The Hero Splendor Plus is one of the most popular commuter bikes in India, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The bike has been around for over two decades and has undergone several upgrades and updates over the years, but the core essence of the Splendor brand remains intact. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Hero Splendor Plus, its features, performance, and why it continues to be the go-to choice for millions of Indian bikers.
History of Hero Splendor Plus
The Hero Splendor brand was launched in 1994, and since then, it has been a household name in India. The bike was an instant hit among the Indian masses, thanks to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs. Over the years, Hero MotoCorp has introduced several variants and upgrades to the Splendor brand, including the Splendor Plus.
The Hero Splendor Plus was launched in 2007, and since then, it has become the flagship model in the Splendor range. The bike was designed to cater to the needs of the Indian commuter, who prioritizes fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability over performance and style. The Splendor Plus has been consistently ranked as one of the top-selling bikes in India, with millions of units sold since its launch.
Features of Hero Splendor Plus
The Hero Splendor Plus is a no-frills commuter bike, designed to get you from point A to point B without any fuss. The bike comes with a range of features that make it perfect for the Indian market. Here are some of the key features of the Hero Splendor Plus:
- Engine: The Splendor Plus is powered by a 97.2 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, which produces a maximum power of 8.02 PS at 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 8.05 Nm at 6000 rpm. The engine is mated to a 4-speed gearbox and delivers a fuel efficiency of around 65 kmpl.
- Design: The design of the Splendor Plus is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills or fancy features. The bike comes with a sleek and aerodynamic body, with a bold headlamp, a sporty fuel tank, and a comfortable seat. The bike is available in a range of colors, including black, red, blue, and silver.
- Suspension: The Splendor Plus comes with a telescopic hydraulic shock absorber at the front and a 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorber at the rear, which provides a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads.
- Brakes: The bike comes with a 130 mm drum brake at the front and a 110 mm drum brake at the rear, which provides adequate stopping power and control.
- Fuel Tank: The Splendor Plus comes with a fuel tank capacity of 9.8 liters, which provides a decent range for daily commutes.
Performance of Hero Splendor Plus
The Hero Splendor Plus is not a performance-oriented bike, but it excels in what it was designed for – commuting. The bike is reliable, fuel-efficient, and easy to handle, making it perfect for city commutes. The bike can reach a top speed of around 90 kmph, but it is not recommended to push the bike to its limits as it can affect fuel efficiency.
One of the biggest advantages of the Splendor Plus is its fuel efficiency. The bike delivers a mileage of around 65 kmpl, which makes it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in India. The engine is also smooth and refined, which adds to the overall riding experience.
The bike’s suspension is another highlight, providing a comfortable ride even on rough roads. The bike’s ground clearance of 159 mm also helps in tackling speed bumps and potholes without scraping the underbelly of the bike.
Another important aspect of the Splendor Plus is its low maintenance cost. The bike’s simple design and reliable engine mean that it requires minimal maintenance, and the spare parts are easily available at affordable prices. This makes it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers who are looking for a reliable and cost-effective mode of transportation.
Conclusion
The Hero Splendor Plus is an iconic Indian commuter bike that has been around for over two decades. The bike’s popularity can be attributed to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The bike is perfect for daily commutes, and its simple and functional design makes it easy to handle and maintain. The bike’s smooth and refined engine, comfortable suspension, and low maintenance cost make it a popular choice among millions of Indian bikers.
While the Splendor Plus may not be the most stylish or performance-oriented bike in the market, it excels in what it was designed for – providing a reliable and cost-effective mode of transportation. The bike has stood the test of time and continues to be a top-selling model in India, proving that sometimes, simplicity is the key to success.
