In the bustling streets of India, where two-wheelers reign supreme, a new contender has emerged to challenge the status quo.
The Hero Splendor 135, a bold evolution of the iconic Splendor lineage, promises to bridge the gap between modest commuters and performance-oriented motorcycles.
Let’s delve into what makes this machine a potential game-changer in the Indian motorcycle market.
The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the Splendor 135 lies its most significant upgrade – a larger, more potent engine that sets it apart from its predecessors.
The 134.5cc air-cooled, single-cylinder powerplant is a masterpiece of engineering, striking a delicate balance between performance and efficiency.
Key Engine Specifications:
Displacement: 134.5cc
Maximum Power: 11.5 PS @ 7500 rpm
Peak Torque: 11.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
This new engine offers a substantial 30% increase in power over the previous 125cc model, providing zippy acceleration and confident overtaking abilities.
Yet, true to the Splendor DNA, it maintains an impressive fuel efficiency of 65 km/l under standard testing conditions.
Some sources even claim a staggering 77 km/l mileage, though this figure might be achievable only under ideal conditions.
Design and Aesthetics
The Splendor 135 marks a departure from the conservative styling of its smaller siblings. It sports a more muscular and contemporary look, with design elements that hint at its increased performance potential:
Sleek, aerodynamic fairing
Sharp, angular headlamp design
Sporty graphics and color schemes
Wider tires for improved stability and visual appeal
These design changes not only enhance the bike’s aesthetics but also contribute to its improved aerodynamics and overall performance.
Technology at Your Fingertips
Hero MotoCorp has loaded the Splendor 135 with technology that was once the preserve of much more expensive motorcycles:
Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: A blend of traditional and modern, providing all essential information at a glance.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair your smartphone for call alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, and music control.
Hero Connect: An IoT-based solution offering features like geo-fencing, live tracking, and service reminders.
USB Charging Port: A practical addition for keeping your devices charged on the go.
Start-Stop Technology: Enhancing fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
The 4.12-inch digital screen serves as the command center, displaying vital information clearly and concisely. This tech-forward approach positions the Splendor 135 as a modern machine ready for the connected rider.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Despite its sportier pretensions, the Splendor 135 doesn’t compromise on the comfort that the nameplate is known for. The bike features:
A well-padded, elongated seat for rider and pillion comfort
Upright handlebars for a relaxed riding position
Perfectly positioned footpegs for long-distance comfort
Improved suspension setup for a plush ride
These ergonomic considerations ensure that the Splendor 135 remains true to its commuter roots while offering enhanced comfort for longer rides.
Safety First
In an era where safety is paramount, the Splendor 135 doesn’t disappoint:
Combined Braking System (CBS): Ensuring balanced braking even for less experienced riders.
Optional ABS: A first for the Splendor line, offering enhanced safety in challenging road conditions.
Wider Tires: Improving stability and grip, especially in wet conditions.
LED Lighting: Providing better visibility both day and night.
Side Stand Engine Cut-off: An intelligent feature that prevents the bike from moving when the side stand is down.
These safety features demonstrate Hero’s commitment to rider well-being, making the Splendor 135 a responsible choice for both novice and experienced riders.
Performance and Handling
The increased engine capacity doesn’t just translate to better straight-line performance. The Splendor 135 benefits from:
A revised chassis for improved handling
Upgraded suspension components for better ride quality
Larger brakes for enhanced stopping power
These improvements result in a motorcycle that’s not just quicker in a straight line but also more capable in corners and more confident in varied road conditions.
Efficiency: The Splendor Legacy Continues
While the Splendor 135 offers increased performance, it doesn’t stray from the efficiency that the nameplate is renowned for. The bike boasts:
Advanced fuel injection system for optimal fuel delivery
Low-friction engine components to minimize power loss
Aerodynamic design to reduce drag
These factors contribute to the impressive fuel efficiency figures, ensuring that the Splendor 135 remains an economical choice for budget-conscious riders.
Market Positioning and Competition
Priced competitively between ₹80,000 to ₹90,000 (ex-showroom), the Splendor 135 positions itself as a premium commuter, bridging the gap between traditional 100-110cc motorcycles and the 150cc segment. Its primary competitors include:
Honda SP 125
Bajaj Pulsar 125
TVS Raider 125
However, with its larger engine and advanced features, the Splendor 135 carves out a unique niche for itself, offering a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and technology.
The Ownership Experience
Owning a Splendor 135 comes with the assurance of Hero MotoCorp’s vast service network and the brand’s reputation for reliability. Potential owners can expect:
Low maintenance costs
Easy availability of spare parts
Strong resale value
Regular software updates for connected features
These factors contribute to a hassle-free ownership experience, a crucial consideration for many buyers in this segment.
Environmental Considerations
In an age of increasing environmental awareness, the Splendor 135 showcases Hero’s commitment to sustainability:
BS6 compliant engine with reduced emissions
Improved fuel efficiency leading to lower carbon footprint
Use of recyclable materials in manufacturing
While not an electric vehicle, the Splendor 135’s efficiency and adherence to the latest emission norms make it a relatively eco-friendly choice in the internal combustion engine category.
Looking to the Future
The introduction of the Splendor 135 is more than just a new model launch; it’s a statement of intent from Hero MotoCorp. It showcases their commitment to innovation and their understanding of evolving consumer needs.
As India’s motorcycle market matures and riders seek more from their daily commuters, the Splendor 135 stands ready to meet those expectations.
Looking ahead, Hero has hinted at the possibility of alternative fuel versions, including a CNG variant and even an electric Splendor in the coming years.
These moves would further cement the Splendor’s position as a forward-thinking, environmentally conscious choice for the modern rider.
Hero Splendor 135 : A New Chapter in the Splendor Saga
The Hero Splendor 135 represents a bold step forward for one of India’s most beloved motorcycle nameplates.
It retains the core values that made the Splendor a household name – reliability, efficiency, and value for money – while injecting a dose of performance and technology that brings it firmly into the modern era.
For the daily commuter looking for a bit more excitement, the young professional seeking a reliable yet stylish ride, or the family needing a versatile two-wheeler, the Splendor 135 offers a compelling package.
It’s a motorcycle that respects its heritage while embracing the future, a balance that Hero MotoCorp seems to have struck with precision.
As the Indian motorcycle market continues to evolve, the Splendor 135 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-engineered, thoughtfully designed machine.
It’s not just a new motorcycle; it’s a new chapter in the storied history of one of India’s most iconic brands. The Hero Splendor 135 isn’t just keeping up with the times – it’s helping to define them.