In the vast tapestry of Indian motorcycling, few names resonate as strongly as the Hero Splendor Plus.
This humble commuter bike has been the backbone of personal transportation in India for decades, earning its place not through flashy features or high-performance specs, but through sheer reliability, affordability, and practicality.
Let’s delve into the world of the Hero Splendor Plus and understand why it continues to dominate Indian roads.
A Legacy of Trust
The Hero Splendor’s journey began in 1994, born out of the collaboration between Hero Cycles and Honda.
Although the partnership has since dissolved, with Hero MotoCorp continuing independently, the Splendor’s legacy remains undiminished. The Splendor Plus, an evolution of the original model, carries forward this rich heritage.
Milestones in the Splendor’s Journey
1994: Introduction of the original Splendor
2001: Launch of the Splendor Plus variant
2011: Hero and Honda part ways, but the Splendor continues under Hero MotoCorp
2020: BS6 compliant models introduced
Design: Simplicity Meets Functionality
The Splendor Plus doesn’t aim to turn heads with its design, yet its simplicity has an charm of its own:
Clean, no-nonsense lines that have stood the test of time
Comfortable, upright riding position ideal for long commutes
Robust build quality that can withstand the rigors of Indian roads
Available in a variety of colors to suit different tastes
Recent updates have included:
Refreshed graphics for a more modern look
LED headlamp for improved visibility (in select variants)
Digital-analog instrument cluster combining tradition with modernity
Engine and Performance: Efficiency at its Core
At the heart of the Splendor Plus lies its tried-and-tested engine:
97.2cc air-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder engine
Power output: 8.02 PS at 8000 rpm
Torque: 8.05 Nm at 6000 rpm
4-speed constant mesh transmission
While these numbers might seem modest, they are perfectly suited for the Splendor’s intended purpose. The engine’s true strength lies in its:
Exceptional fuel efficiency (up to 80 kmpl claimed)
Smooth power delivery ideal for city riding
Low maintenance requirements
Proven reliability with many units clocking over 100,000 km
Features: Focused on Practicality
The Splendor Plus doesn’t boast a long list of features, but what it offers is carefully chosen to enhance its utility:
i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) for improved fuel efficiency in traffic
Tubeless tires for better safety and ease of repair
Side stand indicator to prevent accidental riding with the stand down
Long, comfortable seat suitable for rider and pillion
Robust carrier for carrying luggage
Riding Experience: Comfort in Familiarity
Riding a Splendor Plus is an exercise in simplicity:
Light clutch action makes it easy to navigate through traffic
Smooth gearbox requires minimal effort to operate
Well-tuned suspension soaks up road imperfections effectively
Excellent fuel efficiency means fewer stops at the petrol pump
Low seat height makes it accessible to riders of all statures
The Splendor’s Impact on Indian Society
The Hero Splendor Plus is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a socio-economic phenomenon:
Empowering Mobility
Affordable price point makes personal transportation accessible to millions
Fuel efficiency allows for economical daily commutes
Reliability ensures minimal downtime, crucial for those dependent on their vehicles for livelihood
Cultural Icon
Often the first motorcycle for many Indian families
Featured in numerous Bollywood movies and TV shows
A symbol of the rising middle class in India
Economic Contributor
Significant employer through Hero’s vast manufacturing and dealership network
Supports a large ecosystem of spare parts manufacturers and service centers
Variants and Pricing
The Splendor Plus is available in multiple variants to cater to different needs and budgets:
Kick Start Drum Brake
Self Start Drum Brake
Self Start Drum Brake Alloy Wheel
Self Start Disc Brake Alloy Wheel
Prices range from approximately ₹70,000 to ₹75,000 (ex-showroom), making it one of the most affordable motorcycles in India.
Competitors and Market Position
Despite facing stiff competition, the Splendor Plus continues to dominate its segment. Key competitors include:
Bajaj Platina
TVS Star City Plus
Honda CD 110 Dream
The Splendor maintains its edge through:
Strong brand loyalty
Extensive service network
Proven reliability record
Environmental Considerations
In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, the Splendor Plus has adapted:
BS6 compliant engine with reduced emissions
Fuel efficiency contributes to lower carbon footprint
i3S technology helps reduce unnecessary idling
The Future of Splendor: Evolving with the Times
As India moves towards electric mobility, the future of the Splendor is a topic of much speculation:
Potential for hybrid or fully electric versions in the future
Continued refinement of the existing petrol engine for even better efficiency
Possible introduction of more advanced features while maintaining simplicity
Hero Splendor Plus : The People’s Motorcycle
The Hero Splendor Plus is more than just a collection of metal, plastic, and rubber; it’s a testament to the power of simplicity and reliability. In a world increasingly dominated by complexity and rapid change, the Splendor stands as a beacon of constancy.
Its impact extends far beyond the realm of transportation. For millions of Indians, the Splendor Plus represents freedom, opportunity, and progress. It’s the reliable steed that takes them to work, carries their families, and supports their livelihoods.
As we look to the future, with all its technological advancements and shifts in consumer preferences, the core values that the Splendor Plus embodies – reliability, affordability, and practicality – will likely remain as relevant as ever.
Whether in its current form or evolved into something new, the spirit of the Splendor Plus will continue to resonate with the heart of India.
In the grand narrative of Indian motorcycling, flashier and more powerful bikes may come and go, but the Hero Splendor Plus remains a constant, humble yet proud, simple yet profound – truly the unsung hero of Indian roads.