Hero Splendor Plus: In the crowded streets of urban India, amid the cacophony of horns and the dense tangle of traffic, one particular motorcycle has been a constant companion to millions for nearly three decades.
The Hero Splendor, with its modest styling and unassuming presence, has ferried office-goers to their workplaces, enabled small business owners to deliver goods, and served as the trusty steed for countless middle-class families.
In 2025, this humble commuter motorcycle receives its most significant transformation yet, embracing premium features while remaining faithful to its core values of reliability and efficiency.
The updated Hero Splendor Plus for 2025 represents an intriguing paradox in the motorcycle world—a vehicle that steadfastly maintains its utilitarian essence while incorporating technology that would have seemed like science fiction when the original model debuted.
Let’s explore how Hero MotoCorp has reimagined this iconic motorcycle for a new generation of riders without alienating its loyal customer base.
Hero Splendor Plus A Legacy of Reliability Gets a Modern Twist
Few vehicles in India’s automotive history can match the Splendor’s cultural relevance. Since its introduction in 1994, the motorcycle has become synonymous with dependability, fuel efficiency, and value—qualities that have made it the world’s highest-selling two-wheeler model.
More than four crore (40 million) units sold later, the Splendor remains a common sight on Indian roads.
The 2025 iteration, particularly in its premium Xtec and Xtec 2.0 variants, builds upon this legacy while acknowledging the changing expectations of today’s consumers.
Younger buyers want more than just bare-bones transportation; they desire connectivity, modern aesthetics, and features that enhance both convenience and safety.
Hero’s challenge was to introduce these elements without compromising the motorcycle’s core appeal.
“When we started developing the 2025 Splendor Plus range, we knew we needed to balance innovation with familiarity,” explains Rajat Bhargava, a senior product manager at Hero MotoCorp whom I interviewed at the launch event.
“Our customers trust this motorcycle with their daily lives, so we couldn’t change its fundamental character. Yet we recognized that today’s riders expect more technology and refinement.”
The result is a motorcycle that, at first glance, remains instantly recognizable as a Splendor. The distinctive tank shape, the upright riding position, and the overall silhouette maintain continuity with previous generations.
Look closer, though, and the subtle enhancements become apparent—premium paint finishes with more sophisticated graphics, improved seat materials, and modern LED lighting that brings the bike firmly into the contemporary era.
Digital Intelligence in an Analog Icon
The most striking departure from the traditional Splendor formula comes in the form of technology integration, particularly in the Xtec variants.
For decades, the Splendor’s instrument cluster consisted of basic analog gauges that provided only essential information.
The 2025 model makes a quantum leap with a fully digital LCD display that brings unprecedented functionality to this segment.
The screen isn’t merely a digital recreation of analog gauges; it’s a connectivity hub that transforms the riding experience.
Bluetooth integration allows for pairing with smartphones, enabling real-time notifications for calls and messages directly on the instrument panel.
For delivery personnel, ride-share operators, and anyone else who relies on their phone for work, this feature eliminates the dangerous temptation to check devices while riding.
Perhaps even more innovative is the real-time mileage indicator—a feature that seems tailor-made for the Splendor’s fuel-conscious audience.
This system provides immediate feedback on fuel efficiency, allowing riders to adjust their throttle inputs for optimal economy.
In a country where every drop of petrol matters to the average commuter, this seemingly simple addition could translate to significant savings over time.
“The mileage display was something our customers specifically requested,” notes Bhargava. “Splendor owners have always prided themselves on achieving excellent fuel efficiency, sometimes even competing among friends to see who could extract the most kilometers from a liter of petrol. Now they have a digital assistant helping them maximize economy.”
Other practical technology additions include a USB charging port positioned conveniently beneath the handlebar—a seemingly minor feature that addresses a major pain point for modern riders who increasingly rely on their smartphones for navigation, communication, and entertainment.
Illuminating the Way Forward
Lighting technology receives particular attention in the 2025 Splendor Plus, especially in the range-topping Xtec 2.0 variant.
Full LED headlights replace the traditional halogen bulbs, providing brighter illumination with less power consumption.
The distinctive H-shaped LED daytime running lights not only enhance visibility during daylight hours but also give the motorcycle a premium identity that distinguishes it from its more basic siblings.
The LED treatment extends to the tail lamp section, where another H-shaped light signature creates visual continuity with the front end.
For a motorcycle at this price point—ranging from ₹80,000 to ₹86,000 depending on the variant—this level of lighting refinement was previously unheard of.
These aren’t merely cosmetic enhancements; they address genuine safety concerns for commuters who often find themselves riding in poorly lit areas or during dawn and dusk hours.
The superior beam pattern and brightness of LED technology significantly improve hazard detection, potentially preventing accidents on India’s often chaotic roads.
Engineering Refinements: Subtle but Significant
While the technological and visual updates may grab immediate attention, Hero’s engineers have also made meaningful mechanical refinements to the 2025 Splendor Plus.
The heart of the motorcycle—its 97.2cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine—has been meticulously upgraded to meet the stringent OBD-2B emission standards while maintaining the legendary reliability that defines the Splendor brand.
This powerplant continues to produce modest numbers on paper—approximately 8 horsepower and 8 Nm of torque—but raw statistics have never been the Splendor’s selling point.
Instead, the focus remains on tractability, smoothness, and efficiency. The engine pulls cleanly from low revs, a characteristic that proves invaluable when navigating congested urban traffic where constant stopping and starting is the norm.
The four-speed transmission offers well-spaced ratios that complement the engine’s torque characteristics, allowing for minimal gear changes during typical commuting scenarios.
In a departure from some competitors that have moved to five-speed gearboxes, Hero has maintained the simpler four-speed unit, prioritizing durability and ease of use over an additional ratio that would add complexity without significant benefit for the Splendor’s intended use case.
One of the most practical engineering innovations is the i3s (Idle Stop-Start System) technology that now comes standard on most Splendor Plus variants.
This system automatically shuts off the engine when the motorcycle is stationary for more than a few seconds, then restarts it instantly when the clutch is engaged.
In urban environments where traffic signals and congestion lead to frequent stops, this feature translates to meaningful fuel savings and reduced emissions.
“During our testing in real-world conditions, we found that the i3s system can improve overall fuel efficiency by 5-7% in heavy traffic,” explains Rajiv Kumar, a development engineer at Hero’s R&D facility.
“It may seem like a small improvement, but over the lifetime of the vehicle, this adds up to significant savings for our customers and reduced environmental impact.”
The suspension system—telescopic forks up front and twin shock absorbers at the rear—receives recalibrated damping to better handle the varied road conditions encountered across India.
The setup strikes a carefully considered balance between comfort and control, providing adequate absorption of road imperfections without excessive dive under braking or wallowing through corners.
Safety Features: Protecting the Everyday Hero
Safety features, often an afterthought in the budget commuter segment, receive newfound prominence in the 2025 Splendor Plus.
The most notable addition is the availability of a front disc brake option—a first for the base Splendor Plus model.
This 240mm rotor with a single-piston caliper delivers significantly improved stopping power compared to the standard drum brake setup, providing riders with greater confidence during emergency braking situations.
All variants now come equipped with Hero’s Integrated Braking System (IBS), which distributes braking force between front and rear wheels even when only the rear brake is applied.
This technology is particularly valuable for less experienced riders who might instinctively rely too heavily on the rear brake in panic situations, potentially leading to skids.
By automatically engaging the front brake to an appropriate degree, the system helps maintain stability during hard stops.
The side-stand engine inhibitor represents another thoughtful safety feature. This simple yet effective system prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is deployed, eliminating the dangerous scenario where a rider might attempt to ride off with the stand still down.
It’s a feature that exemplifies Hero’s approach to safety—practical, reliable, and directly addressing real-world riding behaviors.
Perhaps the most unexpected safety addition is the hazard light function, which allows all four turn indicators to flash simultaneously with the press of a dedicated switch.
While common on premium motorcycles, this feature has rarely been offered on entry-level commuters despite its obvious utility during breakdowns or in low-visibility conditions.
Ownership Experience: Beyond the Product
Hero’s approach to the 2025 Splendor Plus extends beyond the physical motorcycle to encompass the entire ownership journey.
The company has enhanced its after-sales support with digital service booking, standardized maintenance costs, and extended warranty options that provide peace of mind for budget-conscious buyers.
The Hero app now interfaces directly with Xtec variants, allowing owners to track service history, receive maintenance reminders, and even diagnose basic issues before visiting a service center.
This digital integration transforms the traditional ownership model, bringing premium customer service experiences to an accessible price point.
Personalization options have expanded significantly as well, with a wider range of accessories and customization choices available through official channels.
From practical additions like luggage racks and windscreens to cosmetic enhancements such as tank pads and colored wheel rim tapes, the catalog allows owners to tailor their Splendor to individual preferences while maintaining warranty coverage.
The Competition: Standing Out in a Crowded Field
The commuter motorcycle segment in India remains fiercely competitive, with established players and newcomers alike vying for market share.
The Honda Shine 100, Bajaj Platina 110, and TVS Radeon present formidable alternatives to the Splendor Plus, each with distinct strengths and value propositions.
Honda’s Shine 100 offers the Japanese manufacturer’s reputation for refinement and quality, while the Bajaj Platina emphasizes comfort with its specialized “ComforTec” suspension.
The TVS Radeon targets slightly younger buyers with more contemporary styling and features like USB charging as standard.
Yet the 2025 Splendor Plus, particularly in its Xtec variants, creates meaningful differentiation through its combination of trusted reliability and forward-looking technology.
The Bluetooth-connected instrument cluster, real-time mileage display, and LED lighting package collectively create a value proposition that competitors struggle to match at similar price points.
Perhaps the Splendor’s greatest competitive advantage, however, remains intangible: the brand equity built over decades of consistent performance.
In rural and semi-urban areas especially, the Splendor name carries immense weight—it’s not merely a motorcycle but a proven institution, a known quantity in an uncertain world.
Real-World Impressions: Beyond the Specifications
During a week of testing the 2025 Splendor Plus Xtec 2.0 in both urban and rural environments, several qualities emerged that don’t appear on specification sheets but significantly influence the ownership experience.
The riding position—upright with a natural reach to the handlebars and moderate foot peg placement—proves comfortable for riders of varying heights.
The redesigned seat offers improved support for both rider and passenger, with denser foam that resists compression over long periods better than previous generations.
This seemingly minor enhancement makes a substantial difference during extended commutes or when carrying a pillion.
Fuel efficiency, the Splendor’s traditional strong suit, remains exceptional. In mixed riding conditions, the 2025 model consistently delivers between 70-75 kilometers per liter—figures that translate to nearly 700 kilometers from the 9.8-liter fuel tank.
Economy-minded riders employing gentle throttle inputs and utilizing the i3s system effectively might see even better results, potentially approaching the company’s claimed 83 kmpl in ideal conditions.
The engine’s refinement deserves special mention. Despite its modest displacement and simple air-cooled architecture, the powerplant exhibits minimal vibration at typical operating speeds.
Only when pushed beyond 70 kph do noticeable vibrations begin to manifest through the footpegs and handlebars—but such velocities fall outside the Splendor’s intended usage envelope anyway.
Weather protection, often overlooked in commuter evaluations, proves surprisingly effective. The front fairing, though compact, diverts wind around the rider’s torso effectively, while the slightly raised handlebar position places the hands in a natural position that reduces wrist strain during longer journeys.
Looking Forward: The Evolving Splendor Story
The 2025 Splendor Plus represents a pivotal moment in the model’s evolution. By incorporating premium technology and safety features while maintaining its core character, Hero has crafted a motorcycle that bridges generations, appealing to both traditional customers and younger riders with higher expectations.
This balancing act—modernizing without alienating, advancing without abandoning identity—offers valuable insights into product development philosophy in emerging markets.
The Splendor’s success demonstrates that innovation need not come at the expense of established values when executed thoughtfully.
Future iterations will likely continue this careful evolution, potentially incorporating even more advanced connectivity features, further emissions improvements, and perhaps alternative propulsion systems as India’s automotive landscape gradually shifts toward electrification.
Hero’s recent investments in electric vehicle technology suggest that an electrified Splendor variant may eventually join the lineup, though the conventional internal combustion model will undoubtedly continue for many years given its importance to the company’s business.
Whatever form it takes, the Splendor seems destined to remain what it has always been: a faithful companion to millions of riders, enabling daily mobility with minimal fuss and maximum value.
The 2025 model enhances this fundamental proposition without reinventing it—a subtle but significant achievement in product development that deserves recognition.
Hero Splendor Plus Conclusion: Everyday Excellence
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus, particularly in its Xtec variants, exemplifies how thoughtful engineering and feature integration can elevate an established product without compromising its essential character.
By embracing digital technology, enhancing safety features, and refining the overall user experience, Hero has ensured that this iconic motorcycle remains relevant in an increasingly sophisticated market.
For daily commuters—the shop owners, office workers, students, and delivery personnel who form the backbone of India’s workforce—the updated Splendor offers tangible benefits that improve both practicality and enjoyment.
The smartphone connectivity reduces the temptation to check devices while riding, the improved lighting enhances safety during early morning or evening commutes, and the real-time efficiency display helps maximize the value of every rupee spent on fuel.
At its core, the Splendor has always been about accessibility—making reliable motorized transportation available to the widest possible audience.
The 2025 model maintains this democratic approach while acknowledging that today’s definition of “basic transportation” includes digital integration and enhanced safety features.
In this sense, the Splendor Plus continues to fulfill its original mission while adapting to contemporary expectations—a moving target that requires continuous refinement rather than revolutionary change.
It’s an approach that honors the motorcycle’s heritage while ensuring its continued relevance for the next generation of Indian riders.
For those millions of individuals who depend on their motorcycles not as weekend toys but as essential tools for daily living, the 2025 Splendor Plus delivers exactly what’s needed: dependable performance, reasonable operating costs, and now, thoughtfully integrated technology that genuinely enhances the ownership experience.
In a world of increasingly complex and expensive mobility solutions, there remains something profoundly reassuring about a product that simply works, day after day, without drama or pretense.
The humble Hero continues to earn its place in India’s transportation ecosystem—not through flash or excessive performance, but through the quiet excellence that has always been the Splendor’s defining characteristic.