Introduction:
The Hero Splendor Plus is one of the most popular commuter motorcycles in India. First introduced in 1994, the Splendor series has been a consistent best-seller for Hero MotoCorp, the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in the world. The Splendor Plus is the latest iteration of the iconic motorcycle and has received several updates over the years to keep up with changing market trends and customer demands. In this article, we will explore the history, features, and performance of the Hero Splendor Plus.
History:
The Hero Splendor series was first launched in 1994 and has since been a dominant force in the Indian two-wheeler market. The Splendor Plus was introduced in 2007 and has undergone several updates since then. In 2020, Hero MotoCorp launched the BS6-compliant version of the Splendor Plus, which features a fuel-injected engine and other upgrades to meet the stricter emission norms.
Design and Features:
The Hero Splendor Plus has a simple and elegant design that appeals to a wide range of customers. It has a sleek body with a classic round headlamp and a blacked-out engine. The bike is available in several color options, including black with silver, black with purple, red with black, and blue with black. The Splendor Plus also features a semi-digital instrument console that displays essential information like speed, fuel level, and odometer.
One of the standout features of the Splendor Plus is its comfortable and spacious seat, which can easily accommodate two riders. The bike also has an ergonomic handlebar and footpegs that offer a comfortable riding position, even on long journeys. Other notable features of the Splendor Plus include a side-stand indicator, tubeless tires, and a maintenance-free battery.
Engine and Performance:
The Hero Splendor Plus is powered by a 97.2cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces a maximum power of 7.91 bhp at 8,000 rpm and a peak torque of 8.05 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The engine is paired with a four-speed constant mesh gearbox that offers smooth and precise shifts. The bike has a top speed of around 90 km/h and can go from 0 to 60 km/h in around 7.5 seconds.
The Splendor Plus has a fuel tank capacity of 9.8 liters and delivers a mileage of around 70 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in India. The bike also features Hero’s i3S technology, which automatically switches off the engine when the bike is idling for more than 5 seconds, helping to conserve fuel.
Riding Experience:
The Hero Splendor Plus offers a comfortable and smooth riding experience, thanks to its refined engine and well-tuned suspension. The bike is easy to handle and maneuver, making it ideal for both city and highway riding. The brakes are responsive, and the bike comes to a stop quickly and safely.
The Splendor Plus also offers a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. It has enough power to tackle city traffic and handle highway speeds, while still delivering impressive fuel economy. The bike is also quite lightweight, weighing just 110 kg, which makes it easy to handle and park.
Pricing and Competition:
The Hero Splendor Plus price competitively and is one of the most affordable motorcycles in its segment. The bike is available in two variants, the kick-start version, which is priced at around Rs. 62,000, and the self-start version, which is priced at around Rs. 65,000. The Splendor Plus faces stiff competition from other popular commuter motorcycles in India, such as the Bajaj CT 100, TVS Radeon, Honda CD 110 Dream, and the Yamaha Saluto RX.
Conclusion:
The Hero Splendor Plus has been a reliable and popular choice for Indian commuters for over two decades. It has undergone several updates and improvements over the years, but it has always retained its core values of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The bike is ideal for daily commuting and offers a comfortable and smooth riding experience. It also boasts a classic design that appeals to a wide range of customers. With its competitive pricing and impressive features, the Hero Splendor Plus continues to be a top choice for Indian motorcycle buyers.