses.
As India’s mobility needs evolve, the Splendor Plus proves that it’s more than capable of keeping pace, ready to carry forward its legacy for years to come.
In a market flooded with options, the Hero Splendor Plus stands tall, not just as a motorcycle, but as a cultural icon that continues to resonate with millions of Indians.
It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing so with reliability, efficiency, and now, a touch of contemporary style. The legend of the Splendor Plus isn’t just continuing – it’s evolving, adapting, and setting new benchmarks in the commuter segment.