In a bold move that’s set the Indian two-wheeler market abuzz, Hero MotoCorp has unveiled its latest offering – the Hero Splendor Plus xtech.
This cutting-edge iteration of India’s beloved commuter motorcycle promises to redefine the segment with a perfect blend of tradition and technology.
The Splendor nameplate has been a cornerstone of Indian roads for over three decades, and with the xtech variant, Hero aims to carry this legacy into the future.
Let’s delve into what makes this new avatar of the Splendor a game-changer in the commuter segment.
Design Evolution: Familiar Yet Fresh
At first glance, the Splendor Plus xtech retains the iconic silhouette that has made it a household name.
However, a closer look reveals subtle yet significant updates that bring it firmly into the modern era.
The most noticeable change is the introduction of a full-LED headlight, a first for the 100cc segment.
This is complemented by an H-shaped LED Daytime Running Light (DRL), giving the bike a distinctive face that stands out in traffic.
The rear end hasn’t been neglected either, sporting an H-shaped LED tail light that enhances both visibility and style.
Rajesh Kumar, Chief Designer at Hero MotoCorp, explains the design philosophy: “Our challenge was to modernize the Splendor without losing its essence.
The LED lighting system not only improves visibility but also gives the bike a premium feel that today’s consumers expect.”
The body panels have been subtly reshaped, offering a more contemporary look without alienating loyal Splendor fans.
New dual-tone color options, including Matte Grey, Gloss Black, and Gloss Red, add a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic.
Tech-Savvy Features: A Segment First
Where the Splendor Plus xtech truly shines is in its tech offerings, many of which are unprecedented in its segment.
The piece de resistance is the fully digital LCD instrument cluster, a significant upgrade from the analog units typically found in this class of motorcycles.
This isn’t just any digital display – it’s Bluetooth-enabled, allowing riders to connect their smartphones for call and SMS alerts.
Real-time mileage information is also displayed, a feature that’s sure to be appreciated by budget-conscious commuters.
Anoop Singh, Head of Product Strategy at Hero MotoCorp, proudly states, “With the xtech variant, we’re bringing premium features to the mass market.
The Bluetooth connectivity and real-time mileage display are features you’d expect in much more expensive bikes.”
Other notable tech additions include a USB charging port conveniently located on the left side of the headlight cowl, a side-stand engine cut-off function for added safety, and Hero’s proprietary i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) for improved fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
Perhaps the most surprising addition is the inclusion of a bank angle sensor.
This safety feature automatically cuts off the engine if the bike tips over, a level of sophistication rarely seen in the commuter segment.
Powerplant: Reliable and Efficient
Under the hood, the Splendor Plus xtech retains the tried-and-tested 97.2cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine.
This unit produces 8.02PS at 8000rpm and 8.05Nm at 6000rpm, figures that may seem modest but are perfectly suited for urban commuting.
The real star of the show is the engine’s fuel efficiency. In real-world testing, the Splendor Plus xtech achieved an impressive 83.2kmpl in the city and 95.8kmpl on the highway.
Coupled with the 9.8-liter fuel tank, this translates to a theoretical range of over 900 kilometers on a single tank – a boon for budget-conscious riders.
Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman and CEO of Hero MotoCorp, emphasizes this point: “Fuel efficiency has always been a cornerstone of the Splendor’s appeal.
With the xtech variant, we’ve managed to improve upon this strength while adding modern features that enhance the overall riding experience.”
Ride and Handling: Comfort Meets Capability
The Splendor Plus xtech doesn’t disappoint when it comes to ride quality. It retains the comfortable upright riding position that has made the Splendor a favorite among commuters.
The well-cushioned seat, measuring 785mm in height, ensures that riders of various heights can easily plant their feet on the ground.
The suspension setup, consisting of telescopic forks at the front and 5-step adjustable twin shock absorbers at the rear, does an admirable job of soaking up road imperfections.
The large 18-inch alloy wheels, shod with 80-section tubeless tires, provide stability and confidence-inspiring handling.
One area where the xtech variant sees a significant upgrade is in the braking department.
While drum brakes are standard, Hero now offers an optional 240mm front disc brake – a welcome addition that significantly improves stopping power and overall safety.
Market Positioning and Competition
Priced at Rs 82,911 (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the drum brake variant and Rs 83,461 for the disc brake option, the Splendor Plus xtech positions itself at the premium end of the 100cc segment.
This pricing strategy places it in direct competition with models like the TVS Radeon, Bajaj Platina 110, and the recently launched Honda Shine 100.
Industry analyst Rajesh Sharma offers his perspective: “The Splendor Plus xtech is a bold move by Hero.
They’re betting that consumers are willing to pay a premium for advanced features in the commuter segment. If successful, this could reshape the entire entry-level motorcycle market in India.”
The xtech variant also serves as a bridge between the traditional Splendor lineup and Hero’s more premium offerings like the Passion xtech.
This strategic positioning allows Hero to cater to customers looking for an upgrade within the brand’s ecosystem.
Consumer Response and Future Outlook
Initial response to the Splendor Plus xtech has been overwhelmingly positive.
Dealerships report strong interest, particularly from young urban professionals and tech-savvy rural customers looking for a modern commuter with the Splendor’s legendary reliability.
Amit Patel, a 28-year-old software engineer from Pune, shares his experience: “I’ve been riding Splendors since college, but the xtech is a whole new ball game.
The Bluetooth features and digital display make it feel like a much more expensive bike. It’s perfect for my daily commute.”
Looking ahead, industry experts speculate that the success of the Splendor Plus xtech could pave the way for more tech-oriented offerings in the commuter segment.
There are already rumors of Hero working on an electric version of the Splendor, though the company remains tight-lipped about such developments.
Dr. Munjal hints at future plans: “The xtech variant is just the beginning. We’re constantly exploring ways to innovate and improve the riding experience for our customers.
The future of mobility is exciting, and Hero MotoCorp is committed to leading the charge.”
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, the Splendor Plus xtech isn’t without its critics.
Some industry watchers argue that the added features, while impressive, may be overkill for the typical commuter bike buyer.
Automotive journalist Priya Sharma raises a valid point: “While the tech features are nice to have, the real question is whether the average Splendor buyer values these additions enough to justify the price premium.
Hero will need to educate consumers about the benefits of these features to drive adoption.”
There’s also the question of long-term reliability. With more electronic components, there are concerns about potential maintenance issues down the line, especially in rural areas where specialized service might be harder to come by.
Hero, for its part, maintains that extensive testing has been done to ensure the xtech variant lives up to the Splendor’s reputation for bulletproof reliability.
The company has also announced plans to upgrade its service centers and train mechanics to handle the new technology.
Hero Splendor Plus xtech : A New Chapter in the Splendor Saga
The Hero Splendor Plus xtech represents a significant milestone in the evolution of India’s most popular motorcycle.
By blending the tried-and-tested Splendor formula with cutting-edge features, Hero MotoCorp has created a product that has the potential to redefine expectations in the commuter segment.
While it remains to be seen how the market will respond in the long term, the xtech variant is a clear statement of intent from Hero.
It shows that the company is not content to rest on its laurels and is willing to innovate even in a segment it has long dominated.
As India’s two-wheeler market continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on features and technology, the Splendor Plus xtech stands as a bridge between the past and the future.
It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the Splendor name and a glimpse into what the future of affordable mobility might look like in India.
For now, the Splendor Plus xtech has certainly succeeded in turning heads and generating buzz.
Whether it can translate this initial excitement into sustained sales and market dominance remains to be seen. But one thing is certain – the commuter segment in India will never be the same again.