For decades, the Hero Splendor has been more than just a motorcycle in India – it’s been a faithful companion on countless journeys, a family’s first major purchase, and a reliable breadwinner for millions. Now, Hero MotoCorp has given this beloved icon its most significant upgrade with the new Splendor 135, thoughtfully enhancing what matters while preserving the motorcycle’s soul.
Power That Makes Sense
The most noticeable change is right in the name – a bigger 134.5cc engine that delivers 11.5 horsepower and 11.4 Nm of torque. These numbers might seem modest to enthusiasts, but they represent a meaningful 30% increase over traditional Splendor models.
What’s impressive isn’t just raw power but how it’s delivered. The engine provides extra strength exactly where everyday riders need it – when carrying passengers, climbing hills, or maintaining steady highway speeds. The new 5-speed gearbox (replacing the old 4-speed) makes cruising at 70-80 km/h effortless while keeping the legendary fuel efficiency that Splendor owners expect – still delivering an impressive 60+ kilometers per liter.
Practical Improvements, Not Flashy Gimmicks
Hero has made smart upgrades throughout the motorcycle without adding unnecessary complications. The frame has been strengthened at key points, the front fork is slightly thicker for better stability, and the brakes are more powerful while maintaining their predictable feel.
The ground clearance remains a practical 180mm – perfect for navigating rough roads and monsoon-flooded streets. The wheelbase strikes the right balance between stability on highways and maneuverability in crowded city traffic.
Modern Touches with Traditional Reliability
The Splendor 135 looks familiar but fresher, with more sculpted body panels and contemporary graphics that don’t stray too far from its recognizable silhouette. LED daytime running lights add a modern touch while improving visibility, and the fuel tank features better knee recesses for improved comfort on longer rides.
The instrument panel now combines analog and digital displays, showing useful information like real-time fuel efficiency and gear position. A USB charging port acknowledges our connected lives, while select models feature Hero’s i3S technology that automatically stops and restarts the engine at traffic lights to save fuel.
Beyond the Motorcycle
What truly sets the Splendor 135 apart is Hero’s understanding that ownership experience matters as much as the product itself. With service centers reaching remote areas, standardized maintenance procedures, readily available parts, and extended warranty coverage, the company ensures that choosing a Splendor remains not just an emotional decision but a practical one.
The Hero Splendor 135 proves that progress doesn’t require reinvention – sometimes it means thoughtfully improving what already works. For millions of Indians who depend on their motorcycles daily, this balanced evolution ensures the Splendor legend continues for generations to come.