The Hero Splendor has earned its place as one of India’s most popular and trusted commuter motorcycles. Known for its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs, the Splendor has been the go-to choice for millions of riders over the years. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a daily commuter, the Hero Splendor offers everything you need in an affordable and dependable package.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Hero Splendor’s design, performance, fuel efficiency, features, and why it continues to be a top choice in the commuter bike category.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. Classic Design and Build Quality
- 2 2. Performance and Engine Specifications
- 3 3. Riding Comfort and Handling
- 4 4. Fuel Efficiency: One of the Best in Its Class
- 5 5. Essential Features and Safety
- 6 6. Variants and Color Options
- 7 7. Why the Hero Splendor is a Top Choice
- 8 8. Conclusion: The Perfect Commuter Companion
1. Classic Design and Build Quality
The Hero Splendor is designed with practicality and durability in mind. While it may not boast the sporty or aggressive styling of higher-end motorcycles, the Splendor’s design is clean, timeless, and functional.
a) Simple and Classic Look
The Hero Splendor features a straightforward design that appeals to a wide range of riders. It has a minimalist look with clean lines, a standard round headlamp, and a comfortable, upright seating position. The paint schemes and graphics are tasteful, giving the bike a modern look without overwhelming the classic aesthetic.
b) Sturdy Build Quality
The Splendor is built to last, with a rugged frame and quality materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. Its strong chassis and sturdy components ensure that it performs well even on rough or unpaved roads, making it suitable for both city and rural environments. The fit and finish are impressive for a bike in this price range, and its build quality makes it a dependable choice for long-term ownership.
2. Performance and Engine Specifications
The Hero Splendor is powered by a reliable and efficient engine, designed to provide a smooth and hassle-free riding experience, especially in urban settings.
a) Powerful and Fuel-Efficient Engine
The Splendor features a 97.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that delivers around 8 PS of power at 8,000 RPM and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM. While these numbers may not seem high compared to sportier bikes, they are more than sufficient for city commuting. The engine is tuned for low-end torque, making it ideal for frequent stop-and-go traffic conditions.
b) i3S Technology for Improved Efficiency
One of the standout features of the Hero Splendor is its i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology. This system automatically turns off the engine when idling for a few seconds and restarts it as soon as you engage the clutch. This feature helps improve fuel efficiency, especially in congested traffic, where frequent stopping and starting is required. The i3S system is a thoughtful addition, helping riders save fuel and reduce emissions.
c) Smooth Transmission
The Splendor comes with a 4-speed gearbox that offers smooth gear shifts and is easy to handle, even for beginners. The gear ratios are well-suited for city riding, providing good acceleration and control in lower gears while cruising comfortably in higher gears.
3. Riding Comfort and Handling
The Hero Splendor is known for its comfortable riding position and easy handling, making it ideal for daily commuting.
a) Comfortable Seat and Ergonomics
The Splendor’s seat is wide and well-cushioned, providing ample comfort for both the rider and the pillion. The upright riding position and well-placed handlebars make for an ergonomic setup that reduces strain on the back and shoulders, even on longer rides. This comfort is particularly valuable for commuters who spend a significant amount of time in the saddle each day.
b) Lightweight and Easy to Handle
Weighing around 110 kg, the Hero Splendor is a lightweight bike that is easy to maneuver in traffic. Its compact size and light frame make it perfect for narrow city streets, allowing riders to navigate through traffic with ease. The bike’s turning radius is also small, making it easy to make tight turns and park in crowded areas.
c) Suspension Setup for Smooth Rides
The Splendor is equipped with telescopic forks at the front and hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear, providing a balanced suspension setup that handles city roads comfortably. While it may not be suited for extreme off-roading, the suspension is effective at absorbing minor bumps and potholes, making everyday commutes more comfortable.
4. Fuel Efficiency: One of the Best in Its Class
The Hero Splendor is synonymous with fuel efficiency, which is one of the reasons it remains a popular choice among budget-conscious riders.
a) Impressive Mileage
The Splendor delivers an outstanding mileage of around 60-70 km/l, depending on riding conditions and maintenance. This excellent fuel economy makes it one of the most cost-effective options in the 100cc segment, allowing riders to save significantly on fuel costs. For daily commuters who cover long distances, this mileage is a major advantage, making the Splendor a truly economical option.
b) Low Running Costs
In addition to its fuel efficiency, the Hero Splendor is known for its low maintenance and running costs. Parts are affordable and readily available, and Hero’s extensive service network ensures that maintenance and repairs are easy to manage. The bike’s durability and low running costs make it a wise investment for riders looking for a dependable and budget-friendly ride.
5. Essential Features and Safety
While the Hero Splendor focuses on the essentials, it comes equipped with several features that enhance convenience and safety for everyday use.
a) Analog Instrument Cluster
The Splendor’s instrument cluster is basic yet functional, providing key information such as speed, fuel level, and odometer readings. While it lacks some of the digital displays found on newer bikes, the analog setup is simple and easy to read, especially for riders who prefer a no-frills approach.
b) Alloy Wheels and Tubeless Tyres
The Hero Splendor comes with alloy wheels, which not only improve the bike’s appearance but also reduce weight and increase durability. Tubeless tyres are another practical addition, as they reduce the risk of sudden air loss in case of a puncture, enhancing safety for riders on the go.
c) Drum Brakes with Optional IBS
The Splendor is equipped with drum brakes on both wheels, offering sufficient braking power for city rides. Some variants also come with Integrated Braking System (IBS), which improves braking performance by distributing brake force to both wheels, reducing stopping distance and increasing safety.
6. Variants and Color Options
The Hero Splendor is available in several variants and a range of color options, allowing riders to choose a model that best suits their preferences and needs.
a) Popular Variants
Some of the popular variants of the Splendor include the Splendor Plus, Splendor iSmart, and Splendor Pro. Each variant offers slightly different features, allowing riders to select a model based on their specific needs, whether it’s improved fuel efficiency, advanced features, or a simple, no-nonsense design.
b) Color Choices
The Splendor is available in various color schemes, including black, red, silver, blue, and a combination of these shades. These color options add a personal touch, allowing riders to select a bike that matches their style.
7. Why the Hero Splendor is a Top Choice
The Hero Splendor has established itself as one of India’s best-selling motorcycles for several reasons:
- Fuel Efficiency: With its remarkable mileage, the Splendor is an economical option for daily commuting.
- Durability: Built to last, the Splendor can handle rough roads and daily wear, making it a dependable long-term investment.
- Low Maintenance: Affordable parts, an extensive service network, and low running costs make it a budget-friendly choice.
- Comfortable Riding Experience: With its ergonomic design, lightweight build, and easy handling, the Splendor is comfortable to ride in various conditions.
- Trusted Brand: Hero’s reputation for quality and reliability adds to the Splendor’s appeal, providing riders with confidence in their purchase.
8. Conclusion: The Perfect Commuter Companion
The Hero Splendor is a classic example of a reliable, efficient, and affordable commuter bike. Its simple design, fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and dependable performance have made it the preferred choice for millions of riders in India. Whether you need a bike for daily commuting, short errands, or longer journeys, the Hero Splendor offers everything you need in a value-for-money package.
In a market filled with various options, the Hero Splendor stands out as an unbeatable choice for anyone seeking a practical, durable, and cost-effective ride. With its legacy of reliability and trust, the Hero Splendor continues to be a timeless companion for India’s roads.