In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian motorcycles, few names resonate as strongly as the Hero Splendor.
For decades, this iconic brand has been synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and value for money.
Now, Hero MotoCorp is set to shake up the market once again with the introduction of the New Hero Splendor 135.
This latest iteration isn’t just an incremental update; it’s a bold reimagining of what a commuter motorcycle can be in 2025 and beyond.
A Legacy Reimagined
The Splendor nameplate has been a cornerstone of Indian motorcycling since the early 1990s.
With over 100 million units sold, it’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a cultural phenomenon.
The new Splendor 135 builds on this rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of technology, design, and performance.
The Heart of the Matter: A New Powerplant
At the core of the New Splendor 135 lies its most significant upgrade – a larger, more powerful engine.
The 134.5cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine is a masterpiece of engineering, balancing power and efficiency in a way that only Hero MotoCorp seems to have mastered.
Key engine specifications:
Displacement: 134.5cc
Maximum Power: 11.5 PS @ 7500 rpm
Peak Torque: 11.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
This new powerplant offers a 30% increase in power over the previous 125cc model, providing zippy acceleration and confident overtaking abilities.
Yet, true to the Splendor DNA, it maintains an impressive fuel efficiency of 65 km/l under standard testing conditions.
Design Evolution: Modern Classic
The New Splendor 135 strikes a delicate balance between nostalgia and contemporary design.
The iconic Splendor silhouette remains, but with sharper lines and more aggressive styling cues.
The headlamp unit now features a full LED setup with a distinctive DRL (Daytime Running Light) signature, ensuring both style and safety.
The fuel tank has been resculpted to offer a more muscular appearance while maintaining the 11-liter capacity.
New graphics and color schemes, including the eye-catching “Electric Blue” and “Fiery Red,” give the Splendor 135 a youthful, energetic appearance.
Riding into the Future: Technology Integration
Hero MotoCorp has loaded the Splendor 135 with technology that was once the preserve of much more expensive motorcycles:
Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: A blend of traditional and modern, providing all essential information at a glance.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair your smartphone for call alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, and music control.
Hero Connect: An IoT-based solution offering features like geo-fencing, live tracking, and service reminders.
USB Charging Port: A practical addition for keeping your devices charged on the go.
Start-Stop Technology: Enhancing fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
Comfort and Ergonomics: The Daily Rider’s Dream
Understanding that many Splendor owners spend hours in the saddle daily, Hero has paid special attention to comfort and ergonomics:
New Seat Design: Wider and with improved cushioning for long-distance comfort.
Adjustable Rear Suspension: Allowing riders to fine-tune their setup based on load and road conditions.
Raised Handlebar: Offering a more upright and comfortable riding position.
Larger Footpegs: Providing better grip and reducing fatigue on longer rides.
Safety First: Braking and Stability
Safety has been a key focus area in the development of the New Splendor 135:
Combined Braking System (CBS): Ensuring balanced braking even for less experienced riders.
Optional ABS: A first for the Splendor line, offering enhanced safety in challenging road conditions.
Wider Tires: Improving stability and grip, especially in wet conditions.
LED Lighting: Providing better visibility both day and night.
Efficiency Meets Performance: The i3s Advantage
Hero’s proprietary i3s (Idle Start-Stop System) technology has been further refined in the Splendor 135.
This system automatically shuts off the engine when idling and restarts it when the clutch is engaged, leading to fuel savings of up to 5-7% in real-world conditions.
It’s a small change that makes a big difference, especially for urban commuters constantly navigating through traffic.
Environmental Consciousness: Cleaner and Greener
In an era of increasing environmental awareness, the New Splendor 135 steps up to the plate:
BS6 Phase 2 Compliant: Meeting and exceeding the latest emission norms.
Eco Mode: A riding mode that optimizes fuel efficiency for those extra-long rides between fill-ups.
Start-Stop Technology: Reducing unnecessary idling and emissions in traffic.
The Ownership Experience: Beyond the Motorcycle
Hero MotoCorp understands that buying a Splendor is more than just purchasing a vehicle; it’s entering into a long-term relationship.
To that end, they’ve introduced several initiatives to enhance the ownership experience:
5-Year Warranty: An industry-leading warranty period, showcasing Hero’s confidence in their product.
Hero GoodLife Program: A loyalty program offering benefits like priority service, exclusive events, and special discounts.
Hero Joyride: A subscription-based program allowing customers to experience the Splendor 135 without the long-term commitment of ownership.
24×7 Roadside Assistance: Peace of mind for those unexpected moments.
Market Positioning and Competition
Priced competitively between ₹80,000 to ₹90,000 (ex-showroom), the New Splendor 135 positions itself as a premium commuter, bridging the gap between traditional 100-110cc motorcycles and the 150cc segment.
Its primary competitors include:
Honda SP 125
Bajaj Pulsar 125
TVS Raider 125
However, with its larger engine and advanced features, the Splendor 135 carves out a unique niche for itself, offering a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and technology.
The Road Ahead: Future-Proofing the Splendor Legacy
The introduction of the Splendor 135 is more than just a new model launch; it’s a statement of intent from Hero MotoCorp.
It showcases their commitment to innovation and their understanding of evolving consumer needs.
As India’s motorcycle market matures and riders seek more from their daily commuters, the Splendor 135 stands ready to meet those expectations.
Looking ahead, Hero has hinted at the possibility of alternative fuel versions, including a CNG variant and even an electric Splendor in the coming years.
These moves would further cement the Splendor’s position as a forward-thinking, environmentally conscious choice for the modern rider.
New Hero Splendor 135 : A New Chapter in an Iconic Story
The New Hero Splendor 135 is more than just another motorcycle; it’s a bold reimagining of what a commuter bike can be.
It respects its heritage while embracing the future, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology.
For the daily commuter, the weekend tourer, or the budget-conscious enthusiast, the Splendor 135 presents a compelling proposition.
As it hits the roads across India, the New Splendor 135 carries with it the hopes and expectations of millions of loyal fans.
If initial reactions are anything to go by, it seems poised to not just meet but exceed those expectations, writing a new chapter in the storied history of one of India’s most beloved motorcycle brands.
In a market flooded with options, the New Hero Splendor 135 stands out not just for what it is, but for what it represents – the evolution of a legend, ready to inspire a new generation of riders.
As it roars into the future, one thing is clear: the Splendor legacy is far from over. In fact, with the 135, it might just be getting started.