Hero Splendor Plus : In a move that reinforces its iron grip on India’s commuter motorcycle segment, Hero MotoCorp has launched an extensively updated version of its bestselling Splendor Plus.

The motorcycle, which has consistently ranked as India’s highest-selling two-wheeler for over two decades, returns with meaningful upgrades while maintaining the core attributes that have earned it an unshakeable reputation among everyday riders.

Hero Splendor Plus Building on a Legendary Foundation

The Splendor name has become virtually synonymous with reliable, efficient commuting in India, with cumulative sales exceeding 35 million units since its introduction.

The latest iteration builds upon this storied legacy while acknowledging evolving consumer expectations in the entry-level segment.

“We recognize that today’s commuter expects more than just basic transportation,” explains Rajiv Bajaj, Head of Marketing at Hero MotoCorp.

“While maintaining the Splendor’s core DNA of exceptional reliability and efficiency, we’ve incorporated features that enhance comfort, convenience, and overall ownership experience.”

Hero Splendor Plus Refined Powertrain Delivers Class-Leading Efficiency

At the heart of the updated Splendor Plus beats Hero’s refined 97.2cc single-cylinder engine, now upgraded to meet BS-VI Phase 2 emission norms.

The air-cooled unit produces a modest 8.02 horsepower at 8,000 RPM and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM – figures that prioritize fuel efficiency and smoothness over outright performance.

The engine incorporates Hero’s i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology as standard across all variants, automatically cutting the engine when idling for more than 5 seconds and seamlessly restarting when the clutch is engaged.

This feature, previously reserved for higher-spec variants, contributes to the motorcycle’s remarkable fuel efficiency.

In real-world testing conducted across various riding conditions, the updated Splendor Plus consistently achieved between 68-75 kilometers per liter – figures that firmly establish it as the segment benchmark for efficiency.

For the average commuter covering 40-50 kilometers daily, this translates to refueling intervals that can extend beyond two weeks.

Deepak Sharma, a 42-year-old courier delivery person from Lucknow who participated in Hero’s customer testing program, shares: “I’ve ridden various commuter motorcycles over 15 years, but nothing matches the Splendor’s mileage.

With current fuel prices, the difference in monthly expenses is significant – I’m saving nearly 1,200 rupees monthly compared to my previous motorcycle.”

Hero Splendor Plus Thoughtful Features Enhance Daily Usability

Where the updated Splendor Plus truly distinguishes itself is the incorporation of features previously uncommon in the segment. Standard equipment now includes:

• Digital-analog instrument cluster displaying real-time fuel efficiency

• USB charging port integrated below the speedometer

• LED headlamp with automatic headlamp on (AHO) function

• Combi-braking system with integrated front and rear brake operation

• Longer, wider seat with improved cushioning for two-up comfort

• Tubeless tires across all variants, minimizing puncture-related hassles

Higher-spec variants add further conveniences, including:

• Remote key fob with find-my-bike function

• Side-stand engine cut-off

• Mobile connectivity through Hero’s XTEC system

• Gloss paint options with new graphic schemes

Hero Splendor Plus Focus on Long-term Reliability

Hero has made substantial improvements to key components that impact long-term ownership costs. The transmission receives upgraded shift forks and selector mechanism, addressing one of the few criticisms leveled at previous generations.

The electrical system now features improved waterproofing, while the exhaust system utilizes corrosion-resistant materials that maintain compliance with stringent emission norms while extending service life.

“We’ve subjected the updated Splendor Plus to over 200,000 kilometers of accelerated durability testing,” notes Rahul Verma, Head of Product Development at Hero MotoCorp.

“Our testing regimen includes everything from extreme temperature variation to intentionally poor fuel quality and overloading – conditions that mirror the most challenging real-world usage scenarios.”

Hero Splendor Plus Pricing Strategy Maintains Accessibility

Despite the significant upgrades, Hero has managed a pricing strategy that keeps the Splendor Plus accessible to its core customer base.

The range starts at ₹72,956 for the drum brake variant, extending to ₹77,430 for the fully-loaded XTEC model (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).

This positioning ensures the Splendor Plus maintains a price advantage against its primary competitors, including the Honda CD 110 Dream, Bajaj Platina, and TVS Radeon.

Hero further enhances the value proposition with an industry-leading 5-year warranty as standard across all variants.

Hero Splendor Plus Market Outlook

Industry analysts expect the updated Splendor Plus to further consolidate Hero’s dominant position in the commuter segment, which accounts for approximately 65% of India’s motorcycle market by volume.

“In challenging economic conditions, the Splendor’s value proposition becomes even more compelling,” observes Priya Kapoor, Senior Analyst at AutoInsight India.

“The combination of class-leading efficiency, enhanced features, and Hero’s extensive service network creates significant barriers for competitors attempting to dislodge it from its position.”

With production ramping up across Hero’s manufacturing facilities, the company expects to deliver 150,000 units monthly by Q3, with waiting periods currently extending to 3-4 weeks in major markets.

For India’s vast population of everyday commuters, the updated Splendor Plus reaffirms its status as the default choice in accessible, efficient transportation.