In a move that has taken the Indian two-wheeler market by storm, Hero MotoCorp has unveiled its latest offering – the Hero Splendor 135.
This bold step marks a significant departure from the traditional Splendor lineup, known for its reliable 100cc and 110cc engines.
The introduction of the Splendor 135 signals Hero’s intent to bridge the gap between entry-level commuters and more powerful 150cc motorcycles, potentially redefining the commuter segment in India.
The Legacy of Splendor
Before delving into the specifics of the new Splendor 135, it’s crucial to understand the iconic status of the Splendor series in India.
Since its introduction in 1994, the Splendor has been a household name, synonymous with reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs.
It has consistently ranked among the best-selling motorcycles globally, with millions of units sold over the years.
The Splendor’s success lies in its ability to meet the needs of the average Indian commuter – providing affordable, dependable transportation for daily use.
With the new Splendor 135, Hero MotoCorp aims to build upon this legacy while addressing the evolving needs of modern riders.
Engine and Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
At the heart of the Hero Splendor 135 lies a newly developed 134.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This powerplant represents a significant leap forward from the traditional Splendor engines:
Engine Displacement: 134.2cc
Power Output: 11.5 PS @ 7500 rpm
Torque: 11.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
The engine incorporates Hero’s latest technological advancements, including:
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) for optimal fuel delivery and efficiency
Advanced Tumble Flow Induction Technology for improved combustion
Integrated starter generator for quiet and quick starts
Hero claims a remarkable fuel efficiency of 65 km/l under standard testing conditions, maintaining the Splendor’s reputation for excellent mileage despite the increase in engine capacity.
If these figures hold up in real-world conditions, the Splendor 135 could set a new benchmark for fuel efficiency in its class.
Design and Aesthetics: Evolution, Not Revolution
The design of the new Splendor 135 strikes a delicate balance between familiarity and modernity. Hero’s design team has managed to retain the iconic Splendor silhouette while incorporating contemporary elements:
Sleek, angular headlamp with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
Redesigned fuel tank with sharper lines and knee recesses for better ergonomics
New side panels with bold graphics and 3D Splendor branding
LED tail lamp with a distinctive light signature
Sporty alloy wheels with a machined finish (on higher variants)
The overall design language speaks to a more youthful and dynamic audience without alienating the traditional Splendor loyalists.
It’s a visual representation of the bike’s positioning – a bridge between the conventional commuter and the more aspirational 150cc segment.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Designed for Indian Roads
Recognizing that many riders spend hours on their motorcycles navigating through diverse road conditions, Hero has paid special attention to comfort and ergonomics in the Splendor 135:
Longer, wider seat with enhanced cushioning and a new contour for better weight distribution
Slightly raised handlebar for an upright riding position, reducing strain on long rides
Telescopic front forks and 5-step adjustable rear suspension for improved ride quality
Ground clearance of 180mm, ideal for tackling rough roads and speed breakers
These features combine to create a riding experience that remains comfortable even on longer journeys or challenging road conditions, addressing one of the key concerns of daily commuters.
Technology and Features: A Smart Commuter
The Hero Splendor 135 comes equipped with a host of features that set it apart in its segment:
Fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity
Turn-by-turn navigation through Hero’s smartphone app
Real-time mileage indicator and range estimation
USB charging port for on-the-go device charging
Side-stand engine cut-off feature for added safety
Silent start system with integrated starter generator
These tech-forward additions not only enhance the riding experience but also add a layer of convenience and safety that today’s riders have come to expect from their vehicles.
Safety First: Prioritizing Rider Protection
Safety has been a key focus area in the development of the Splendor 135. Standard safety features include:
Single-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on the front wheel
Combi-Brake System (CBS) for balanced braking
Tubeless tires for better puncture resistance
High-intensity multi-reflector headlamp for improved visibility
Engine kill switch for emergency situations
The inclusion of ABS, even if only on the front wheel, is a significant step forward for a motorcycle in this segment, showcasing Hero’s commitment to rider safety.
Market Positioning and Competition
The Hero Splendor 135 enters a unique space in the Indian motorcycle market. It positions itself between the 110-125cc commuters and the more powerful 150cc motorcycles.
This strategic placement allows Hero to target riders looking for an upgrade from their current commuters without making the significant jump to a 150cc bike.
Priced between ₹75,000 to ₹85,000 (ex-showroom), the Splendor 135 offers a compelling value proposition. It competes indirectly with motorcycles like the Honda SP 125, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and TVS Raider, while also potentially drawing customers who might have been considering entry-level 150cc bikes.
Hero MotoCorp’s extensive sales and service network gives the Splendor 135 a significant advantage, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities where after-sales support can be a crucial factor in purchase decisions.
Production and Availability
The Hero Splendor 135 is being manufactured at Hero MotoCorp’s state-of-the-art facility in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The company has invested in advanced robotics and quality control measures to ensure consistent production quality for this new model.
Hero has announced that the Splendor 135 will be available across its vast dealership network, which covers over 6,000 touch points across India.
The company is also offering attractive financing options, including low down-payment schemes and extended warranty packages, to make the Splendor 135 more accessible to a wider range of customers.
Environmental Considerations
In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, Hero has taken several steps to make the Splendor 135 more eco-friendly:
BS6 compliant engine with reduced emissions
Use of recyclable materials in manufacturing
Improved fuel efficiency to reduce overall carbon footprint
Hero MotoCorp has also hinted at plans for an electric version of the Splendor in the future, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
Reception and Early Reviews
The launch of the Hero Splendor 135 has generated considerable buzz in the Indian automotive media. Early reviews have been largely positive, with praise for the motorcycle’s refined engine, comfortable ride, and feature list.
Motorcycle journalist Vikram Sharma notes, “The Splendor 135 feels like a significant evolution of the Splendor brand.
It retains the core values of reliability and efficiency while offering a more engaging ride and modern features. It could be the perfect upgrade for existing Splendor owners looking for more without straying too far from familiar territory.”
However, some reviewers have pointed out that the pricing of higher variants brings the Splendor 135 close to more powerful 150cc motorcycles, which might pose a dilemma for some buyers.
Impact on Hero MotoCorp’s Market Share
The Splendor series has been the backbone of Hero MotoCorp’s sales for decades. With the new Splendor 135, the company aims to not only retain its existing customer base but also attract new buyers who might have been considering slightly more premium options.
Industry analysts predict that the Splendor 135 could help Hero MotoCorp consolidate its position in the commuter segment while also gaining a foothold in the more premium commuter space.
This move is seen as a strategic step to counter the increasing competition from rivals who have been introducing more powerful and feature-rich commuter motorcycles.
The Future of Commuter Motorcycles in India
The launch of the Hero Splendor 135 comes at an interesting time for the Indian two-wheeler market. While there’s a growing trend towards premium and performance-oriented motorcycles, the commuter segment continues to be the backbone of the industry.
Hero MotoCorp’s introduction of a more powerful Splendor signals a potential shift in the commuter segment. It suggests that Indian riders are ready for more performance from their everyday motorcycles without compromising on the core values of efficiency and reliability.
Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman of Hero MotoCorp, stated in a recent interview, “The Splendor 135 represents our vision for the future of commuter motorcycles in India.
It’s a product that respects our heritage while embracing the future. We believe it will set new benchmarks in the industry and redefine what riders expect from their daily commute.”
Customization and Aftermarket Support
Recognizing the Indian consumer’s love for personalization, Hero is offering a range of genuine accessories for the Splendor 135, including:
Crash guards and engine guards
Luggage carriers and top boxes
Seat covers and tank pads
Mobile phone holders
Performance exhaust systems (for off-road use only)
The company is also working closely with aftermarket suppliers to ensure a wide range of options for customers who wish to modify their motorcycles.
Hero Splendor 135 : A New Chapter in the Splendor Legacy
The launch of the Hero Splendor 135 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of one of India’s most beloved motorcycle brands.
By introducing a more powerful engine while retaining the core values of efficiency and reliability, Hero MotoCorp has created a product that has the potential to redefine the commuter segment.
As the automotive landscape in India continues to evolve, with changing consumer preferences and technological advancements, the success of the Splendor 135 will be closely watched.
It represents not just Hero MotoCorp’s vision for the future of commuter motorcycles but also serves as a barometer for the overall direction of the Indian two-wheeler market.
Whether the Splendor 135 will be able to replicate the runaway success of its smaller-engined predecessors remains to be seen.
But one thing is certain – it has all the ingredients to write a new chapter in the Splendor legacy, potentially setting new benchmarks for what a commuter motorcycle can be in the 21st century.
As the first units of the Hero Splendor 135 start rolling out of showrooms and onto Indian roads, they carry with them the hopes of Hero MotoCorp and the aspirations of millions of Indian commuters.
The next phase in the Splendor story has begun, and it promises to be an exciting one, potentially reshaping the landscape of commuter motorcycles in India.