Hero Splendor plus: In the realm of Indian two-wheelers, few names command the level of respect and trust that the Hero Splendor enjoys. For over three decades, this legendary commuter motorcycle has been the backbone of Indian mobility, serving millions of riders with unwavering reliability, exceptional fuel efficiency, and affordable ownership.

As we enter 2025, Hero MotoCorp continues to evolve this iconic nameplate, introducing meaningful updates while preserving the fundamental qualities that have made the Splendor family India’s best-selling motorcycle range.

The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus represents more than just an annual update—it embodies Hero’s commitment to continuous improvement while respecting the core values that have made this motorcycle a household name across India.

With recent spy shots revealing significant enhancements including disc brake technology and nostalgic color schemes, the upcoming model promises to strengthen the Splendor’s position as the ultimate practical commuter motorcycle.

Hero Splendor plus Market Legacy and Sales Dominance

The Hero Splendor’s journey began in the 1990s when it revolutionized the Indian commuter motorcycle segment with its perfect blend of fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability.

Today, decades later, the Splendor remains one of India’s highest-selling motorcycles, consistently topping sales charts and establishing benchmarks for the entire industry.

Hero has sold 3,01,584 units of the Splendor range in March 2025 (including the Splendor Plus Xtec). The manufacturer sold 1,93,791 units in the previous month.

These impressive figures underscore the continued relevance and market acceptance of the Splendor family, even in an increasingly competitive landscape filled with feature-rich alternatives.

The manufacturer launched its new OBD2B-compliant variants – Drum Brake OBD2B, i3S OBD2B, and I3S Black and Accent OBD2B – on 15 April 2025.

This update ensures the Splendor Plus meets the latest emission standards while maintaining its characteristic efficiency and performance. The seamless transition to stricter environmental norms demonstrates Hero’s commitment to regulatory compliance without compromising the bike’s core appeal.

The Splendor’s enduring success stems from its ability to consistently deliver what Indian riders value most: exceptional fuel economy, robust build quality, minimal maintenance requirements, and nationwide service accessibility.

These fundamentals have remained unchanged despite evolving market dynamics, ensuring that the Splendor continues to attract both first-time buyers and loyal customers seeking to upgrade within the family.

Design Evolution and Aesthetic Updates

The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus maintains its timeless design philosophy while incorporating subtle yet meaningful updates that enhance both visual appeal and functionality.

The Splendor Plus bike has a sleek and minimalist design that offers wonderful maneuverability in city traffic. The front end features a rectangular headlamp with a halogen bulb and rectangular turn indicators.

Recent spy shots have revealed exciting developments for the 2025 model year. One of them is the swanky red colour variant with golden decals while the other trim is finished in an understated grey shade.

The introduction of the Candy Red variant represents a nostalgic return to the early 2000s aesthetic that many longtime Splendor enthusiasts remember fondly. This color choice acknowledges the motorcycle’s heritage while appealing to riders who appreciate classic styling.

The Matte Axis Grey option provides a more contemporary alternative that aligns with current design trends. This sophisticated shade offers a premium appearance that elevates the Splendor’s visual appeal without compromising its accessible positioning.

The combination of traditional and modern color options ensures that the 2025 Splendor Plus can satisfy diverse aesthetic preferences across different age groups and market segments.

The side profile flaunts a sturdy metallic leg guard and a sleek fuel tank design with graphics. The side panel also exhibits graphics along with the model emblem. This Hero two-wheeler further showcases a single-seat design, a pillion grab bar, and a small carrier to carry the luggage.

These practical design elements reflect the motorcycle’s commitment to real-world utility while maintaining visual coherence.

Engine Performance and Efficiency Engineering

At the heart of the 2025 Splendor Plus lies Hero’s proven 97.2cc powerplant, a thoroughly tested and refined engine that has established benchmarks for efficiency and reliability in the commuter segment.

The Splendor Plus gets a 97.2cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that comes mated to a four-speed manual gearbox. The engine develops a peak power and torque of 7.91bhp at 8000 rpm and 8.05 Nm at 6000 rpm, respectively.

While these output figures might appear modest compared to larger displacement motorcycles, the engine’s character perfectly suits the demands of Indian commuting. The power delivery is smooth and linear, providing adequate acceleration for urban traffic scenarios while maintaining the relaxed, unstressed operation that contributes to the engine’s legendary durability and fuel efficiency.

Hero claims that the Splendor Plus mileage is – km/l. However, real-world user reports consistently indicate fuel efficiency figures in the range of 60-70 kmpl, making it one of the most economical motorcycles available in India.

The most fuel efficient Hero Splendor model is Splendor Plus Xtec with real mileage of 70 kmpl. This exceptional efficiency makes the Splendor Plus particularly attractive for daily commuters, commercial users, and anyone seeking to minimize transportation costs.

The engine incorporates Hero’s XSens technology, which utilizes intelligent sensors to optimize the air-fuel mixture continuously. These deliveries and programmed fuel injection systems make the vehicle offer wonderful fuel efficiency and performance.

The system monitors various engine parameters in real-time, ensuring optimal combustion under different riding conditions while maintaining consistent fuel economy.

Advanced Technology Integration

The 2025 Splendor Plus incorporates several technological enhancements that improve both efficiency and user convenience. The Splendor Plus now features i3S Technology, enhancing fuel efficiency by cleverly shutting off the engine during idle moments, like at traffic lights for over 10 seconds.

The engine smoothly restarts with a press of the clutch, saving up to 10% fuel in stop-and-go scenarios.

This idle start-stop system represents a significant advancement in urban fuel efficiency, particularly valuable in India’s congested city traffic where motorcycles frequently spend considerable time stationary.

The technology operates seamlessly without requiring any conscious effort from the rider, making it an ideal solution for reducing both fuel consumption and emissions in real-world riding conditions.

The Hero Splendor Plus motorcycle gets a boost with xSens Programmed Fi Technology, enhancing the fuel injection system. Using a range of sensors, it collects engine data, allowing the software to precisely determine and inject the optimal amount of fuel.

This sophisticated engine management system ensures consistent performance across varying riding conditions while maximizing efficiency and minimizing emissions.

The integration of these advanced technologies demonstrates Hero’s commitment to incorporating modern engineering solutions while maintaining the simplicity and reliability that Splendor owners value.

The systems operate transparently, enhancing the riding experience without adding complexity that could compromise dependability or increase maintenance requirements.

Safety Features and Braking Technology

Safety considerations in the 2025 Splendor Plus have received significant attention, with meaningful improvements that enhance rider protection without compromising affordability.

One of the biggest changes spotted on the upcoming 2025 Hero Splendor Plus is the introduction of a front disc brake. This represents a major advancement for a motorcycle that has traditionally relied on drum brake technology.

The addition of disc brake technology addresses one of the few criticisms traditionally leveled at the Splendor family.

The most notable update it gets is a front disc brake which looks like the same unit as on the Splendor Plus Xtec, a more modern iteration of the motorcycle with a digital screen. This will certainly enhance the safety quotient of the bike with better stopping power as compared to the existing drum brake setup.

For variants that continue with drum brake technology, Hero has implemented comprehensive safety enhancements.

Both the front and rear of the Hero Splendor Plus boast a 130mm drum brake. The rear adds an extra safety layer with the Integrated Braking System (IBS), enhancing motorcycle safety by evenly distributing braking force between the front and rear wheels.

The IBS system works similarly to CBS technology found on more expensive motorcycles.

It has features like self-start, alloy wheels, and an integrated braking system (IBS). The IBS works similarly to the CBS, helping with the brake force on both wheels by depressing only one lever. This enhances the safety of the rider. This technology helps prevent wheel lockup during emergency braking while ensuring balanced deceleration that maintains stability.

Chassis and Suspension Engineering

The 2025 Splendor Plus maintains Hero’s proven chassis architecture while incorporating refinements that enhance both comfort and handling characteristics.

This Hero motorcycle sits on a tubular double cradle chassis that enhances handling. It rides on telescopic, hydraulic shock absorber suspension at the front that provides smooth handling.

The front suspension system provides adequate comfort for typical Indian road conditions while maintaining the responsiveness necessary for confident urban maneuvering.

The telescopic fork design offers superior performance compared to simpler suspension systems found on some competitors, contributing to the Splendor’s reputation for ride quality.

The rear suspension includes a swing arm with 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers. This adjustability allows riders to tune the suspension setup according to their weight, riding style, and typical load conditions.

The preload adjustment capability ensures optimal performance whether riding solo or carrying a pillion passenger and luggage.

This Splendor bike touches the ground with 18-inch wheels sporting 80mm wide tubeless tyres at the front and the rear.

The large wheel diameter provides excellent stability and confident handling while the tubeless tire technology reduces the risk of sudden deflation and simplifies puncture repairs. The tire dimensions offer an optimal balance between grip, comfort, and rolling resistance.

Variant Breakdown and Pricing Strategy

The ex-showroom Hero Splendor Plus price starts from ₹77176, and it rivals the Honda Shine 100 and the Bajaj CT 110. This pricing strategy positions the Splendor Plus competitively within the commuter segment while offering multiple variants to suit different budget requirements and feature preferences.

The pricing hierarchy reflects the value-added features available across different variants.

Higher-specification models include advanced features like alloy wheels, enhanced graphics packages, and premium color options, allowing buyers to choose configurations that match their specific requirements and budget constraints.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Performance

Environmental considerations and fuel efficiency remain cornerstone advantages of the Splendor Plus proposition.

Hero Splendor Plus claims a mileage of 60-80.6 kmpl. Real-world efficiency figures consistently demonstrate the motorcycle’s exceptional economy, making it one of the most cost-effective transportation solutions available in India.

The 9.8-liter fuel tank capacity provides excellent range despite the motorcycle’s compact dimensions.

It has a kerb weight is 112 kg and its fuel tank capacity is 9.8 litres. This combination ensures that riders can complete extensive daily commutes without frequent refueling stops, adding convenience to the impressive economy figures.

The integration of i3S technology and advanced fuel injection systems contributes significantly to the motorcycle’s environmental credentials.

The idle start-stop function alone can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10% in urban riding conditions, while the precise fuel injection ensures optimal combustion across varying operating conditions.

OBD2B compliance ensures that the 2025 Splendor Plus meets the latest emission standards without compromising performance or efficiency.

This regulatory compliance demonstrates Hero’s commitment to environmental responsibility while maintaining the practical advantages that make the Splendor attractive to cost-conscious buyers.

Competitive Analysis and Market Position

The commuter motorcycle segment in India features numerous capable competitors, each offering distinct advantages and value propositions.

Main Competitors of Splendor Plus bike are Hero Super Splendor Xtec, TVS Raider 125, Hero Passion Plus, Hero Super Splendor, Bajaj Platina 110, Honda Shine 100, Hero Splendor Plus Xtec, Hero Glamour, Honda Shine, Honda SP 125.

Against the Honda Shine 100, the Splendor Plus offers superior fuel efficiency and typically lower maintenance costs, though the Honda might provide certain refinement advantages. The TVS Radeon presents a value-focused alternative with modern features, but the Splendor’s proven reliability track record often proves decisive for practical buyers.

The Bajaj Platina 110 offers comparable efficiency with a larger engine, but the Splendor’s extensive service network and parts availability provide significant ownership advantages.

For perspective, the TVS Radeon, which is a 110cc commuter, is priced from Rs 59,880 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Bajaj Platina 100, which is more of a direct rival, is priced from Rs 68,890 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The Splendor’s competitive advantages extend beyond specifications to encompass ownership experience factors that significantly impact long-term satisfaction. Hero’s extensive dealer network, widespread parts availability, and competitive service costs create a comprehensive ownership ecosystem that competitors struggle to match.

Storage Solutions and Practical Utility

Practical considerations remain central to the Splendor Plus design philosophy, with thoughtful features that enhance daily usability.

The motorcycle includes practical storage solutions and carrying capacity that address real-world commuting requirements.

The single-seat design accommodates both solo riding and pillion passenger transport while maintaining the motorcycle’s lightweight characteristics.

The pillion grab bar provides security for passengers while the optional carrier attachment expands luggage carrying capability for users requiring additional storage capacity.

Ground clearance specifications ensure confident navigation over typical Indian road obstacles.

The height of the motorcycle is 1052mm, with a ground clearance of 165mm. This clearance figure provides adequate protection against road debris and surface irregularities while maintaining the low seat height that makes the motorcycle accessible to riders of varying statures.

The overall dimensions balance urban maneuverability with stability and presence. This Hero Splendor is 720mm wide and 2000mm long, with a wheelbase of 1236mm.

These proportions ensure confident handling in tight traffic situations while providing sufficient stability for highway riding and two-up touring.

Key Advantages of the 2025 Hero Splendor Plus

Performance and Efficiency Benefits:

• Outstanding fuel efficiency consistently delivering 60-70 kmpl in real-world conditions

• Proven 97.2cc engine with excellent low-end torque for city riding

• Advanced i3S technology providing up to 10% fuel savings in stop-and-go traffic

• Lightweight 112kg kerb weight for easy handling and maneuverability

Technology and Safety Enhancements:

• Introduction of front disc brake technology for enhanced stopping power

• Integrated Braking System (IBS) for balanced braking performance

• XSens fuel injection technology for optimized engine performance

• OBD2B compliance ensuring latest emission standards adherence

Ownership and Value Propositions:

• Extensive nationwide service network with affordable maintenance costs

• Easy availability of spare parts across urban and rural areas

• Strong resale value retention compared to segment competitors

• Multiple variant options catering to different budget requirements

Market Outlook and Future Prospects

The commuter motorcycle segment continues to form the foundation of India’s two-wheeler market, with consistent demand driven by urbanization, economic growth, and the need for affordable personal transportation.

The Splendor Plus’s comprehensive feature set and competitive positioning ensure its continued relevance in this essential market segment.

Future developments will likely focus on further technological integration while maintaining the core attributes that define the Splendor experience. Potential areas for enhancement include digital instrumentation expansion, connectivity features, and continued refinement of efficiency technologies.

The introduction of disc brake technology represents a significant step toward modernizing the Splendor family while preserving its accessibility and value proposition.

This balanced approach to innovation ensures that the motorcycle can continue serving diverse market segments without alienating traditional buyers who value simplicity and affordability.

Hero Splendor plus Final Assessment

The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus successfully evolves India’s most trusted commuter motorcycle while preserving the fundamental qualities that have made it a household name.

For buyers seeking reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation, the Splendor Plus continues to offer unmatched value within its segment.

The motorcycle’s enduring success reflects its ability to consistently deliver practical transportation solutions that meet the real-world needs of Indian riders.

Whether chosen for daily commuting, family transportation, or commercial applications, the 2025 Splendor Plus provides the dependability and efficiency that have made Hero India’s largest motorcycle manufacturer.

Despite facing increasing competition from feature-rich alternatives, the Splendor Plus’s combination of proven reliability, exceptional efficiency, comprehensive service support, and competitive pricing ensures its continued relevance in the Indian motorcycle market.

For riders prioritizing practical value over flashy features, the 2025 Hero Splendor Plus remains the definitive choice for dependable, economical transportation.