Hero Splendor Plus new look with luxury features, cost is very low

In the vast and diverse landscape of Indian motorcycling, one name stands out as a true icon – the Hero Splendor Plus.

For decades, this unassuming yet remarkably capable motorcycle has dominated the streets, villages, and highways of India, earning its place as the best-selling two-wheeler in the world.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve deep into what makes the Splendor Plus such a phenomenal success, exploring its history, design, performance, and the cultural impact it has had on Indian society.

A Legacy of Excellence

The story of the Splendor begins in the early 1980s when Hero, in collaboration with Honda, introduced the first generation of this legendary motorcycle. Originally known as the Hero Honda CD100, it laid the foundation for what would become a dynasty in the Indian two-wheeler market.

The Birth of an Icon

In 1994, the Splendor name was officially introduced, and it quickly became synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and value for money. The partnership between Hero and Honda continued to refine and improve the Splendor, cementing its position as the go-to choice for millions of Indians looking for affordable and dependable transportation.

Evolution of the Splendor

Over the years, the Splendor has seen numerous iterations and improvements:

1994: Introduction of the original Splendor
2004: Launch of the Splendor Plus with enhanced features
2011: Hero and Honda part ways, with Hero continuing the Splendor legacy
2015: Introduction of i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology
2020: BS6 compliant models introduced

Each evolution has built upon the strengths of its predecessor, always maintaining the core values that made the Splendor a household name.

Design Philosophy: Simplicity Meets Functionality

The Hero Splendor Plus has never been about flashy designs or aggressive styling. Instead, its design philosophy centers around simplicity, functionality, and broad appeal. This approach has been key to its success across diverse demographics and geographies within India.

Exterior Styling

The Splendor Plus features a timeless design that has evolved subtly over the years:

Clean, straight lines that give the bike a classic look
A well-proportioned body that appeals to a wide range of riders
Chrome accents on the mudguards and exhaust that add a touch of premium feel
A comfortable, upright riding position that’s ideal for both city commutes and long rides

While the basic silhouette has remained largely unchanged, Hero has made subtle updates to keep the design fresh:

Modern graphics and color schemes that appeal to younger riders
Updated headlamp design with more efficient lighting
Redesigned tail lamp for improved visibility

Color Options

The Splendor Plus is available in a variety of colors to suit different tastes:

Black with Purple
Black with Silver
Candy Blazing Red
Heavy Grey with Green
Black with Sports Red

These color options allow buyers to choose a bike that reflects their personal style while maintaining the Splendor’s classic appeal.

Ergonomics

One of the key factors in the Splendor Plus’s success is its excellent ergonomics:

Wide, comfortable seat that can accommodate riders of various sizes
Well-positioned handlebars that provide a natural riding posture
Footpegs placed for optimal comfort during long rides
Easy-to-reach controls that make the bike accessible to novice riders

These ergonomic considerations make the Splendor Plus comfortable for both short city commutes and longer intercity travels.

Heart of the Matter: Engine and Performance

The Hero Splendor Plus is powered by a simple yet remarkably efficient engine that has been refined over decades of development.

Engine Specifications

Type: Air-cooled, 4-stroke single cylinder OHC
Displacement: 97.2 cc
Maximum Power: 8.02 PS @ 8000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 8.05 Nm @ 5000 rpm
Bore x Stroke: 50.0 x 49.5 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.9:1
Carburetor: Side Draft, Variable Venturi type with TCIS (Throttle Controlled Ignition System)

Performance Characteristics

While the numbers may seem modest by modern standards, the Splendor Plus’s engine is perfectly tuned for its intended purpose:

Smooth power delivery that’s ideal for city riding
Excellent low-end torque for quick acceleration in traffic
Refined operation with minimal vibrations
Legendary reliability that has become the Splendor’s hallmark

The engine’s characteristics make it exceptionally easy to ride, a factor that has contributed significantly to its popularity among a wide range of users, from first-time riders to experienced commuters.

Fuel Efficiency

Perhaps the most celebrated aspect of the Splendor Plus is its incredible fuel efficiency:

Claimed mileage: 80.6 km/l (under ideal test conditions)
Real-world mileage: 60-70 km/l (depending on riding conditions and style)

This exceptional fuel efficiency is a major selling point in a market where running costs are a crucial consideration for many buyers.

Transmission

The Splendor Plus features a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox that’s well-suited to its engine characteristics:

Smooth shifting action that’s easy for novice riders to master
Well-spaced gear ratios for optimal performance in city traffic
Heel-and-toe shifter for added convenience

The combination of this transmission with the torquey engine results in a powertrain that’s perfectly suited for Indian road conditions.

Ride and Handling: Mastering Indian Roads

The Splendor Plus’s ride and handling characteristics are tailored to excel in the diverse and often challenging road conditions found across India.

Suspension

Front: Telescopic Hydraulic Shock Absorbers
Rear: Swing Arm with 5-step Adjustable Hydraulic Shock Absorbers

This suspension setup strikes a balance between comfort and stability:

Absorbs road imperfections effectively, providing a comfortable ride
Offers enough feedback to the rider for confident handling
Rear suspension adjustability allows for fine-tuning based on load and road conditions

Brakes

The braking system on the Splendor Plus is simple yet effective:

Front: 130 mm Drum Brake
Rear: 110 mm Drum Brake

While disc brakes are available on some variants, the standard drum brake setup provides:

Adequate stopping power for the bike’s performance
Easy maintenance and lower replacement costs
Integrated Braking System (IBS) for improved braking efficiency

Tires and Wheels

The Splendor Plus rides on 18-inch wheels with the following tire specifications:

Front: 2.75 x 18 – 4 PR / 42 P
Rear: 2.75 x 18 – 6 PR / 48 P

These wire-spoke wheels and narrow tires offer several advantages:

Good stability on various road surfaces
Easier to repair in remote areas compared to alloy wheels
Lower replacement costs, an important factor for budget-conscious owners

Features and Technology: Blending Tradition with Innovation

While the Splendor Plus is known for its simplicity, Hero has gradually introduced modern features to keep it relevant in an evolving market.

i3S Technology

One of the most significant technological additions to the Splendor Plus is the i3S (Idle Start-Stop System):

Automatically turns off the engine when idling for more than a few seconds
Restarts the engine when the clutch is engaged
Improves fuel efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic

This feature not only enhances fuel economy but also reduces emissions, making the Splendor Plus more environmentally friendly.

Instrument Cluster

The instrument panel of the Splendor Plus is a blend of analog and digital displays:

Analog speedometer for easy reading on the go
Digital odometer and trip meter for accurate distance tracking
Fuel gauge for at-a-glance fuel level information
Various tell-tale lights for essential information

While not as advanced as some competitors, this setup provides all the necessary information without overwhelming the rider.

Lighting

The lighting system on the Splendor Plus has been updated over the years:

Halogen headlamp for good visibility at night
LED tail lamp on newer models for improved visibility and energy efficiency
Clear-lens turn indicators for a modern look

Other Features

Electric start (kick start also available)
Lockable toolkit compartment
Sturdy center stand and side stand
Comfortable grab rail for pillion riders

Comfort and Practicality: The Everyday Companion

The Splendor Plus’s enduring popularity is largely due to its exceptional comfort and practicality for everyday use.

Seating

The long, well-padded seat is a key comfort feature:

Accommodates riders of various heights comfortably
Provides enough space for a pillion rider
Covered in durable, weather-resistant material

Fuel Tank

The 11-liter fuel tank strikes a balance between capacity and compactness:

Provides an excellent range of over 600 km on a single tank
Shaped to allow easy grip with the knees while riding
Large enough for convenient refueling intervals

Storage and Utility

While not designed as a utility vehicle, the Splendor Plus offers practical storage solutions:

Under-seat storage for small items like documents or a basic toolkit
Optional luggage rack for additional carrying capacity
Sturdy footpegs that can support moderately heavy loads tied to the sides

Weather Protection

The Splendor Plus offers basic weather protection:

Small front mudguard to reduce spray in wet conditions
Long rear mudguard to protect the rider and pillion from mud and water
Optional accessories like leg guards for additional protection

Safety Features: Ensuring Rider Confidence

While the Splendor Plus may not boast advanced safety technologies found in more expensive motorcycles, it incorporates several features to enhance rider safety:

Integrated Braking System (IBS) for more balanced braking
Bright headlamp for good visibility at night
Robust chassis design for stability
Wide tires for better grip on various road surfaces

The bike’s inherent stability and predictable handling also contribute significantly to its safety profile.

Environmental Considerations

As environmental concerns become increasingly important, the Splendor Plus has adapted to meet stricter emissions standards:

BS6 compliant engine with reduced emissions
i3S technology that reduces fuel consumption and emissions in traffic
Excellent fuel efficiency that minimizes overall carbon footprint

While not a zero-emission vehicle, the Splendor Plus represents one of the more environmentally friendly options in the commuter motorcycle segment.

Ownership Experience: More Than Just a Motorcycle

Owning a Hero Splendor Plus is an experience that extends far beyond the act of riding. It’s about becoming part of a vast community of Splendor owners across India.

Maintenance and Reliability

The Splendor Plus is renowned for its low maintenance requirements and exceptional reliability:

Service intervals typically every 3000 km or 3 months
Simple engine design that’s easy to maintain, even for novice mechanics
Widely available spare parts at affordable prices
Robust construction that can withstand harsh conditions

These factors contribute to very low overall ownership costs, a crucial consideration for many buyers.

Resale Value

The Splendor Plus enjoys excellent resale value in the Indian market:

High demand for used Splendors due to their reputation for reliability
Slow depreciation compared to many other motorcycles
Strong brand value that maintains desirability even for older models

Hero’s Service Network

Hero MotoCorp boasts one of the largest service networks in India:

Over 6000 touch points across the country
Easily accessible service even in remote areas
Standardized service quality across the network

This extensive service network provides peace of mind to Splendor owners, knowing that support is always nearby.

Cultural Impact: The Splendor as a Social Phenomenon

The Hero Splendor Plus is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a cultural icon that has played a significant role in India’s socio-economic landscape.

Mobility for the Masses

The Splendor has been instrumental in providing affordable mobility to millions of Indians:

Often the first motorized vehicle for many families
Enabled better access to education and employment opportunities
Improved connectivity in rural areas

Symbol of Aspiration and Progress

Owning a Splendor has long been seen as a step up the social ladder:

A sign of financial stability and progress
Often featured in Indian movies and TV shows as a symbol of the common man’s success
Passed down through generations, becoming a family heirloom of sorts

Economic Impact

The Splendor’s success has had far-reaching economic implications:

Created a vast ecosystem of dealers, mechanics, and spare parts manufacturers
Contributed significantly to Hero MotoCorp’s position as one of India’s largest companies
Played a role in developing India’s automotive manufacturing capabilities

Customization and Accessories

While the Splendor Plus is beloved for its simplicity, there’s a thriving culture of customization among enthusiasts:

Aftermarket exhausts for a sportier sound
Custom paint jobs and graphics for personalization
Practical add-ons like luggage racks, phone holders, and crash guards

Hero also offers a range of official accessories to enhance the bike’s utility and appearance.

Competition and Market Position

Despite facing increasing competition, the Splendor Plus continues to dominate the 100cc motorcycle segment:

Key Competitors

Bajaj Platina
TVS Star City Plus
Honda CD 110 Dream

Splendor’s Competitive Advantages

Unmatched brand recognition and trust
Exceptional fuel efficiency
Vast service network
Proven reliability and low maintenance costs

While competitors often offer more features or slightly more power, the Splendor’s overall package and brand value keep it at the top of sales charts year after year.

Future Prospects: Evolving with the Times

As the automotive industry undergoes rapid changes, the future of the Splendor Plus is a topic of much interest:

Potential Developments

Introduction of fuel injection across all variants for improved efficiency and emissions control
Possible hybrid or electric versions to meet future emissions regulations
Enhanced connectivity features to appeal to younger buyers

Challenges

Increasing competition from feature-rich 125cc motorcycles
Growing interest in electric two-wheelers in urban areas
Evolving consumer preferences, especially among younger riders

Despite these challenges, the Splendor’s strong brand value and Hero’s commitment to evolving the product line suggest a bright future for this iconic motorcycle.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Hero Splendor Plus

The Hero Splendor Plus is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a testament to the power of understanding and meeting the core needs of consumers.

Its blend of reliability, efficiency, and affordability has made it an integral part of Indian society, earning it a place not just in garages, but in the hearts of millions.

From bustling city streets to remote village roads, the Splendor Plus continues to be a familiar sight, a trusted companion for riders from all walks of life.

Its simplicity is its strength, providing a no-frills, dependable mode of transportation that has stood the test of time.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the Splendor Plus will need to evolve to meet changing consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.

However, if history is any indication, Hero MotoCorp will find ways to adapt this iconic model while retaining the core values that have made it such a phenomenal success.

In the end, the Hero Splendor Plus is more than the sum of its parts. It’s a cultural icon, a catalyst for social mobility, and a shining example of how a well-designed product can have a profound impact on society.

As it continues to evolve and adapt, the Splendor Plus seems poised to maintain its position as the undisputed king of Indian roads for years to come.