The Hero Splendor Plus stands as an enduring testament to practical motorcycle engineering, representing decades of refinement in the commuter segment that has literally put millions of Indians on two wheels.
Since its inception as the Hero Honda Splendor in 1994, this motorcycle has evolved into one of the most successful and trusted models in Indian automotive history, consistently ranking among the highest-selling motorcycles not just in India but globally.
The 2025 iteration continues this legacy with enhanced features, improved efficiency, and modern compliance standards while maintaining the core attributes that have made it a household name.
Legacy and Market Position
The Splendor Plus traces its lineage back to the original Hero Honda collaboration that revolutionized India’s two-wheeler market.
Starting as a successor to the CD100 and Sleek models, the Splendor quickly established itself as the definitive choice for first-time motorcycle buyers, rural transportation needs, and urban commuting requirements.
Its success story spans over three decades, during which it has consistently adapted to changing market demands while preserving the fundamental qualities of reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
The motorcycle’s market dominance is reflected in impressive sales figures, with Hero MotoCorp selling over 185,000 units in April 2025 alone, though this represents seasonal variation from previous months’ higher numbers.
This sustained popularity demonstrates the Splendor Plus’s continued relevance in an increasingly competitive market filled with newer technologies and alternative transportation options.
Cultural Impact and Social Significance
Beyond mere transportation, the Splendor Plus has become deeply embedded in Indian culture, serving as the stepping stone for countless families transitioning from bicycles or public transportation to personal mobility.
Its role in rural and semi-urban areas cannot be overstated, where it often serves as the primary means of transport for entire families, carrying passengers, goods, and serving commercial purposes.
The motorcycle’s reputation for reliability has made it a preferred choice for small business owners, delivery services, and daily wage earners who depend on consistent transportation for their livelihoods.
This practical utility has contributed significantly to its enduring market presence and brand loyalty across generations of users.
Technical Specifications and Engineering
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus is powered by a time-tested 97.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that exemplifies the balance between performance and efficiency.
This BS6-compliant engine produces 7.91 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, providing adequate power for city commuting while prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Engine Technology and Performance
The engine incorporates Hero’s XSens technology, featuring ten sensors that continuously analyze riding conditions to optimize the air-fuel mixture for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
This sophisticated system represents a significant technological advancement over earlier generations while maintaining the simplicity and reliability that users expect from the Splendor platform.
The four-speed manual gearbox provides smooth power delivery suited to varied riding conditions, from stop-and-go city traffic to highway cruising.
The gearing ratios are carefully calibrated to maximize fuel efficiency while ensuring adequate acceleration for overtaking and merging in traffic.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Splendor Plus delivers exceptional fuel efficiency, with real-world testing showing impressive results of 83.2 kmpl in city conditions and 95.8 kmpl on highways.
User-reported averages consistently fall in the 60-70 kmpl range, making it one of the most economical motorcycles available in the Indian market. The 9.8-liter fuel tank provides substantial range, allowing for extended periods between refueling stops.
This exceptional efficiency stems from the engine’s optimized combustion characteristics, lightweight construction, and aerodynamic design that minimizes drag while maintaining practical functionality.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetics
The 2025 Splendor Plus maintains the classic design language that has made it instantly recognizable across India. The rectangular headlamp, minimalist bodywork, and clean lines reflect a timeless aesthetic that prioritizes functionality over flashy styling elements.
Visual Identity and Styling
The front end features a rectangular halogen headlamp with integrated turn indicators, creating a simple yet purposeful appearance.
The slim fuel tank design incorporates graphics and model badging that add visual interest without overwhelming the overall clean aesthetic.
The side profile showcases practical elements like the sturdy metallic leg guard and streamlined body panels.
The single-seat design with a pillion grab rail emphasizes the motorcycle’s practical nature, while the small rear carrier provides additional utility for everyday transportation needs.
The cone-shaped exhaust pipe with metallic cover adds a subtle design element while serving functional requirements.
Color Options and Personalization
Hero offers the Splendor Plus in multiple color schemes designed to appeal to diverse preferences.
Options include Blue Black, Black Red Purple, Sports Red Black, Force Silver, Black Grey Stripe, and Matt Grey, with some variants offering additional color combinations like Black and Accent editions.
These color options allow buyers to express personal preferences while maintaining the motorcycle’s understated character.
The Black Red Purple combination represents the most popular choice, echoing the classic Splendor color scheme that has become iconic in the Indian motorcycle landscape.
Variant Lineup and Feature Distribution
The 2025 Splendor Plus range includes multiple variants designed to cater to different budget levels and feature requirements.
The lineup spans from basic drum brake models to enhanced variants with i3S technology and premium features.
Standard and i3S Variants
The base Splendor Plus Drum Brake variant, starting at Rs. 74,932, provides essential features including electric start, alloy wheels, and integrated braking system.
The i3S variants incorporate Hero’s Idle Stop-Start technology, which automatically shuts off the engine during idle periods to conserve fuel and reduce emissions.
The i3S system proves particularly beneficial in urban traffic conditions, where frequent stops and starts can significantly impact fuel consumption.
The technology seamlessly restarts the engine when the clutch is engaged, providing convenience without compromising performance.
Premium Xtec Series
The Splendor Plus Xtec represents the premium end of the range, featuring a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging capability, and enhanced styling elements.
Priced at Rs. 80,750 for the drum brake version and Rs. 83,888 for the disc brake variant, the Xtec offers features typically associated with higher-segment motorcycles.
The digital instrument cluster provides real-time mileage information, call and SMS alerts, and comprehensive trip data, representing a significant advancement in connectivity and user information access for the commuter segment.
Ride Quality and Practical Performance
The Splendor Plus prioritizes comfort and ease of use over sporting performance, reflecting its positioning as a practical commuter motorcycle.
The upright riding position, well-cushioned seat, and relaxed ergonomics contribute to rider comfort during both short urban commutes and longer intercity journeys.
Handling and Dynamics
The tubular double cradle chassis provides stable handling characteristics suited to Indian road conditions. The 18-inch wheels with 80mm-wide tubeless tires offer adequate grip and stability while maintaining low rolling resistance for optimal fuel efficiency.
The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and rear swingarm with five-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers. While tuned toward the firmer side, this configuration provides adequate comfort for typical riding conditions while ensuring durability under varied load conditions.
Braking and Safety Systems
The standard braking setup features 130mm front and 110mm rear drum brakes with an Integrated Braking System (IBS) that distributes braking force between both wheels when either brake lever is applied.
This system enhances safety by reducing stopping distances and improving stability during emergency braking situations.
Higher variants offer front disc brake options for improved braking performance, particularly beneficial for riders who frequently encounter demanding traffic conditions or carry heavy loads.
Ownership Experience and Service Support
Hero MotoCorp’s extensive service network across India provides comprehensive support for Splendor Plus owners, with service centers available in remote rural areas as well as major urban centers.
This widespread service availability contributes significantly to the motorcycle’s appeal, particularly for buyers in smaller towns and rural areas.
Maintenance and Reliability
The Splendor Plus is renowned for its low maintenance requirements and robust construction that withstands challenging operating conditions.
Regular service intervals and readily available spare parts ensure minimal ownership hassles and reasonable operating costs.
The air-cooled engine design eliminates coolant-related maintenance issues while providing adequate performance for intended applications.
Simple mechanical systems reduce complexity and potential failure points, contributing to the motorcycle’s reputation for reliability.
Cost of Ownership
Beyond the attractive purchase price, the Splendor Plus offers excellent value through low fuel consumption, minimal maintenance requirements, and strong resale value retention. Insurance costs remain reasonable due to the motorcycle’s commuter classification and safety record.
The combination of efficient fuel consumption, reliable operation, and affordable maintenance makes the total cost of ownership highly competitive within the commuter motorcycle segment.
Market Competition and Positioning
The Splendor Plus competes in a crowded commuter motorcycle segment against models like the Honda Shine 100, Bajaj CT 110, and TVS Star City Plus.
Its primary advantages include brand reputation, service network coverage, and proven reliability record accumulated over decades of market presence.
Competitive Advantages
The motorcycle’s established market position provides advantages in terms of brand recognition, resale value, and buyer confidence.
The extensive service network and parts availability offer practical benefits that newer competitors struggle to match, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Hero Splendor Plus sporty look Loots the hearts of Girls
Hero MotoCorp continues evolving the Splendor Plus platform to meet changing regulatory requirements and customer expectations.
Recent updates include OBD-2B compliance for emission monitoring and enhanced feature content in premium variants.
The introduction of connected features through the Xtec variants demonstrates Hero’s commitment to modernizing the platform while preserving its core appeal.
Future developments may include further digitization, enhanced safety features, and potential alternative fuel options while maintaining the fundamental characteristics that have made the Splendor Plus successful.
The Hero Splendor Plus represents more than just a motorcycle; it embodies the democratization of personal mobility in India, serving as a reliable companion for millions of users across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Its continued success reflects the enduring value of practical engineering, proven reliability, and deep understanding of customer needs in the world’s largest motorcycle market.
