Hero Splendor Plus Review: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Iconic Commuter Bike

Bike Overview

The Hero Splendor Plus, a renowned name in the Indian commuter bike segment, has been a reliable companion for riders since its launch. Known for its fuel efficiency, durability, and affordability, the Splendor Plus has become a household name across the country. Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has continuously refined and updated this model to keep up with the evolving needs of riders. 

The latest iteration of the Splendor Plus boasts a sleek design, enhanced features, and improved performance, further solidifying its position as a top choice for commuters. In this comprehensive review, we will dive deep into the various aspects of the Hero Splendor Plus, examining its strengths and evaluating its value proposition in the highly competitive commuter bike market.

Design and Styling

The Hero Splendor Plus showcases a timeless design that appeals to a wide range of riders. The bike’s clean lines and classic proportions give it a simple yet elegant look. The updated model features a refreshed graphics scheme, adding a touch of modernity to its traditional aesthetic. The Splendor Plus is available in a range of attractive color options, allowing riders to choose a shade that best suits their style. 

While the bike’s design may not be as flashy as some of its competitors, its understated elegance is a testament to its long-standing popularity. The Splendor Plus is equipped with a halogen headlight, which provides adequate illumination for nighttime riding. The bulb-type tail light and indicators maintain the bike’s classic appeal while ensuring visibility on the road. Overall, the Hero Splendor Plus presents a well-balanced design that prioritizes functionality and simplicity.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Hero Splendor Plus lies an air-cooled, 97.2cc single-cylinder engine. This fuel-injected powerplant delivers a peak power output of 8.02 PS at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 8.05 Nm at 6,000 rpm. The engine is known for its refined performance and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for daily commutes and occasional long rides. The Splendor Plus offers a smooth and responsive throttle, ensuring a pleasant riding experience in city traffic conditions. 

The bike’s acceleration is adequate for its segment, allowing riders to navigate through congested streets with ease. The fuel injection system not only improves the bike’s performance but also contributes to its impressive fuel efficiency figures. With a fuel tank capacity of 9.8 liters, the Splendor Plus offers a substantial range, reducing the frequency of fuel stops during long journeys.

Features and Technology

The Hero Splendor Plus may not be equipped with cutting-edge technology, but it does offer a set of essential features that cater to the needs of commuters. The bike comes with an analog instrument cluster that displays basic information such as speed, fuel level, and odometer readings. The Splendor Plus also features a main stand indicator, which reminds riders to retract the main stand before riding, enhancing safety. The bike’s electrical system is reliable and low-maintenance, ensuring hassle-free ownership. 

While the Splendor Plus may lack advanced features like digital displays or smartphone connectivity, its simplicity and practicality appeal to riders who prioritize functionality over frills. The bike’s no-nonsense approach to features aligns with its target audience’s expectations, making it a popular choice among commuters.

Ride Quality and Handling

The Hero Splendor Plus offers a comfortable and stable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension setup. The telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers at the front and the swingarm with 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear work in harmony to absorb road undulations and provide a plush ride quality. 

The bike’s 165mm ground clearance is sufficient to tackle speed breakers and potholes commonly encountered on Indian roads. The Splendor Plus’s handling is predictable and easy to maneuver, making it an ideal choice for novice riders and experienced commuters alike. The bike’s lightweight chassis and nimble steering geometry contribute to its agility in city traffic. 

The Splendor Plus is equipped with drum brakes on both the front and rear wheels, which offer adequate stopping power for its segment. The bike’s ergonomics are designed for comfort, with a well-padded seat and an upright riding posture that minimizes fatigue during long rides.

Comparison with Competitors

In the highly competitive commuter bike segment, the Hero Splendor Plus faces stiff competition from rivals such as the Bajaj Platina and the TVS Star City Plus. When compared to the Bajaj Platina, the Splendor Plus offers a slightly more powerful engine and a more refined ride quality. However, the Platina has an edge in terms of fuel efficiency and comes equipped with a digital instrument cluster. 

The TVS Star City Plus, on the other hand, boasts a more modern design and offers features like a USB charging port and an engine kill switch. While the Star City Plus has a marginal advantage in terms of features, the Splendor Plus scores higher in terms of brand loyalty and after-sales service network. Ultimately, the Hero Splendor Plus holds its own against its competitors, offering a tried-and-tested package that prioritizes reliability and affordability.

Pricing and Value for Money

The Hero Splendor Plus is available in three variants, with prices ranging from Rs. 75,141 to Rs. 77,986 (ex-showroom). The base variant, the Splendor Plus Self with Alloy Wheel, is priced at Rs. 75,141, while the top-end variant, the Splendor Plus Self with Alloy Wheel and i3S, comes with a price tag of Rs. 77,986. 

The mid-range variant, the Splendor Plus Black and Accent, is priced at Rs. 76,486. Considering the bike’s reliable performance, low maintenance costs, and excellent fuel efficiency, the Hero Splendor Plus offers a compelling value proposition for commuters. The bike’s affordable pricing, combined with Hero MotoCorp’s extensive service network and easy availability of spare parts, makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. 

While the Splendor Plus may not be the most feature-rich bike in its segment, its unbeatable combination of affordability and practicality makes it a wise choice for daily commuting needs.

Conclusion

The Hero Splendor Plus is a true champion in the commuter bike segment, offering a perfect blend of reliability, affordability, and practicality. Its classic design, refined engine performance, and comfortable ride quality make it a popular choice among riders of all ages. While the bike may lack some of the advanced features found in its competitors, its simplicity and focus on the essentials are what make it a choice for millions of commuters across India. 

The Splendor Plus’s fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and Hero MotoCorp’s extensive service network further add to its appeal. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time rider, the Hero Splendor Plus is a dependable and cost-effective option that won’t disappoint. With its time-tested performance and unbeatable value for money, the Splendor Plus continues to rule the commuter bike market.