Hero Splendor 135: In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian motorcycling, few names carry the weight and legacy of the Hero Splendor.
For decades, this iconic commuter has been the backbone of Indian mobility, putting millions on two wheels with its perfect blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
Now, in a bold move set to reshape the commuter segment, Hero MotoCorp is preparing to launch the much-anticipated Hero Splendor 135 – a significant upgrade that promises to combine the trusted Splendor DNA with enhanced performance and modern features.
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Hero Splendor 135: The Evolution of an Icon
The Splendor journey began in 1994 as the Hero Honda Splendor, successor to the popular CD100 and Sleek models.
For nearly three decades, it has maintained its position as India’s best-selling motorcycle, evolving through various iterations while preserving its core values.
The Splendor lineup currently encompasses multiple engine capacities – from the original 97cc to the 110cc and 125cc variants – catering to different rider needs while maintaining the ethos of reliability and efficiency.
The upcoming Splendor 135 represents the most significant leap forward in the model’s history, signaling Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to innovation while honoring the legacy that made the Splendor a household name across India.
Power and Performance: The Heart of the Beast
The centerpiece of the new Splendor 135 is its robust 135cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine – a powerplant developed in-house by Hero’s engineering team with input from their global technology partners.
This engine represents a substantial upgrade from the smaller displacement variants, designed to deliver the perfect balance of performance and efficiency that modern riders demand.
According to industry sources, the 135cc engine is expected to generate approximately 12 PS of maximum power and up to 15 Nm of torque – numbers that place it competitively within its segment while offering a significant improvement over the current Splendor models.
This power boost addresses one of the few criticisms of earlier Splendors – modest performance on highways and inclines – without abandoning the fuel efficiency that made the nameplate famous.
The engine incorporates Hero’s advanced fuel injection system, ensuring crisp throttle response, easy cold starts, and cleaner emissions in compliance with BS6 Phase 2 norms.
This technology not only enhances performance but also contributes to the impressive fuel efficiency figure of around 55-70 km per liter that Hero is expected to claim for the Splendor 135, remarkable for a motorcycle in this displacement category.
Paired with a smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission, the Splendor 135 promises to deliver seamless power delivery across urban and highway riding conditions – a versatility that broadens its appeal beyond pure commuting.
Design Philosophy: Modern Evolution
Hero has taken a thoughtful approach to the Splendor 135’s design, preserving the recognizable silhouette that made the original instantly identifiable while incorporating contemporary elements that bring it firmly into 2025.
The front profile features a bold new headlamp design with LED technology, complemented by LED indicators that enhance both visibility and visual appeal.
The fuel tank receives subtle sculpting that gives the motorcycle a more muscular stance without abandoning its approachable character. The tail section has been redesigned with a sleeker LED tail lamp, completing the modernized look while maintaining the Splendor’s classic proportions.
Despite these updates, the Splendor 135 remains true to its utilitarian roots with a comfortable upright riding position, ample seat cushioning, and ergonomics designed for all-day comfort – essential qualities for a motorcycle that will serve as primary transportation for many owners.
Feature-Rich Commuting: Technology That Matters
The Splendor 135 represents a significant technological upgrade, incorporating features previously unavailable in the Splendor lineup.
The most notable addition is the front disc brake – a first for the Splendor series – accompanied by an anti-lock braking system (ABS) that substantially enhances safety and braking performance.
The rear wheel retains a drum brake setup, striking a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.
The instrument cluster receives a major upgrade, combining analog and digital displays. While the speedometer maintains an analog design for at-a-glance readability, the digital section provides essential information including fuel level, odometer, trip meter, and service indicators.
Some reports suggest the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones for notification alerts and potentially navigation assistance – a feature increasingly valued by younger riders.
Other modern conveniences include a USB charging port for keeping devices powered on the go, tubeless tires for enhanced puncture resistance, and wider tire profiles (expected to be 80/100-18 front and 90/90-18 rear) for improved grip and stability.
The lighting system is fully LED, including the headlight, tail light, and indicators – improving visibility while reducing power consumption.
Storage capacity has also been addressed with a spacious under-seat compartment, adding practical utility for everyday use.
Ride Quality and Dynamics: Balanced Engineering
Chassis engineering has received careful attention in the Splendor 135’s development. While the fundamental architecture remains similar to existing Splendor models, with a tubular double cradle frame, the suspension components have been upgraded to handle the increased power output while improving ride quality.
The front telescopic fork offers increased travel for better shock absorption, while the rear twin shock absorbers feature 5-step adjustable preload to accommodate different load conditions.
These refinements, combined with the wider tire profile, contribute to a more planted feel, particularly at higher speeds where previous Splendor models could feel somewhat nervous.
Despite the enhancements, Hero’s engineers have managed to maintain the tight turning radius that makes the Splendor series so maneuverable in congested urban environments – a critical quality for its target market.
The increased wheelbase provides better stability without compromising the nimble handling characteristics that commuters value.
Market Positioning: The Sweet Spot
The Splendor 135 is strategically positioned to occupy the growing middle ground between pure commuters and entry-level performance motorcycles.
This segment has seen increased competition in recent years, with models like the Honda SP 125, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and TVS Raider vying for market share.
What sets the Splendor 135 apart is its combination of the trusted Splendor reputation with performance credentials that make it suitable for more than just basic transportation.
This positioning allows Hero to target both existing Splendor owners looking to upgrade without leaving the brand they trust, and new buyers seeking a versatile, do-it-all motorcycle that balances commuting practicality with weekend leisure riding capability.
The pricing strategy, while not officially announced, is expected to place the Splendor 135 competitively within the ₹90,000 to ₹1,00,000 range (ex-showroom), representing excellent value considering the comprehensive feature set and performance upgrades.
Environmental Considerations: Sustainability in Focus
In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, Hero has ensured that the Splendor 135 is not just powerful but also eco-friendly.
The motorcycle meets BS6 Phase 2 emission standards through its advanced fuel injection system, which optimizes combustion for cleaner exhaust gases.
Beyond emissions, Hero has implemented new manufacturing processes that reduce waste and energy consumption in the production of the Splendor 135, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability across its operations.
These efforts not only benefit the environment but also enhance the overall ownership proposition by aligning with the values of increasingly eco-conscious consumers.
Ownership Experience: The Total Package
The Splendor nameplate has always been synonymous with hassle-free ownership, and the 135cc variant continues this tradition while enhancing the overall experience.
Hero’s vast service network – the largest in India – ensures support is never far away, even in remote areas.
Maintenance costs are expected to remain reasonable despite the increased complexity, with service intervals likely set at 6,000 kilometers to minimize ownership expenses.
The proven reliability of Hero’s engineering should translate to exceptional durability, while the improved fit and finish promise to keep the motorcycle looking good through years of service.
The comprehensive 5-year warranty package that Hero is expected to offer with the Splendor 135 further reinforces buyer confidence and reduces the total cost of ownership – a critical factor in the value-conscious Indian market.
Reception and Future Outlook
While the official launch is still pending, industry analysts and automotive journalists who have had preview access to the Splendor 135 have expressed largely positive impressions.
Particular praise has been directed at the noticeable increase in power without sacrificing the legendary fuel efficiency, improved ride quality at higher speeds, and the thoughtful integration of modern features that enhance the overall riding experience.
Some observers have noted that while the performance upgrade is welcome, the Splendor 135 remains true to its commuter roots – prioritizing reliability and efficiency over outright performance.
This alignment with the core Splendor values should resonate with the target audience while still offering enough advancement to attract new customers.
The success of the Splendor 135 could potentially pave the way for further expansion of the lineup, with industry analysts speculating about potential touring-oriented variants or even hybrid powertrains as Hero continues to evolve its flagship brand.
Hero Splendor 135: The Next Chapter in a Legendary Story
The Hero Splendor 135 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of one of India’s most beloved motorcycle series.
By carefully balancing performance enhancements with the core values of efficiency and reliability, Hero MotoCorp has created a motorcycle that honors its legacy while pushing boldly into the future.
For the millions of riders who have trusted the Splendor name over decades, the 135cc variant offers a compelling upgrade path that delivers more capability without abandoning the qualities that made the original a success.
For new buyers, it presents an attractive entry point to the Hero family, combining modern features with proven dependability.
As India’s motorcycle market continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on performance, features, and environmental considerations, the Hero Splendor 135 stands as a testament to the potential of thoughtful, customer-centric innovation.
It’s not just a new model; it’s a reimagining of what a commuter motorcycle can be in 2025 and beyond – carrying forward the Splendor legacy for the next generation of Indian riders.
