Hero Splendor 135 : In a move that’s set to redefine the commuter motorcycle segment, Hero MotoCorp has unveiled its latest offering – the Hero Splendor 135.
This new iteration of India’s beloved motorcycle promises to blend the reliability and efficiency that the Splendor name is known for with a more powerful engine and premium aesthetics. Let’s delve into what makes this new Splendor a game-changer in its class.
Hero Splendor 135 The Dhakad Engine: Power Meets Efficiency
At the heart of the new Hero Splendor 135 lies its most significant upgrade – the ‘dhakad’ (powerful) engine. This new powerplant is a testament to Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to innovation and understanding of the Indian market’s evolving needs:
Engine Specifications:
134.5cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine
Power output: 12.5 bhp @ 7500 rpm
Torque: 12 Nm @ 5500 rpm
Fuel injection system for optimal performance and efficiency
Performance Enhancements:
25% increase in power compared to the standard Splendor
Improved acceleration for better city riding experience
Top speed of 100 km/h, making it highway-capable
Efficiency:
Despite the power increase, the Splendor 135 maintains impressive fuel efficiency
Claimed mileage of 65 km/l under test conditions
Real-world efficiency expected to be around 60 km/l
Refinement:
Counterbalancer for reduced vibrations
Smoother power delivery across the rev range
This new engine strikes a perfect balance between the additional power that riders have been asking for and the legendary fuel efficiency that the Splendor brand is known for.
Hero Splendor 135 Premium Design: Style Meets Functionality
The Hero Splendor 135 isn’t just about performance; it also brings a fresh, premium look to the commuter segment:
Modern Styling:
Sharper lines and more aggressive stance
LED headlamp with distinctive daytime running lights
Stylish LED taillamp for improved visibility and aesthetics
Premium Paint Options:
Glossy metallic finishes
New color schemes including Blazing Red, Midnight Blue, and Graphite Black
Special edition matte finishes for a distinctive look
Redesigned Instrument Cluster:
Semi-digital console with analog speedometer and digital display
Real-time fuel efficiency indicator
Gear position indicator
Enhanced Ergonomics:
Redesigned seat for improved comfort on long rides
Slightly raised handlebars for a more relaxed riding position
Broader footpegs for better stability
Practical Upgrades:
USB charging port for mobile devices
Under-seat storage compartment with increased capacity
These design enhancements not only give the Splendor 135 a more upmarket appearance but also improve its functionality for daily use.
Hero Splendor 135 Ride and Handling: Comfort Meets Control
Hero has paid special attention to the ride and handling characteristics of the new Splendor 135:
Suspension:
Telescopic front forks with increased travel for better shock absorption
5-step adjustable rear suspension to cater to different load conditions
Braking:
Front disc brake (optional) for improved stopping power
Integrated Braking System (IBS) for safer braking
Tires:
Wider tires for improved stability and grip
Tubeless tires as standard for enhanced safety and convenience
Frame:
Strengthened diamond frame for improved stability at higher speeds
Optimized weight distribution for better handling
These upgrades ensure that the Splendor 135 remains easy to handle in city traffic while providing more confidence on open roads.
Hero Splendor 135 Technology Integration: Smart Features for Modern Riders
The Hero Splendor 135 comes equipped with several tech features that are uncommon in its segment:
Hero Connect:
Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smartphones
Turn-by-turn navigation display on the instrument cluster
Call and message notifications
i3S Technology:
Idle Start-Stop System for improved fuel efficiency in city traffic
Automatic engine cut-off at traffic signals
Side-Stand Engine Cut-off:
Prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is down
Real-time Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics system for early detection of issues
These features not only enhance the riding experience but also contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of the motorcycle.
Hero Splendor 135 Safety Features: Prioritizing Rider Protection
Hero MotoCorp has incorporated several safety features in the Splendor 135:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System):
Single-channel ABS on the front wheel (optional)
Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
Bright LED Lighting:
Improved visibility in all conditions
Hazard Lights:
For increased visibility during emergencies or breakdowns
Robust Build Quality:
High-tensile steel frame for improved crash protection
Engine Kill Switch:
For quick engine shut-off in emergencies
These safety features make the Splendor 135 one of the safest commuter motorcycles in its class.
Hero Splendor 135 Variants and Pricing
The Hero Splendor 135 is available in multiple variants to cater to different needs and budgets:
Splendor 135 Drum Brake: Starting at ₹75,000
Splendor 135 Disc Brake: Starting at ₹78,000
Splendor 135 Disc Brake with ABS: Starting at ₹82,000
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)
This competitive pricing strategy ensures that the Splendor 135 remains accessible to its target audience while offering premium features.
Hero Splendor 135 Market Impact and Competition
The launch of the Hero Splendor 135 is set to shake up the 125-150cc segment. Its primary competitors include:
Honda SP 125
Bajaj Pulsar 125
TVS Raider 125
However, with its combination of a more powerful engine, premium features, and the trusted Splendor brand name, the Splendor 135 is well-positioned to capture a significant market share.
After-Sales Support and Warranty
Hero MotoCorp backs the Splendor 135 with its extensive service network:
Warranty: 5-year/70,000 km warranty (whichever comes first)
Service Network: Over 6,000 touch points across India
Hero GoodLife Program: Loyalty program offering additional benefits to Splendor owners
Environmental Considerations
While not an electric vehicle, the Splendor 135 incorporates several eco-friendly features:
BS6 Compliance: Meets the latest emission norms
Improved Fuel Efficiency: Reduces overall carbon footprint
Use of Recycled Materials: In certain non-critical components
Hero Splendor 135 Conclusion: The Evolution of an Icon
The Hero Splendor 135 represents more than just a new model; it’s the evolution of an icon. By blending the trusted reliability of the Splendor name with a more powerful engine and premium features, Hero MotoCorp has created a motorcycle that promises to meet the changing needs of the Indian commuter.
This new Splendor addresses the desire for more power and modern features without compromising on the efficiency and dependability that have made the Splendor India’s favorite motorcycle for decades. It’s a testament to Hero MotoCorp’s understanding of the market and its ability to innovate while staying true to its core values.
For potential buyers, the Splendor 135 offers an attractive proposition – the opportunity to own a motorcycle that’s powerful enough for occasional highway use, stylish enough to turn heads, and yet practical enough for everyday commuting.
It’s a bike that grows with the rider, suitable for both the young professional starting their career and the experienced rider looking for a reliable, feature-rich commuter.
As India’s automotive landscape continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on performance, style, and technology even in the commuter segment, the Hero Splendor 135 stands as a prime example of how manufacturers can innovate to meet changing consumer demands.
It’s not just a new model; it’s a statement of intent from India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, showcasing their ability to blend power, style, and efficiency in a package that remains true to the Splendor’s core ethos.
The success of the Splendor 135 could potentially influence the direction of the commuter motorcycle segment in India, encouraging other manufacturers to offer more powerful and feature-rich options in this category.
For Hero MotoCorp, it represents a strategic move to strengthen its position in the highly competitive two-wheeler market, offering a product that appeals to both the heart and the head of the Indian consumer.
As the Hero Splendor 135 hits the roads across India, it carries with it the legacy of the country’s most beloved motorcycle brand and the promise of a new era in commuter motorcycling.
It stands ready to write the next chapter in the Splendor’s storied history, potentially redefining what Indian riders can expect from a commuter motorcycle. In doing so, it may well cement its place as not just another successful model, but as a trendsetter that shapes the future of India’s two-wheeler market.