In the vast landscape of Indian motorcycles, one name stands tall, having etched itself into the very fabric of the nation’s two-wheeler culture – the Hero Splendor Plus.
This unassuming commuter bike has been the backbone of Indian mobility for decades, ferrying millions of riders through bustling city streets and winding rural roads alike.
Let’s delve into what makes the Splendor Plus not just a motorcycle, but a cultural icon.
A Legacy of Trust
The Splendor’s journey began in the 1990s, and since then, it has become synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and value for money.
The Splendor Plus, the latest avatar of this legendary nameplate, continues to build on this rich heritage while adapting to the changing needs of the modern Indian rider.
Design: Timeless Simplicity
At first glance, the Hero Splendor Plus might not turn heads with flashy design elements or aggressive styling. But therein lies its charm.
The bike’s design is a testament to the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” The clean lines, comfortable ergonomics, and no-nonsense approach to styling have remained largely unchanged over the years, and for good reason.
The long, well-padded seat can comfortably accommodate two adults, a crucial feature for a bike that often serves as a family vehicle.
The upright handlebars and neutral foot peg position ensure a comfortable riding posture, essential for those long commutes or extended journeys.
Recent updates have brought subtle modern touches to the classic design. The headlamp now features an LED DRL (Daytime Running Light), adding a contemporary flair while improving visibility.
The graphics and color options have been refreshed to appeal to a younger audience without alienating its core customer base.
Engine: The Heart of Efficiency
Powering the Splendor Plus is a 97.2cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. While these specs might seem modest on paper, they hide a powerplant that’s been refined over decades to deliver exactly what its target audience needs – reliability, fuel efficiency, and easy maintenance.
The engine produces 8.02 PS of power at 8000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm.
These numbers translate to peppy performance in city traffic, allowing the Splendor Plus to zip through gaps with ease. The four-speed gearbox is slick, with well-spaced ratios that make the most of the engine’s power band.
But the real star of the show is the fuel efficiency. Hero claims a mileage of up to 80 kmpl under ideal conditions, a figure that has made the Splendor Plus a favorite among budget-conscious riders.
In real-world conditions, owners regularly report figures in the 65-70 kmpl range, still an impressive feat that significantly reduces the cost of ownership.
Ride and Handling: Comfort is King
The Splendor Plus shines in its natural habitat – the urban jungle. The lightweight chassis (weighing just 112 kg) makes it incredibly easy to maneuver through tight spots.
The suspension setup, consisting of telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers at the front and a 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorber at the rear, is tuned for comfort.
It soaks up road imperfections with aplomb, ensuring a smooth ride even on less-than-perfect surfaces.
The 18-inch wheels, shod with tubeless tires, provide good stability and grip.
The combination of a 130mm drum brake at the front and a 110mm drum brake at the rear might seem basic, but they provide adequate stopping power for the bike’s performance envelope.
For those seeking extra peace of mind, Hero also offers an Integrated Braking System (IBS) variant, which enhances braking performance by applying both brakes when the rear brake is engaged.
Features: Practical Innovations
While the Splendor Plus might not boast a long list of high-tech features, it incorporates several practical innovations that enhance the ownership experience:
i3S Technology (Idle Start-Stop System): This feature automatically shuts off the engine when idling for more than a few seconds and restarts it with a simple clutch pull. It’s a smart addition that further improves fuel efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Side-stand Indicator: A simple yet effective safety feature that reminds the rider if the side stand is down before moving off.
Real-time Mileage Indicator: Helps riders keep track of their fuel efficiency, encouraging more economical riding habits.
Mobile Charging Port: A useful addition for keeping devices charged on the go.
Alloy Wheels: Available on certain variants, these not only look good but also reduce unsprung weight, improving handling and reducing maintenance.
Ownership Experience: More Than Just a Bike
One of the key factors behind the Splendor Plus’s enduring success is the ownership experience it offers. Hero MotoCorp boasts one of the largest service networks in the country, ensuring that spare parts and maintenance are never far away, even in remote areas.
The simplicity of the bike’s mechanicals means that many minor repairs and maintenance tasks can be carried out by owners themselves, further reducing the cost of ownership.
This DIY-friendly nature has fostered a strong community of Splendor owners who share tips, tricks, and modifications.
Resale value is another strong point. The Splendor Plus consistently ranks among the bikes with the best resale value in the Indian market, making it an attractive proposition for those who like to upgrade their rides every few years.
Environmental Considerations
In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, the Splendor Plus has adapted to meet stricter emission norms. The latest models are BS6 compliant, utilizing fuel injection technology to ensure cleaner combustion.
While this has slightly increased the initial cost, it ensures that the Splendor Plus remains a viable option in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
Cultural Impact
To understand the Splendor Plus, one must look beyond its specifications and features. This motorcycle has become a part of India’s cultural fabric.
It’s the first bike for countless riders, the trusted steed for small businesses, and often, a family’s primary mode of transport.
The Splendor has featured in Bollywood movies, been the subject of memes, and even found its way into academic studies on India’s economic growth.
It’s a testament to Indian frugal engineering and a symbol of the country’s aspirational middle class.
Hero Splendor Plus : The Splendor Endures
In a rapidly changing automotive landscape, where electric vehicles and high-performance machines grab headlines, the Hero Splendor Plus continues to quietly go about its business.
It may not be the most exciting or technologically advanced motorcycle on the market, but it excels at its intended purpose – providing reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation to millions.
The Splendor Plus is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a promise of mobility, a tool for economic empowerment, and a trusted companion on India’s roads.
As long as there’s a need for simple, effective two-wheeled transportation, the Splendor Plus will likely continue to rule the roost, one kilometer at a time.
In the end, the Hero Splendor Plus’s greatest strength is not any single feature or specification, but its ability to be exactly what its riders need it to be – dependable, economical, and unwaveringly faithful.
In a world of constant change, the Splendor Plus remains a comforting constant, a true hero of the Indian roads.