In the bustling streets of Indian cities, where traffic weaves like intricate tapestry and time seems to race against itself, one constant remains—the distinct put-put of a Hero Splendor navigating through the urban maze. This isn’t just another motorcycle; it’s a legacy that bridges generations, a trusted companion that has earned its place in millions of Indian households.
A Heritage That Spans Generations
“My father rode a Splendor, I ride a Splendor, and perhaps my son will too,” says Rajan Mehra, a 40-year-old government employee from Lucknow, echoing a sentiment shared across the country. This simple statement captures the extraordinary journey of a motorcycle that has transformed from mere transportation to a cultural institution.
In countless homes across India, the Splendor represents more than just mobility—it symbolizes reliability, practicality, and smart economics. It’s the silent workhorse that doesn’t demand attention but consistently delivers performance when needed most.
Economy That Makes Sense
Starting at approximately ₹74,900 for the base model and ranging up to ₹86,100 for the feature-rich Xtec variant, the Splendor continues to present one of the most compelling value propositions in Indian transportation.
“When you calculate the total cost of ownership—purchase price, maintenance, fuel efficiency—few vehicles can match what the Splendor offers,” explains Vikrant Singh, a financial consultant specializing in middle-class economics. “It’s not just about the initial price tag; it’s about what you spend over five years of ownership.”
Evolving Without Losing Identity
The 2025 lineup demonstrates Hero’s remarkable ability to modernize while preserving the core attributes that made the Splendor a household name. Despite increasingly stringent emission standards, the engineering team has managed to maintain—and in some cases improve—the legendary fuel efficiency that consumers expect.
The integration of XSens technology with its network of sensors continuously optimizes performance based on riding conditions, proving that beneath its simple exterior lies sophisticated engineering that keeps pace with changing regulations without compromising its fundamental appeal.
Beyond Specifications: The Lived Experience
What specification sheets fail to capture is the everyday experience of Splendor ownership. With its modest 785mm seat height and lightweight 112kg frame, the Splendor offers accessibility that welcomes riders of all sizes and experience levels.
“The upright riding position makes it comfortable for long commutes, unlike many premium bikes that look impressive but leave you aching after half an hour,” notes Priya Verma, a motorcycle instructor specializing in teaching women riders. “This approachability is a huge factor in its sustained popularity.”
Standing Strong Against Competition
The 100cc commuter segment has seen numerous challengers enter the arena, with competitors like Honda Shine 100, TVS Radeon, and Bajaj CT110 offering modern styling and additional features at comparable price points.
Yet, as Mohinder Garg, a multi-brand motorcycle dealer in Punjab observes, “New competitors arrive with flashy features or contemporary designs, but the Splendor continues to dominate sales. When customers consider long-term ownership costs rather than just the feature list, the Splendor almost always comes out ahead.”
Proven in Adversity
The true character of any vehicle reveals itself under challenging conditions. In a comparative study conducted during last year’s monsoon season, the Splendor was tested alongside three competitors on waterlogged roads and potholed highways—conditions familiar to many Indian riders.
“After two weeks of deliberately punishing testing, the Splendor maintained nearly 90% of its normal fuel efficiency while others struggled significantly,” reported the study. “Its reliability under adverse conditions showed why it has remained the preferred choice for decades.”
Navigating Future Roads
As India’s automotive landscape gradually shifts toward electrification, questions naturally arise about the future relevance of conventional platforms like the Splendor. Industry experts predict that while premium segments may transition quickly to electric alternatives, the evolution in the commuter segment will likely be more measured, with price sensitivity and infrastructure limitations playing crucial roles.
The Splendor’s journey continues, adapting to changing times while remaining true to its core promise—reliable, economical transportation that gets you where you need to go, day after day, year after year, generation after generation.
