For over 30 years, the Hero Splendor has been the trusted companion of Indian commuters. From its beginning in 1994 to today, this motorcycle has earned its reputation as India’s best-selling bike by offering what riders need most: excellent fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and reliable performance.
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus continues this tradition while adding stylish updates and smart features that make daily riding even better. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this motorcycle a top choice for everyday riders.
What Makes the 2025 Splendor Plus Special?
The new Splendor Plus targets practical riders who want a dependable motorcycle without breaking the bank. It competes directly with other popular commuter bikes like the Bajaj Platina 100, Honda CD 110 Dream, and TVS Sport, offering a balanced package that appeals to both city and rural riders.
Engine and Performance: Efficiency First
At the heart of the Splendor Plus is a 97.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. While it’s not designed for speed demons (producing 7.9 PS at 8000 RPM and 8.05 Nm of torque), the BS6-compliant engine delivers exactly what commuters need – a smooth, reliable ride through city traffic.
The motorcycle comes with a simple 4-speed gearbox that’s perfectly matched to city riding conditions. Shifting gears feels natural and the power delivery is predictable, making it easy to navigate through crowded streets.
Where the Splendor truly shines is fuel efficiency. With claimed mileage of 80-85 kilometers per liter, it’s one of the most economical motorcycles available. The 9.8-liter fuel tank means fewer stops at the gas station, saving both time and money for daily commuters.
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Design and Styling: Classic with Modern Touches
The 2025 model receives subtle but meaningful design updates that keep it looking fresh while maintaining its classic appeal. Available in various color combinations with both matte and glossy finishes, the new graphics and decals add a touch of style without being flashy.
Higher variants come with an LED taillight and stylish headlamp design. The seat has been redesigned with a softer pattern for better comfort during long rides, while the ergonomic design ensures a natural riding position that reduces fatigue.
One of the Splendor’s greatest strengths is its compact, lightweight body. Weighing just 112 kg, it’s remarkably easy to handle and maneuver through tight spaces – a crucial advantage in busy urban environments.
The instrument cluster remains refreshingly simple and practical, featuring an analog speedometer, odometer, and fuel gauge. This straightforward approach provides all the essential information at a glance without unnecessary complications.
Ride Quality and Handling: Comfort for Daily Use
The Splendor Plus offers a comfortable riding experience that’s ideal for navigating Indian roads. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear – a proven combination that handles bumps and potholes with reasonable comfort.
At city speeds, the motorcycle feels stable and responsive. The handling is predictable, making it easy to weave through traffic. While it’s not designed for high-speed highway cruising, it performs admirably in its intended environment – the daily urban commute.
The braking system uses drum brakes at both ends, which provide adequate stopping power for city riding conditions. While some competitors now offer disc brake options, the Splendor’s simpler setup helps keep costs down and requires less maintenance over time.
Smart Features: Technology That Makes Sense
The 2025 Splendor Plus incorporates several thoughtful features that enhance the riding experience:
- Hero i3s Technology (Idle Start-Stop System): This fuel-saving feature automatically shuts off the engine when idling at traffic lights and restarts it with a simple clutch pull, improving real-world fuel efficiency.
- Side Stand Engine Cut-off: A safety feature that prevents the engine from running when the side stand is down, protecting both rider and machine.
- Maintenance-Free Battery: One less thing to worry about during routine maintenance.
- XSens Technology: Optimizes engine settings for different riding conditions, ensuring consistent performance.
- USB Charging Port: Available on higher variants, allowing riders to keep their devices charged on the go.
These features add practical value without unnecessarily complicating the motorcycle or driving up its price.
Variants and Pricing: Options for Every Budget
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus comes in several variants to suit different needs and budgets:
- Base Variant: Starting around ₹70,000, offering essential features for cost-conscious buyers.
- i3S Variant: Priced around ₹72,000, adding the fuel-saving idle start-stop system.
- XTEC Variant: The premium option at approximately ₹75,000, featuring an LED headlamp and additional technology features.
With multiple color options across all variants, buyers can find a Splendor Plus that matches both their practical needs and personal style.
Strengths and Limitations
What’s Great:
- Exceptional Fuel Efficiency: The 80-85 kmpl mileage is among the best in its class.
- Low Maintenance: Simple mechanics and readily available spare parts keep long-term ownership costs low.
- Proven Reliability: The Splendor’s reputation for durability gives owners peace of mind.
- Easy Handling: The lightweight design makes it accessible even to new riders.
What Could Be Better:
- Basic Braking: The lack of a disc brake option may disappoint some riders.
- Limited Highway Performance: With just 7.9 PS of power, it’s not ideal for extended highway riding.
- Fewer Premium Features: Some competitors offer more technology at similar price points.
How It Compares to Rivals
- Bajaj Platina 100: The Platina offers superior comfort with its specialized suspension, but the Splendor wins on fuel efficiency and brand trust.
- Honda CD 110 Dream: Honda’s offering provides a smoother overall experience, but the Splendor counters with better mileage and a more established service network.
- TVS Sport: While the Sport includes more features for the price, the Splendor’s legendary reliability and better fuel economy make it a more economical long-term choice.
The Bottom Line
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus stays true to what has made it India’s favorite motorcycle for decades. It doesn’t try to be something it’s not – instead, it focuses on being the best possible commuter motorcycle for everyday riders.
For first-time buyers or anyone seeking a cost-effective, reliable two-wheeler for daily use, the Splendor Plus remains one of the smartest choices in the 100cc segment. It balances affordability, practicality, and dependability in a package that continues to resonate with millions of riders across India.
In a world where vehicles often become increasingly complex and expensive, the Splendor Plus stands out by sticking to what matters most to everyday commuters: getting you where you need to go, reliably and economically, day after day.