The Timeless Icon: Hero Splendor’s Features Redefined in 2025
Hero Splendor: In the bustling streets of India, where two-wheelers are more than just vehicles—they’re lifelines for millions—the Hero Splendor stands as an enduring symbol of reliability, affordability, and unyielding performance. Since its debut in 1994 as the Hero Honda Splendor, this 100cc commuter has clocked over 125 million units sold, making it the best-selling motorcycle in the country’s history. Fast-forward to October 2025, and the Splendor isn’t just surviving; it’s evolving. The 2025 lineup, including the refreshed Splendor Plus and the tech-infused Splendor Plus XTEC, introduces subtle yet significant updates that blend classic charm with modern necessities. From OBD-2B compliant engines to Bluetooth connectivity, the Hero Splendor continues to cater to the everyday commuter who demands fuel efficiency without compromising on safety or style. In this article, we dive deep into the features that keep the Splendor at the forefront of the 100cc segment, exploring why it’s still the go-to choice for urban hustlers and rural road warriors alike.
A Legacy of Simplicity and Strength: Design and Build
At its core, the Hero Splendor has always been about no-frills functionality wrapped in a design that’s as practical as it is iconic. The 2025 model retains this philosophy but adds a dash of contemporary flair. Measuring 2000mm in length with a wheelbase of 1273mm, the bike’s compact footprint makes it ideal for weaving through congested city traffic or navigating narrow village lanes. Its tubular double cradle frame, weighing in at a featherlight 112kg, ensures effortless handling, whether you’re a novice rider or a seasoned daily commuter.
What sets the 2025 Splendor apart visually is its updated aesthetics. Gone are the dated lines; in their place are streamlined body panels with sharper graphics that give the bike a sportier edge. The side panels now feature dynamic decals in dual-tone schemes, enhancing its road presence without altering the familiar silhouette. Available in six vibrant colors for the Splendor Plus XTEC—Nobel Red, Matte Grey, Black Heavy Grey, Red Black, Black Tornado Grey, and Black Sparking Blue—these options appeal to younger riders seeking personalization. The classic boxy headlamp has been upgraded to an LED unit in higher variants, casting a brighter, more energy-efficient beam for safer night rides. The elongated 765mm seat, upholstered in durable vinyl, comfortably accommodates a pillion, making it family-friendly for short errands or school runs.
Ergonomics remain a highlight. The upright riding posture, with handlebars at an accessible height and footpegs positioned for relaxed legroom, minimizes fatigue on long commutes. The 2025 model’s aerodynamic tweaks—subtle fairing edges and a tapered fuel tank—reduce wind resistance, contributing to better stability at speeds up to 85kmph. For those in flood-prone areas, the 165mm ground clearance is a boon, allowing the bike to tackle waterlogged roads with ease. Overall, the design philosophy is evolutionary rather than revolutionary, ensuring the Splendor feels familiar yet fresh in 2025.
Power That Delivers: Engine and Performance Features
Under the hood, the Hero Splendor’s 97.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder SOHC 2-valve engine is the beating heart that has powered generations. In its 2025 iteration, this workhorse has been recalibrated to meet the stringent Phase II OBD-2B (On-Board Diagnostics) norms, which monitor real-time emissions for a greener footprint. Producing 7.91 bhp at 8000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm, the engine mates seamlessly with a constant mesh 4-speed gearbox, delivering smooth gear shifts via a cable-operated clutch.
What truly elevates the performance is Hero’s proprietary xSens Fuel Injection (FI) technology. This programmed FI system optimizes air-fuel mixture in real-time, ensuring consistent power delivery across varying loads and altitudes. Riders report a linear acceleration from 0-60kmph in under 12 seconds, perfect for stop-start urban traffic. The engine’s refined internals—updated pistons and ECU mapping—reduce vibrations, making highway cruises at 70kmph feel effortless and vibration-free.
Fuel efficiency, the Splendor’s crown jewel, clocks in at an ARAI-certified 70-80 kmpl, with real-world figures often hitting 83 kmpl in mixed conditions. This is largely thanks to the i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology, a standout feature across variants. When the bike idles for more than 10 seconds—like at red lights or railway crossings—the engine automatically shuts off, restarting instantly with a clutch pull. This simple innovation saves up to 10% on fuel in congested scenarios, translating to fewer trips to the pump and lower running costs. With a 9.8-liter fuel tank, you can cover over 700km on a full tank, making it an economic powerhouse for budget-conscious families.
For the Splendor Plus XTEC 2.0 variant, performance gets a tech boost. The engine integrates seamlessly with the bike’s digital cluster, providing instant feedback on throttle response. Whether hauling a pillion up a steep incline or idling in peak-hour jams, the Splendor’s engine proves why it’s trusted for over 30 years—reliable, responsive, and remarkably frugal.
Safety First: Braking and Handling Innovations
In an era where safety is non-negotiable, the 2025 Hero Splendor steps up with features that prioritize rider protection without inflating the price tag. All variants come standard with the Integrated Braking System (IBS), a single-lever mechanism that distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels. This reduces skidding risks, especially on wet or uneven surfaces, and shortens stopping distances by up to 30% compared to independent brakes.
Braking hardware includes 130mm drum units on both ends for the base Drum Brake variant, offering progressive bite and fade-resistant performance. For those seeking more bite, the Splendor Plus XTEC Disc Brake upgrades the front to a 240mm petal disc, paired with a rear drum, ideal for aggressive city riding. Tubeless tires—80/100-18 at the front and 80/100-18 at the rear—enhance puncture resistance and grip, rolling on cast alloy wheels that minimize unsprung weight for nimbler handling.
Suspension duties are handled by telescopic hydraulic forks upfront, providing 135mm of plush travel to soak up potholes, and 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. This setup allows riders to tweak preload for solo spins or loaded runs, ensuring a balanced ride over diverse terrains. Additional safety touches include a side-stand engine cut-off switch and a pass light for visibility. In crash tests simulated by industry standards, the Splendor’s robust frame and low center of gravity contribute to a high stability score, making it a safe bet for inexperienced riders.
Tech-Savvy Upgrades: Features for the Modern Commuter
The 2025 Splendor sheds its basic image with intelligent features that bridge the gap between tradition and technology. The Splendor Plus XTEC introduces a semi-digital instrument cluster, displaying essentials like speed, odometer, trip meter, and fuel gauge on an LCD screen. The top-spec XTEC 2.0 takes it further with a fully digital-analogue console and Bluetooth connectivity via Hero’s MotoCorp app. This allows turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and ride analytics—perfect for delivery pros tracking routes or families sharing location pings.
Convenience features abound: a USB charging port keeps phones juiced during long rides, while the electric self-start ensures hassle-free mornings. The AHO (Automatic Headlamp On) function complies with regulations and boosts nighttime visibility. For maintenance ease, the OBD-2B port enables quick diagnostics at Hero’s widespread network of over 6,000 service centers. These tech integrations don’t overwhelm; they enhance the Splendor’s core appeal, making it smarter without complicating daily use.
Variants and Value: Tailored for Every Rider
The 2025 Hero Splendor lineup spans six trims, starting with the no-frills Splendor Plus Drum Brake at ₹79,096 (ex-showroom) and topping out at the feature-packed XTEC 2.0 Drum Brake at ₹85,001. The XTEC Disc variant adds ₹2,000 for upgraded stopping power. Priced competitively against rivals like the Honda Shine 100 (₹64,900, 55 kmpl) and Bajaj Platina 100 (70 kmpl), the Splendor offers superior mileage and service accessibility. On-road prices in Delhi hover around ₹93,000-₹1.03 lakh, including insurance and RTO, with festive discounts potentially shaving off ₹2,000-₹5,000.
Why the Hero Splendor Endures: A Verdict on Features and Future
In 2025, the Hero Splendor isn’t chasing sporty thrills or premium gadgets—it’s perfecting the art of everyday excellence. Its features—a peppy 97.2cc engine with i3S and xSens, robust IBS braking, adjustable suspension, and Bluetooth smarts—deliver unmatched value for under ₹85,000. With 294,246 units sold in August alone, it outsells competitors by margins that underscore its trust factor. For the daily commuter battling fuel prices and traffic woes, the Splendor is more than a bike; it’s a dependable partner.
As India accelerates toward electric mobility, Hero’s commitment to refining ICE commuters like the Splendor ensures it remains relevant. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading from an older model, its blend of efficiency, safety, and simplicity makes it a wise investment. Head to a Hero dealership for a test ride—the road ahead has never felt more promising.