New Hero Splendor Plus: In the vast landscape of India’s two-wheeler market, few motorcycles have achieved the iconic status and unwavering loyalty that the Hero Splendor Plus commands.
For nearly three decades, this humble commuter has been the backbone of Indian mobility, silently ferrying millions across the country’s diverse terrain.
The 2025 iteration of the Hero Splendor Plus continues this legacy while embracing modern innovations that cater to evolving consumer expectations.
This remarkable journey of consistent excellence makes the Splendor not just a motorcycle but a cultural phenomenon that has transcended generations.
New Hero Splendor Plus The Evolution of an Icon
The Hero Splendor’s story began in 1994 as the Hero Honda Splendor, emerging as a successor to the CD100 and Sleek models. What started as a basic utilitarian two-wheeler gradually evolved into a diverse family spanning multiple engine capacities while maintaining its core ethos of reliability and efficiency.
The transition from Hero Honda to Hero MotoCorp in 2011 marked a pivotal moment, as the company had to develop its proprietary technology without Honda’s support.
This challenge became an opportunity for innovation, leading to the development of indigenous technologies like i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) that enhanced the Splendor’s already impressive fuel efficiency.
The newest 2025 model represents the culmination of this evolutionary journey, featuring OBD2B compliance that meets the latest emission standards while preserving the motorcycle’s celebrated characteristics.
What makes the Splendor’s evolution particularly noteworthy is how it has maintained its essential DNA while adapting to changing times.
Unlike many products that undergo radical redesigns to stay relevant, the Splendor has opted for incremental improvements that respect its heritage while embracing necessary modernization. This careful balance has allowed it to retain loyal customers while attracting new ones who value its proven reliability.
Design Philosophy: Familiar yet Fresh
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus maintains its recognizable silhouette with thoughtful refinements that keep it looking contemporary without alienating its core audience. The design philosophy emphasizes clean lines, balanced proportions, and functional aesthetics that prioritize rider comfort and ease of use.
From the front, the rectangular headlamp assembly with standard halogen bulbs provides a familiar face that countless Indians associate with trustworthiness.
The simple yet effective instrument cluster houses an analog speedometer and fuel gauge, delivering essential information without unnecessary complexity. Higher variants like the XTEC models incorporate digital elements and modern features while maintaining the overall design language.
The slim fuel tank, with a capacity of 9.8 liters, features refreshed graphics that add visual interest without becoming excessive. The side panels prominently display the Splendor badging, serving as a badge of pride for owners.
The long single-piece seat prioritizes comfort for both rider and pillion, with adequate padding that strikes a balance between softness for short rides and support for longer journeys.
At the rear, the motorcycle features a conventional taillight setup flanked by turn indicators. The metal grab rail not only provides security for the pillion but also offers practical utility for securing luggage—a thoughtful detail that acknowledges how these motorcycles are actually used in real-world scenarios.
Available in a diverse palette including Black Grey Stripe, Force Silver, Sports Red Black, Black Red Purple, Blue Black, Black and Accent, and Matte Grey, the 2025 Splendor Plus offers enough personalization options to cater to different tastes while maintaining its dignified appearance.
Performance Dynamics: Efficient Reliability
At the heart of the 2025 Splendor Plus beats a 97.2cc air-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine that epitomizes the “less is more” philosophy.
This powerplant has been continuously refined over the years and now incorporates Hero’s XSens Programmed Fuel Injection technology, which optimizes fuel delivery based on multiple sensor inputs.
The engine produces a modest 7.91 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm—figures that may seem unassuming on paper but translate to perfectly adequate performance in real-world conditions.
Paired with a smooth-shifting four-speed gearbox, the powertrain delivers linear acceleration and maintains comfortable cruising speeds between 50-60 km/h, which is ideal for its intended urban and rural use cases.
What truly distinguishes this engine isn’t outright power but its exceptional refinement and durability. Vibrations are well-controlled throughout the rev range, and the engine’s longevity is legendary, with many units surpassing 100,000 kilometers with only basic maintenance. This reliability factor can’t be overstated in a country where service infrastructure can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas.
The i3S technology, available on select variants, further enhances the Splendor’s efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when idling for more than 10 seconds (such as at traffic lights) and seamlessly restarting it when the clutch is engaged.
This simple yet effective system can improve fuel economy by up to 10% in stop-and-go traffic conditions—a significant benefit for daily commuters in congested cities.
Ride Quality and Handling: Practical Comfort
The 2025 Splendor Plus is built around a tubular double cradle frame that provides adequate rigidity without excessive weight. With a kerb weight of just 112 kg, the motorcycle feels nimble and easy to maneuver through crowded streets and narrow lanes—environments where its primary audience operates daily.
Suspension duties are handled by conventional telescopic forks at the front and 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. This setup prioritizes comfort over sportiness, effectively absorbing most road imperfections without transmitting excessive harshness to the rider.
The adjustability of the rear suspension is a thoughtful feature that allows customization based on rider weight, pillion presence, or load carrying—enhancing versatility for different usage scenarios.
The 18-inch alloy wheels with 80/100 tubeless tires provide adequate grip on various surfaces while offering the security and convenience of tubeless technology—a significant upgrade from the wire-spoke wheels of earlier generations. These larger diameter wheels also help navigate rough terrain with greater ease than smaller alternatives.
Braking performance comes from 130mm drum brakes at both ends, supplemented by Hero’s Integrated Braking System (IBS) that distributes braking force between front and rear wheels even when only one brake is applied.
While not as sophisticated as disc brake setups found on more premium offerings, this system provides adequate stopping power for the motorcycle’s weight and performance capabilities.
The ergonomics exemplify the Splendor’s user-friendly nature, with a natural upright seating position that reduces fatigue during extended rides. The 785mm seat height accommodates riders of various statures, while the comfortable reach to the handlebars and footpegs creates a relaxed riding triangle that’s ideally suited for daily commuting.
Technology Integration: Practical Innovations
While the base variants of the Splendor Plus maintain a minimalist approach to technology, the 2025 lineup—particularly the XTEC variants—incorporates modern features that enhance convenience without compromising the motorcycle’s fundamental simplicity and reliability.
The XTEC models feature a semi-digital instrument cluster with an analog speedometer accompanied by a digital display that shows trip meters, odometer, and real-time fuel efficiency.
This blend of traditional and modern elements perfectly embodies the Splendor’s evolution—respecting tradition while embracing helpful innovations.
Higher-end variants also incorporate LED lighting elements that improve visibility while reducing power consumption.
The i3S technology represents one of the Splendor’s most significant technological advances, improving efficiency through an intelligent start-stop system that’s particularly beneficial in urban traffic conditions.
The OBD2B compliance in the 2025 models brings advanced diagnostics capabilities that allow for more precise maintenance and troubleshooting.
This not only helps meet stringent emission norms but also potentially reduces long-term maintenance costs by enabling earlier detection of potential issues.
All these technological enhancements have been implemented with careful consideration of the Splendor’s core audience—people who value practical utility over flashy gadgetry.
The technology serves to enhance the ownership experience rather than becoming an end in itself, maintaining the motorcycle’s accessibility and ease of use.
Variants and Pricing: Options for Every Need
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus is available in multiple variants to cater to different budget constraints and feature preferences:
| Variant | Key Features | Ex-Showroom Price (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Splendor Plus Drum Brake | Basic variant with alloy wheels and self-start | 75,441 |
| Splendor Plus Drum Brake – OBD 2B | OBD2B compliant engine, alloy wheels, self-start | 78,915 |
| Splendor Plus i3S Drum Brake | i3S technology, alloy wheels, self-start | 76,451 |
| Splendor Plus i3S Drum Brake – OBD 2B | i3S technology, OBD2B compliance, alloy wheels | 80,156 |
| Splendor Plus Black & Accent i3S | Distinctive black color scheme with accent graphics, i3S | 76,161 |
| Splendor Plus Black & Accent i3S – OBD 2B | Black color scheme, i3S, OBD2B compliance | 80,156 |
| Splendor Plus XTEC 2.0 (non-OBD-2B) | Digital-analog cluster, LED headlamp, USB charging | 83,751 |
This tiered approach allows buyers to select the variant that best aligns with their requirements and budget. The price difference between the base variant and top-end XTEC model is significant enough to offer meaningful feature upgrades while remaining within reach of the target demographic.
When comparing value propositions across variants, the i3S models typically offer the best balance between price and features, with the fuel-saving technology potentially paying for itself over time through improved efficiency.
The XTEC variants appeal to more tech-savvy buyers who desire modern conveniences without abandoning the Splendor’s proven reliability.
Efficiency and Economy: The Splendor’s Defining Virtue
Perhaps no aspect of the Splendor Plus is more celebrated than its extraordinary fuel efficiency.
The 2025 model continues this tradition with ARAI-claimed figures ranging from 70-80 kmpl depending on the variant. Real-world efficiency typically settles between 60-70 kmpl in mixed riding conditions—numbers that remain benchmark-setting in the segment.
This exceptional efficiency translates to a theoretical range of over 600 kilometers from the 9.8-liter fuel tank, minimizing refueling stops and reducing the operating cost per kilometer.
For many buyers, especially those in rural and semi-urban areas where the motorcycle serves as the primary family vehicle, this economic efficiency is the single most important purchase consideration.
Beyond fuel economy, the Splendor Plus offers outstanding value through its low maintenance requirements and exceptional durability. Service intervals are set at every 3,000 kilometers or three months, whichever comes first, with routine maintenance procedures being straightforward enough for even modestly equipped workshops to handle effectively.
Spare parts availability is extensive across India, thanks to Hero’s massive distribution network, and their pricing remains reasonable even after decades in the market.
This comprehensive economic advantage—combining purchase price, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and resale value—creates a compelling total cost of ownership that few competitors can match.
Real-world Ownership Experience: Beyond Specifications
Speaking with Splendor owners reveals consistent themes that highlight why this motorcycle continues to dominate sales charts year after year.
Many praise its “set it and forget it” reliability, with numerous accounts of units covering over 100,000 kilometers with only routine maintenance. This dependability is particularly valued in areas where mechanical failures could leave riders stranded in potentially difficult situations.
The motorcycle’s approachable nature makes it ideal for first-time riders, with the lightweight chassis, predictable power delivery, and straightforward controls creating a forgiving learning platform. This characteristic has established the Splendor as the default “first motorcycle” for countless Indians beginning their two-wheeler journey.
Long-term owners frequently mention the extensive service network as a major advantage, with Hero’s 6,000+ touchpoints across India ensuring that assistance is never too far away. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially for those who depend on their motorcycles for daily livelihood.
Many rural users appreciate the Splendor’s versatility and load-carrying capability, often using it to transport small agricultural produce, supplies, or even family members (sometimes exceeding the recommended capacity—a common sight in rural India). The motorcycle’s robust construction handles these demanding conditions admirably, further cementing its reputation as a dependable workhorse.
Urban commuters value different aspects, particularly the slim profile that facilitates lane filtering in congested traffic and the excellent fuel economy that reduces operating costs.
The comfortable ergonomics and reliable starting (even in extreme weather conditions) ensure consistent daily usability that minimizes disruptions to work schedules.
Market Position and Competition: Defending the Crown
The Splendor Plus continues to dominate the commuter segment, consistently ranking among India’s best-selling two-wheelers with monthly sales regularly exceeding 200,000 units. This enduring popularity speaks volumes about the motorcycle’s alignment with market needs and consumer preferences.
Primary competitors include:
Bajaj Platina 110: Offers similar efficiency with slightly higher displacement at a competitive price point
TVS Star City Plus: Features more modern styling and slightly sportier handling characteristics
Honda Shine 100: Leverages Honda’s reputation for refinement in a similarly positioned package
Hero HF Deluxe: Hero’s own entry-level alternative that sacrifices some features for a lower price
Against these rivals, the Splendor Plus maintains distinct advantages through its proven reliability record, exceptional fuel efficiency, and massive service network.
While competitors may offer incremental improvements in specific areas, none has managed to create the comprehensive package that has made the Splendor an institution in Indian motorcycling.
Perhaps the most significant threat comes from within Hero’s own stable, with the Splendor Plus XTEC and Super Splendor models potentially cannibalizing sales from the standard Splendor Plus.
However, this strategy of offering multiple variants at different price points has allowed Hero to effectively cover multiple segments while keeping customers within the brand family.
Environmental and Social Impact: Beyond Transportation
The Splendor Plus has played a significant role in India’s mobility revolution, providing affordable and efficient transportation that has enhanced economic opportunities for millions.
In many rural households, acquiring a Splendor represents a significant step up in socioeconomic status and practical capability, enabling greater access to education, healthcare, and employment.
From an environmental perspective, the motorcycle’s exceptional fuel efficiency and increasingly stringent emission compliance help minimize its carbon footprint—particularly important in a country grappling with air quality challenges.
While not a zero-emission vehicle, the Splendor Plus represents a practical intermediate solution within the constraints of current infrastructure and economic realities.
The motorcycle’s influence extends into popular culture, where it has become a symbol of pragmatic aspiration and reliability. Numerous films, advertisements, and cultural references feature the Splendor as a representation of middle-class mobility and progress.
This cultural integration has transcended the motorcycle’s utilitarian purpose, elevating it to an icon that represents a particular moment in India’s developmental journey.
Looking Forward: Sustaining a Legacy
As the automotive landscape evolves toward electrification and increased connectivity, the future of the Splendor Plus presents both challenges and opportunities.
Hero MotoCorp has already demonstrated its commitment to modernizing the platform through the XTEC variants, suggesting a pathway for continued evolution without abandoning the core attributes that have made the motorcycle successful.
The potential introduction of a fully electric Splendor variant seems inevitable given global trends, though careful consideration will be needed to maintain the affordability and practical range that current users depend on.
Hero’s development of swappable battery technology could provide a solution that addresses charging infrastructure limitations while preserving the motorcycle’s economic advantages.
Connected features will likely expand across the lineup, with capabilities currently reserved for premium variants gradually becoming standard as technology costs decrease.
These enhancements could include location tracking, service reminders, and usage statistics—features that add value without compromising simplicity.
Whatever form these evolutions take, the essence of the Splendor—reliability, efficiency, and accessibility—must remain intact. The motorcycle’s enduring success stems from its alignment with fundamental transportation needs rather than fleeting trends, a principle that should continue guiding its development.
New Hero Splendor Plus Conclusion: The People’s Motorcycle
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus stands as a testament to the power of consistent excellence and purpose-driven design. In an era where planned obsolescence and feature overload often dominate product development, the Splendor’s focus on core functionality and long-term reliability represents a refreshingly honest approach to transportation.
What makes this motorcycle truly special isn’t cutting-edge technology or breathtaking performance—it’s the quiet dependability that has earned the trust of millions who rely on it daily.
The Splendor Plus isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s an enabler of livelihoods, a facilitator of education, healthcare access, and commerce across India’s vast and diverse landscape.
For potential buyers considering the 2025 model, the value proposition remains as compelling as ever: proven reliability, exceptional efficiency, extensive service support, and strong resale value—all at an accessible price point.
These fundamental advantages continue to resonate with practical-minded consumers who prioritize total ownership experience over fleeting novelty.
As India continues its economic and mobility evolution, the Hero Splendor Plus seems poised to maintain its relevance by balancing tradition with necessary modernization. In doing so, it remains true to its identity as “the people’s motorcycle”—a trusted companion for the journey ahead, whatever that journey may entail.