Hero Splendor 125cc : In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian motorcycling, few names carry the weight and recognition of Hero Splendor.
As the undisputed champion of the commuter segment for decades, the Splendor has become synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and value.
Now, Hero MotoCorp has taken a bold step forward with the introduction of the Splendor 125cc—an evolution that preserves the model’s legendary attributes while introducing meaningful enhancements in performance, design, and features.
Design Evolution: Modern Aesthetics with Familiar DNA
The new Splendor 125cc strikes an impressive balance between honoring its iconic heritage and embracing contemporary design sensibilities.
The silhouette remains instantly recognizable, maintaining the practical proportions that have made the Splendor accessible to riders of all sizes.
However, Hero’s designers have introduced sharper lines and more pronounced contours that lend the motorcycle a more assertive presence.
Available in five distinctive color schemes—Matte Black with red accents, Pearl White, Vibrant Blue, Bold Red, and a premium Nexus Gold—the Splendor 125cc offers personalization options that appeal to both traditional commuters and younger riders seeking more visual flair.
The headlamp assembly has been redesigned with an LED unit that provides improved visibility while contributing to the motorcycle’s modern aesthetic.
The tail lamp similarly receives LED treatment, enhancing both safety and style.
The instrument cluster combines an analog speedometer with a digital display for trip meters, fuel gauge, and service indicators—blending familiarity with practical modern features.
Chrome accents on the side panels and exhaust heat shield add touches of premium appeal without compromising the motorcycle’s utilitarian character.
The seat has been resculpted for improved comfort during extended rides, with a single-piece design that accommodates both rider and passenger with generous padding.
Engine Performance: Enhanced Power with Trademark Efficiency
At the heart of the Splendor 125cc lies an air-cooled, single-cylinder 125cc engine that represents a significant engineering achievement for Hero MotoCorp.
Building upon decades of experience with small-displacement motors, the company has created a powerplant that delivers a compelling 10.7 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 10.6 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM—representing approximately 30% more power than the standard Splendor without sacrificing the reliability that defines the brand.
Most remarkably, despite the increased displacement and power output, the Splendor 125cc maintains exceptional fuel efficiency with a claimed mileage of 68-72 kilometers per liter under standard testing conditions.
This achievement comes through careful optimization of the combustion chamber, advanced fuel injection technology, and reduced internal friction.
The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 5-speed gearbox that provides an additional gear compared to the standard Splendor, allowing for more relaxed cruising at highway speeds while maintaining optimal engine RPM.
The inclusion of Hero’s i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) further enhances fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine at traffic stops and restarting it with a simple clutch pull.
Chassis and Handling: Confidence-Inspiring Dynamics
The Splendor 125cc is built around a conventional yet refined tubular double-cradle frame that provides the perfect balance of rigidity and flex for urban commuting conditions.
The suspension setup comprises telescopic front forks with 120mm travel and 5-step adjustable twin rear shock absorbers offering 80mm travel, delivering a comfortable ride over varied road surfaces.
With a kerb weight of just 122 kilograms, the motorcycle remains nimble and manageable in crowded traffic conditions.
The wheelbase of 1,270mm provides stable straight-line behavior without compromising low-speed maneuverability—a crucial consideration for its primary urban environment.
Braking performance sees a significant upgrade with a 240mm front disc brake complemented by a 130mm rear drum, with integrated combi-braking system (CBS) for optimized brake force distribution between front and rear wheels.
This setup delivers confident stopping power while remaining accessible to riders of all experience levels.
The Splendor 125cc rides on 18-inch alloy wheels at both ends, shod with tubeless tires (80/100 front and 90/90 rear) that provide good grip across diverse road conditions while offering the convenience and safety benefits of tubeless technology.
Features and Convenience: Thoughtful Additions
Beyond the fundamental mechanical enhancements, Hero has incorporated several practical features that improve the ownership experience.
A USB charging port positioned near the instrument cluster allows for smartphone charging on the go—an increasingly essential feature for today’s connected riders.
The fuel tank capacity has been marginally increased to 11 liters, extending the theoretical range to over 750 kilometers between refills—a welcome advantage for riders in areas with limited fueling infrastructure or those who simply prefer less frequent stops.
Service intervals have been extended to 6,000 kilometers, reducing maintenance frequency and associated costs.
Hero’s extensive service network of over 6,000 touchpoints nationwide ensures support remains accessible regardless of location.
Hero Splendor 125cc Conclusion: Evolution of a Legend
The Hero Splendor 125cc represents a thoughtful evolution of India’s most iconic motorcycle.
By preserving the core attributes that have made the Splendor a household name—reliability, efficiency, and value—while introducing meaningful enhancements in power, design, and features, Hero MotoCorp has created a compelling option for both loyal Splendor customers looking to upgrade and new riders entering the commuter segment.
With its attractive blend of improved performance, exceptional efficiency, and competitive pricing starting at approximately ₹85,000 (ex-showroom), the Splendor 125cc seems poised to continue the remarkable legacy of its predecessor while appealing to a broader audience with more diverse needs and expectations.
In a market increasingly focused on premium offerings, the Splendor 125cc serves as a reminder that thoughtful engineering and clear understanding of customer priorities can create exceptional value without unnecessary complexity or cost—a philosophy that has defined the Splendor name for generations and continues with this latest iteration.
