New Hero Splendor 125 : In the bustling streets of India, where motorcycles serve as the lifeline of daily commuting, a name has stood the test of time as a symbol of reliability and trust—Hero Splendor.
For decades, the Splendor nameplate has been synonymous with dependable transportation, fuel efficiency, and no-nonsense practicality.
Now, Hero MotoCorp has taken a bold step forward with the introduction of the new Splendor 125, elevating the iconic brand into premium territory while preserving the core values that made it a household name across the nation.
New Hero Splendor 125 The Evolution of an Icon
The story of the Splendor began in 1994, originally as the Hero Honda Splendor, serving as the successor to the CD100 and Sleek models. What followed was an unprecedented success story, with the motorcycle becoming the backbone of mobility for millions of Indians, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas.
Over time, the Splendor lineup expanded to include various engine capacities, from the original 97cc engine to the 110cc iSmart variant, and eventually the 125cc Super Splendor.
But the new Splendor 125 represents something more significant—a strategic pivot that acknowledges the evolving expectations of today’s commuter segment.
It’s a recognition that the modern rider demands more than just basic transportation; they seek style, features, and performance alongside practical benefits like fuel efficiency and reliability.
Design: Premium Aesthetics Meet Practical Functionality
The new Hero Splendor 125 makes a statement the moment you lay eyes on it. While maintaining the recognizable silhouette that has become ingrained in India’s collective consciousness, Hero’s designers have infused the bike with contemporary styling elements that elevate its visual appeal.
The front end sports a sleek LED headlamp assembly with distinctive position lamps that create a unique light signature, ensuring the bike stands out even from a distance.
The fuel tank retains its characteristic shape but now features more pronounced contours and premium graphics that add visual interest without overwhelming the classic design.
Chrome accents are tastefully applied across various components—from the headlamp bezel to the side panel emblems—enhancing the premium feel without appearing gaudy.
The side panels have been redesigned with sharper lines and more defined surfaces, creating engaging plays of light and shadow that make the motorcycle appear more substantial than its predecessors.
Other notable design elements include:
A redesigned seat with improved comfort and premium stitching
Sleek tail lamp with LED elements for better visibility
Newly designed alloy wheels with a premium finish
Body-colored grab rails that integrate seamlessly with the overall design
Refined switchgear with improved tactile feedback
The color palette has been carefully curated to appeal to a broader audience, with options ranging from sophisticated solid colors to more vibrant dual-tone schemes. The premium finish and attention to detail throughout the motorcycle elevate it beyond the utilitarian image of traditional commuters.
Heart of the Matter: Performance and Efficiency
Underneath the stylish exterior lies the beating heart of the new Splendor 125—a refined 125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers a perfect balance of performance and efficiency.
The engine produces approximately 10.7 bhp of maximum power at 7,500 rpm and 10.6 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm.
While these figures might seem modest on paper, they translate to impressive real-world performance. The Splendor 125 accelerates confidently from a standstill, with enough torque in the low and mid-range to navigate city traffic effortlessly.
The power delivery is linear and predictable, making the bike accessible to riders of all experience levels.
The 5-speed transmission offers precise shifts and well-spaced ratios, allowing the engine to operate in its sweet spot whether crawling through congested streets or cruising on open roads.
The addition of the fifth gear—compared to the four-speed gearboxes found on smaller Splendor variants—provides a more relaxed riding experience at highway speeds, with reduced engine noise and vibration.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Splendor 125’s powertrain is its remarkable fuel efficiency. Despite the increased displacement and performance, the motorcycle achieves an astounding fuel economy figure of approximately 75-80 kilometers per liter under ideal conditions, with real-world efficiency hovering around 65-70 km/l.
This exceptional efficiency is made possible by Hero’s proprietary XSens fuel injection technology, which optimizes the air-fuel mixture across various operating conditions.
Comfort and Handling: Everyday Usability Redefined
The Splendor 125 has been engineered with comfort as a primary consideration, reflecting an understanding of the diverse road conditions encountered by Indian riders.
The chassis provides a perfect balance of stability and agility, with the diamond frame offering improved structural rigidity compared to the double cradle frame used in some older models.
Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front with 120mm of travel, which absorb road imperfections admirably. The rear features twin shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload, allowing riders to tailor the setup according to their weight and riding conditions.
The ergonomics have been carefully calibrated to accommodate riders of various heights. The seat height of approximately 799mm makes it accessible to shorter riders, while the well-padded seat provides adequate support for both rider and pillion during extended journeys.
The handlebar position has been optimized to reduce rider fatigue, allowing for a natural, upright riding posture that remains comfortable even after hours in the saddle.
The 18-inch wheels (a traditional Splendor hallmark) provide stability over uneven surfaces, while the ground clearance of approximately 180mm ensures confident navigation over speed breakers and potholes that are all too common on Indian roads.
Technology and Features: Modern Conveniences for Today’s Rider
While maintaining the simplicity that defines the Splendor DNA, the new 125cc variant incorporates several technological features that enhance the overall ownership experience:
Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: Combining an analog speedometer with a digital display that shows fuel level, odometer, trip meter, and real-time fuel efficiency.
LED Lighting: Energy-efficient LED headlamps and tail lamps that provide superior illumination compared to conventional halogen units.
USB Charging Port: Integrated charging solution for keeping mobile devices powered on the go.
i3S Technology: Hero’s intelligent Start-Stop System that automatically shuts off the engine when idling and restarts it when the clutch is engaged, further improving fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
Combined Braking System (CBS): Enhances braking performance by distributing braking force between the front and rear wheels, improving safety particularly for less experienced riders.
Side-Stand Indicator: Visual and audible warning when the side stand is deployed, preventing potential accidents.
Pricing Strategy and Market Positioning
The Splendor 125’s pricing strategy reveals Hero MotoCorp’s nuanced understanding of the Indian motorcycle market. Available in three distinct variants—Standard, Executive, and Premium—the motorcycle is priced between ₹89,999 and ₹97,999 (ex-showroom), positioning it strategically between basic 100-110cc commuters and more aspirational 150cc+ machines.
| Variant | Price (Ex-showroom) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | ₹89,999 | Basic instrument cluster, drum brakes, steel wheels |
| Executive | ₹93,999 | Digital-analog display, alloy wheels, i3S technology |
| Premium | ₹97,999 | Full LED lighting, front disc brake, premium graphics |
This tiered approach allows customers to select the configuration that best matches their requirements and budget, without forcing them to pay for features they may not need or compromise on essentials they value.
The pricing represents a premium over the traditional Splendor models but remains accessible to the target audience of upgrading commuters and first-time buyers seeking a more premium offering.
When compared to competitors like the Honda SP 125 (approximately ₹89,468) or the TVS Raider 125 (approximately ₹80,848), the Splendor 125 justifies its positioning through its blend of premium aesthetics, trusted reliability, and exceptional fuel efficiency.
Target Audience: The New-Age Commuter
The Splendor 125 has been carefully crafted to appeal to a diverse audience that spans both traditional Splendor loyalists and new-generation riders who might otherwise be drawn to more premium offerings. The primary target segments include:
Young Urban Professionals: Those seeking a reliable daily commuter with modern styling and features for navigating city traffic.
College Students: First-time motorcycle buyers who desire a blend of style, efficiency, and affordability.
Upgrading Commuter Riders: Existing small-displacement motorcycle owners looking to step up to a more premium offering without sacrificing practicality.
Rural Premium Seekers: Customers in semi-urban and rural areas who want a motorcycle that offers both practicality for rural conditions and status through its premium appearance.
Family Transportation: Those needing a dependable motorcycle for family use, with comfort for both rider and pillion.
Ownership Experience: Beyond the Product
Hero MotoCorp’s extensive sales and service network—spanning over 6,000 touchpoints across India—provides unparalleled accessibility and peace of mind for Splendor 125 owners.
This network ensures that parts and service are readily available even in remote areas, addressing a critical aspect of motorcycle ownership in India.
The company’s comprehensive warranty package covers the motorcycle for three years or 30,000 kilometers, whichever comes first, demonstrating confidence in the product’s reliability. Additional roadside assistance programs are available for further peace of mind, particularly for those who undertake longer journeys.
Maintenance costs remain remarkably low, in keeping with the Splendor tradition. The service intervals are set at 3,000 kilometers, with major services required only every 6,000 kilometers.
The simplicity of the air-cooled engine and conventional components means that routine maintenance can be performed quickly and affordably, keeping the total cost of ownership competitive despite the more premium initial purchase price.
Real-World Performance: Living with the Splendor 125
While the specifications and features tell part of the story, the true measure of any motorcycle is how it performs in everyday use. The Splendor 125 excels in several key areas that matter most to commuter motorcyclists:
Fuel Efficiency and Range
With its remarkable fuel economy of 65-70 km/l in real-world conditions and a 12-liter fuel tank, the Splendor 125 offers an impressive range of approximately 780-840 kilometers on a single tank. This translates to fewer fuel stops and significant savings for daily commuters, with an estimated running cost of just ₹1-2 per kilometer.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The thoughtfully designed ergonomics make the Splendor 125 exceptionally comfortable for riders of various heights. The neutral riding position reduces fatigue during extended journeys, while the well-padded seat provides adequate support for both rider and pillion.
The suspension tuning strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, absorbing road imperfections without feeling overly soft.
Performance and Handling
Despite its commuter positioning, the Splendor 125 offers surprisingly capable performance with a top speed of approximately 95 km/h and 0-60 km/h acceleration in under 6 seconds.
These figures ensure confident highway merging and overtaking ability when needed. The handling is predictable and reassuring, with the motorcycle feeling planted at all speeds and nimble enough for navigating tight urban spaces.
Reliability and Durability
Early reports suggest that the Splendor 125 maintains the legendary reliability that has defined the nameplate for decades. The robust construction and high-quality components are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in challenging conditions, promising years of trouble-free operation with proper maintenance.
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The introduction of the Splendor 125 represents Hero MotoCorp’s most significant strategic move in recent years, perfectly timed to capture upgrading customers looking for more performance without sacrificing the reliability and economy that attracted them to the brand initially.
Industry analysts project that the Splendor 125 could potentially reshape the 125cc commuter segment, which has traditionally been dominated by models like the Honda CB Shine and Bajaj Pulsar 125.
By leveraging the immense brand equity of the Splendor name while offering genuinely premium features and performance, Hero has created a compelling proposition that appeals to both practical considerations and emotional desires.
The early market response has been overwhelmingly positive, with booking inquiries flooding dealerships nationwide even before official price announcements.
This enthusiasm suggests that the Splendor 125 could continue the namesake’s sales success, appealing to a broader audience without alienating the loyal customer base.
Key Takeaways: Why the Splendor 125 Matters
Strategic Evolution: The Splendor 125 represents a thoughtful evolution of India’s most trusted motorcycle nameplate, preserving core values while embracing modern expectations.
Premium without Pretension: It offers genuine premium features and aesthetics without abandoning the practicality and accessibility that defined the original Splendor.
Balanced Performance: The powertrain delivers the perfect balance of performance and efficiency, with enough capability for confident riding without excessive power that would compromise fuel economy.
Thoughtful Design: Every aspect of the motorcycle has been carefully considered, from the ergonomics to the feature set, resulting in a cohesive product that excels in real-world conditions.
Value Proposition: Despite its premium positioning, the Splendor 125 offers excellent value through its combination of quality, features, efficiency, and the peace of mind that comes with the trusted Hero network.
New Hero Splendor 125 Conclusion: A New Chapter in the Splendor Legacy
The Hero Splendor 125 successfully transforms a utilitarian nameplate into an aspirational product without abandoning the core values that made the original a phenomenon across India.
By addressing the evolving expectations of today’s commuter segment while maintaining the legendary reliability and efficiency, Hero has created a motorcycle that appeals to both practical considerations and emotional desires.
The thoughtful balance of premium aesthetics, modern features, and genuine utility at accessible price points suggests the Splendor 125 will continue the namesake’s sales success, appealing to a broader audience without alienating the loyal customer base.
For riders seeking excellent mileage without sacrificing style or settling for stripped-down transportation, the Hero Splendor 125 represents perhaps the most compelling option in today’s crowded commuter motorcycle market.
As Hero MotoCorp continues to navigate the changing landscape of India’s two-wheeler market, the Splendor 125 stands as a testament to the company’s understanding of its customers and its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
In doing so, it ensures that the Splendor legacy will continue to thrive for decades to come, touching the lives of millions more Indians seeking reliable, efficient, and now, premium mobility solutions.