Hero MotoCorp has once again raised the bar with the launch of the Hero Splendor 135, an evolution that not only honors the legacy of India’s best-selling commuter motorcycle but propels it into a future of enhanced efficiency, contemporary styling, and practical technology. Let’s dive deep into why the Splendor 135 is being hailed as a game-changer for daily riders across India.
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Hero Splendor 135: Blending Economy with a Modern Aesthetic
The Hero Splendor 135 has been meticulously crafted to marry tradition with modernity. Hero’s design team, led by Rajiv Singh, embarked on a mission to retain the iconic Splendor identity while introducing a bold new visual language.
Gone are the flat tank designs and simplistic contours. Instead, we see a sculpted fuel tank with sharper edges and distinct knee recesses for better ergonomics. Functional side panels with angular air intakes aid in engine cooling without compromising on design. The front fascia is unmistakably new, boasting split LED headlamps and a redesigned grille that projects a signature light pattern recognizable even from a distance.
Color options have expanded dramatically. Besides the classic Black, Red, and Blue, Hero introduces dynamic gradient finishes — Dawn Orange to Crimson Red and Cosmos Blue to Midnight Black — providing youthful flair without abandoning the practical roots that Splendor riders value.
Unprecedented Fuel Efficiency: The 78 kmpl Revolution
Fuel efficiency has always been the cornerstone of commuter motorcycles, and Hero has shattered expectations by achieving a claimed 78 kilometers per liter for the Splendor 135 under standard test conditions.
This leap stems from a multitude of engineering advancements:
- New 134.8cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a higher 10.7:1 compression ratio.
- Micro-polished internal components and enhanced bearings to minimize mechanical drag.
- A refined Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system for precise fuel metering.
- An upgraded i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) that activates faster and more seamlessly, saving fuel during brief halts.
With a modest output of 11.5 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 11.8 Nm of torque at 4,500 RPM, the motorcycle ensures brisk city rides while maximizing real-world mileage close to 65-70 kmpl under varied conditions.
Hero Splendor 135: Practical Innovations Beyond the Engine
Hero has thoughtfully introduced features that enhance daily riding comfort and convenience without bloating the motorcycle with unnecessary gimmicks.
- Semi-digital instrument cluster: Analog tachometer paired with a digital display showing speed, gear position, fuel level, and real-time mileage.
- Distance-to-empty readout: A premium feature rare at this price point, aiding in planning refuels efficiently.
- Large 13-liter fuel tank: When combined with its efficiency, riders can theoretically cover over 1,000 kilometers on a full tank.
- USB charging port: Conveniently placed under the instrument cluster for smartphones and GPS devices.
- Tubeless tyres on alloy wheels: Enhances safety and reduces the inconvenience of punctures.
- Wider, more cushioned seat: With dual-density foam for superior comfort during long commutes.
- Integrated rear carrier: Designed to carry loads up to 15 kilograms without compromising handling.
Each of these additions directly addresses the needs of the Indian commuter, making the Splendor 135 not just another motorcycle, but an indispensable tool for daily life.
Functional Technology: Not Just Bells and Whistles
Hero MotoCorp has shown restraint and wisdom by integrating only those technologies that offer real value to the rider.
- Hero Connect platform: Available on higher variants, this connected tech offers trip analysis, vehicle tracking, and service alerts via a smartphone app.
- Full LED lighting system: Enhances visibility, reduces energy consumption, and contributes to overall fuel savings.
- Combined Braking System (CBS): Standard across all models, improving safety and braking efficiency.
- Optional 240mm front disc brake: For those who seek extra braking confidence.
By avoiding flashy but impractical features, Hero has focused squarely on practicality, safety, and cost-saving functionalities, ensuring that every aspect of the bike serves a tangible purpose.
Hero Splendor 135: Competitive Pricing and Market Impact
Hero has priced the Splendor 135 remarkably competitively:
- Base variant: ₹83,999 (ex-showroom Delhi)
- Top variant with Hero Connect and front disc brake: ₹92,499 (ex-showroom Delhi)
This strategic pricing places it approximately ₹10,000-₹12,000 above the standard Splendor+, a gap that is easily justifiable given the massive leap in technology, efficiency, and features.
In an era of rising fuel costs, the Splendor 135’s superior fuel economy positions it as the logical choice for cost-conscious Indian commuters. Market experts suggest that buyers can recoup the extra investment over the standard Splendor within 18 to 24 months of regular use, purely through fuel savings.
Ravi Bhatia, a leading automotive analyst, emphasizes, “Hero has reset the benchmarks for the commuter motorcycle segment. Competitors will have to fundamentally rethink their offerings if they want to stay relevant.“
With booking already open through Hero’s extensive dealership network, the Hero Splendor 135 is poised to become the next big chapter in Indian commuter motorcycling history.
