Hero Splendor 135: It’s a bustling morning in the heart of Mumbai. Amidst the cacophony of horns and the aroma of roadside chai, a sleek motorcycle weaves through traffic with surprising agility.
At first glance, it looks familiar – the iconic silhouette of a Hero Splendor. But there’s something different about this one. It moves with a bit more urgency, sounds a tad more assertive. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the Hero Splendor 135 – the beloved commuter bike’s more muscular cousin.
The Splendor name has been synonymous with reliable, fuel-efficient commuting in India for decades. But with the 135, Hero MotoCorp is writing a new chapter in this storied legacy.
It’s a bike that asks, “Why can’t practicality have a bit of punch?” and then proceeds to answer its own question with a resounding rev of its engine.
As we dive into the world of the Splendor 135, we’ll explore how this bike manages to honor its roots while pushing the boundaries of what a commuter motorcycle can be. So, kick-start your imagination, and let’s take a ride through the streets of innovation, where tradition meets performance.
Design Evolution: Familiar Yet Fresh
Exterior: The Splendor, Reimagined
At first glance, the Splendor 135 is unmistakably a member of the Splendor family. But look closer, and you’ll see a design that’s been hitting the gym:
- Muscular Fuel Tank: Slightly larger and more sculpted, hinting at the increased power within.
- Sharper Headlamp: LED lighting that not only looks modern but also improves visibility.
- Sporty Graphics: Subtle yet eye-catching decals that add a dash of youthfulness.
- Wider Tires: Chunkier rubber that improves stability and gives the bike a more planted look.
The designers at Hero have walked a tightrope here, balancing the need for familiarity with the desire for a fresh look. The result is a bike that nods respectfully to its predecessors while confidently striding into the future.
Ergonomics: Comfort Meets Control
Swing a leg over the Splendor 135, and you’ll find a riding position that feels like coming home – but to a home that’s had a bit of an upgrade:
- Slightly Raised Handlebars: Providing better leverage for more spirited riding without sacrificing comfort.
- Redesigned Seat: Longer and wider, with improved cushioning for those long rides.
- Repositioned Footpegs: Offering a more natural leg position that reduces fatigue on longer journeys.
It’s clear that Hero has put thought into making the Splendor 135 a bike that’s as comfortable on a two-hour highway stretch as it is during a 20-minute commute.
Heart of the Matter: The 135cc Powerhouse
Engine: More Than Just Numbers
At the core of the Splendor 135’s evolution is its heart – a 135cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that brings a new level of performance to the Splendor line:
- Power Output: A respectable 11 bhp at 7500 rpm
- Torque: 11 Nm at 5500 rpm, providing that extra grunt for overtaking
- Fuel Injection: For crisp throttle response and improved fuel efficiency
This engine isn’t just about the numbers, though. It’s about the feeling it gives you when you twist the throttle. It’s the confidence of knowing you have that extra power when you need it, whether you’re merging onto a highway or climbing a steep hill with a pillion.
Transmission: Smooth Operator
Paired with this peppy engine is a 5-speed gearbox that’s smoother than butter on hot parathas:
- Precise shifts that even novice riders will appreciate
- Well-spaced ratios that make the most of the engine’s power band
- A light clutch that won’t tire you out in stop-and-go traffic
Fuel Efficiency: The Splendor Legacy Lives On
Now, you might be thinking, “More power must mean less efficiency, right?” Wrong. The engineers at Hero have worked their magic to ensure that the Splendor 135 lives up to its family name:
- Claimed efficiency of 60 kmpl under test conditions
- Real-world efficiency often exceeding 55 kmpl
- Eco-friendly riding mode for those times when you want to stretch your fuel rupee even further
Ride and Handling: Taming the Urban Jungle
Suspension: Soaking Up the Bumps
Indian roads can be… let’s say “challenging.” The Splendor 135’s suspension is up to the task:
- Front: Telescopic forks with increased travel for better bump absorption
- Rear: 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers
This setup offers a balance between comfort and handling. It’s plush enough to soak up potholes yet firm enough to inspire confidence when you’re cornering with a bit more enthusiasm.
Brakes: Stop on a Rupee
With great power comes great responsibility, and the braking system on the Splendor 135 ensures you can rein in those horses effectively:
- Front: 240mm disc brake for strong, predictable stopping power
- Rear: 130mm drum brake for balanced braking
- Integrated Braking System: For safer, more controlled stops, especially for less experienced riders
Tires: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
The Splendor 135 comes shod with wider rubber than its smaller siblings:
- Tubeless tires for added safety and convenience
- Improved grip in both dry and wet conditions
- A tread pattern designed to evacuate water effectively during monsoon seasons
Technology Integration: Old School Meets New Cool
Instrument Cluster: Information at a Glance
The Splendor 135 brings the iconic commuter into the digital age with its new instrument cluster:
- Fully digital display for clear readability
- Real-time fuel efficiency indicator
- Gear position indicator
- Service reminder
Lighting: Illuminating the Way
Visibility is crucial, especially for those early morning or late-night rides:
- LED headlamp for better illumination and energy efficiency
- LED tail lamp that ensures you’re seen from behind
- Automatic Headlamp On (AHO) for improved safety
Smart Features: Because Why Not?
Hero has thrown in a few nifty features that you wouldn’t expect in this segment:
- USB charging port for keeping your devices juiced up
- Side-stand indicator with engine cut-off for added safety
- Optional Bluetooth connectivity for call and message alerts (on higher variants)
The Riding Experience: More Than Just Commuting
In the City: Urban Assault Vehicle
Navigating through city traffic, the Splendor 135 feels like a skilled dancer – agile, responsive, and always composed:
- Quick acceleration for those gaps in traffic that appear and disappear in the blink of an eye
- Light steering for easy maneuverability in tight spots
- Upright seating position for a clear view of surrounding traffic
On the Highway: Weekend Warrior
But don’t think this bike is just for short hops. The Splendor 135 is equally at home on the open road:
- Stable at higher speeds, inspiring confidence on long stretches
- Enough power to comfortably cruise at 80-90 km/h
- Comfortable ergonomics that don’t leave you with a sore back after a few hours
The Fun Factor: Commuter with a Twist
Here’s where the Splendor 135 really surprises. It’s a commuter bike, sure, but it’s also genuinely fun to ride:
- Eager engine that encourages you to rev it out occasionally
- Nimble handling that makes twisty roads a joy
- Enough poke to put a smile on your face without scaring you
Real People, Real Stories
The Office Goer
Meet Rahul, a 32-year-old IT professional from Pune:
“I upgraded to the Splendor 135 from my old 100cc bike, and it’s been a game-changer. The extra power means I can keep up with traffic easily, and I still get great mileage. Plus, it’s comfortable enough that I don’t mind the occasional weekend ride to Lonavala.”
The College Student
Priya, a 21-year-old engineering student from Bangalore, shares her experience:
“The Splendor 135 is my first bike, and I love it! It’s easy to handle in traffic, and I feel safe with the integrated braking system. The best part? I can go on rides with my friends on weekends without feeling left behind.”
The Small Business Owner
Amit, a 40-year-old shopkeeper from Jaipur, explains how the Splendor 135 fits into his life:
“I use my Splendor 135 for everything – commuting to my shop, making deliveries, and taking my family out on weekends. The larger engine means I can carry heavier loads without struggling, and it’s still as reliable as my old Splendor. It’s not just a bike; it’s a business partner.”
Ownership Experience: Beyond the Ride
Maintenance: Keeping It in the Family
One of the biggest advantages of the Splendor 135 is that it retains the easy maintenance of its smaller siblings:
- Service intervals of 3000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first
- Wide availability of spare parts
- Simple engine design that many local mechanics can work on
Resale Value: Holding Strong
In a country where resale value is often a deciding factor, the Splendor 135 holds its own:
- Strong brand reputation ensures good resale value
- Durability means the bike ages well, fetching better prices in the used market
Community: More Than Just Owners
Owning a Splendor 135 means being part of something bigger:
- Active online forums where owners share tips and experiences
- Local Splendor clubs organizing rides and meetups
- A sense of belonging to the larger Hero family
The Road Ahead: Future of the Splendor 135
Potential Upgrades
The automotive world never stands still, and neither will the Splendor 135. Potential future upgrades could include:
- Ride-by-wire throttle for even better fuel efficiency
- Switchable traction control for added safety
- Fully-digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity
Market Position
As the Indian motorcycle market evolves, the Splendor 135 is well-positioned to bridge the gap between basic commuters and more premium offerings:
- Attracting younger buyers who want a bit more performance
- Appealing to existing Splendor owners looking to upgrade
- Competing with 150cc bikes on features and performance, if not outright power
Hero Splendor 135: The Splendor, Elevated
As we reach the end of our journey with the Hero Splendor 135, it’s clear that this isn’t just another iteration of India’s favorite commuter. It’s a bold step forward, a bike that respects its roots while reaching for new heights.
The Splendor 135 represents more than just an increase in engine capacity. It’s a reflection of India’s evolving automotive landscape,
where consumers are demanding more from their vehicles without sacrificing the practicality and efficiency that made bikes like the Splendor household names.
For the young professional looking for a reliable yet exciting commute, the college student wanting a bike that can keep up with friends, or the small business owner needing a versatile workhorse,
the Splendor 135 offers a compelling package. It’s a bike that says you can have your cake and eat it too – performance doesn’t have to come at the cost of practicality.
In a way, the Splendor 135 is a metaphor for modern India itself – rooted in tradition but eager to embrace the future, practical yet aspirational, comfortable in the city but ready for adventure.
It’s a bike that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B; it makes the journey between those points something to look forward to.
As the sun sets on our exploration of the Hero Splendor 135, one thing is clear – the icon has evolved, but its spirit remains unchanged. It’s still the reliable, efficient, and beloved Splendor at heart, just with a bit more spring in its step and a twinkle in its headlight.
So, the next time you see a Splendor 135 zipping by, give a nod of appreciation. It’s not just carrying its rider; it’s carrying the legacy of millions of Indian journeys, dreams, and aspirations. And with its new heart beating strong, it’s ready to write the next chapter in India’s two-wheeled saga.
The Hero Splendor 135 – it’s the Splendor you know and love, just with a bit more oomph. And in the grand tapestry of Indian motorcycling, that extra oomph might just make all the difference.