The Hero Splendor is not just a motorcycle — it is an institution. The world’s best-selling two-wheeler for over a decade has been the backbone of middle-class India’s mobility, and the XTEC variant brings it into the smartphone era with Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging, and LED lighting without abandoning the core Splendor virtues of reliability, affordability, and exceptional fuel economy. After 18 months of daily commuting and 22,000 km, here’s our comprehensive review.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 97.2cc, Single-cylinder, Air-cooled, FI |
| Max Power | 8.02 PS @ 8,000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 5,000 rpm |
| Claimed Mileage | 60 kmpl |
| Kerb Weight | 111 kg |
| Seat Height | 785 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 9.8 litres |
| Starting Price | ₹78,900 (ex-showroom) |
Design & Styling
The Splendor Plus XTEC doesn’t try to be trendy — it’s honest, clean, and purposeful. The chrome accents, the signature Splendor silhouette, and the XTEC’s LED headlamp (a first for the Splendor) make it look more premium than entry-level pricing suggests. The new colour options — Matte Shield Blue, Matte Axis Grey — are modern without being garish. The instrument cluster retains its proven analogue-digital hybrid layout with the addition of Bluetooth connectivity indicators. At 111 kg, it’s light and manageable for virtually any rider.
Engine & Performance
The 97.2cc fuel-injected single is perfectly calibrated for its purpose. 8.05 Nm at 5,000 rpm — the engine pulls confidently from low RPMs, making city stop-and-go traffic effortless. Top speed is approximately 90 km/h; comfortable commute at 60–75 km/h. After 22,000 km, the engine remains as smooth and quiet as day one — Hero’s build quality for the Splendor is genuinely exceptional. Fuel injection has improved starting consistency and eliminated the seasonal cold-start issues of the previous carburettored variants.
Mileage & Fuel Economy
Over 22,000 km: city: 58–62 kmpl; highway: 65–68 kmpl; overall: 61.5 kmpl — effectively matching Hero’s claimed figure. The 9.8-litre tank provides approximately 570–650 km of range. Monthly fuel costs for a 40 km/day commuter: approximately ₹950–1,050. The Splendor XTEC running costs are extraordinarily low — making it the most economical motorcycle in India’s 100cc category.
Ride Quality & Handling
The Splendor Plus’s telescopic forks at the front and twin rear shock absorbers handle Indian roads competently. At 111 kg, it’s light enough for even first-time riders to manoeuvre confidently. City potholes and rough roads are handled without discomfort. The low 785 mm seat height means virtually every Indian rider can flat-foot with ease. Handling is predictable and confidence-inspiring — the Splendor doesn’t need to be an agile sportsbike; it needs to be a dependable, accessible commuter, and it delivers this flawlessly.
Features & Technology
The XTEC variant’s Bluetooth connectivity (via Hero Connect app): call alerts on the instrument cluster, SMS/WhatsApp notification alerts, find my vehicle, navigation assistance cues, and service reminders. LED headlamp provides meaningfully better illumination than the previous halogen units. USB type-A charging port. i3S idle stop-start technology. These additions don’t change the Splendor’s fundamental character but make it more relevant for the smartphone generation.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The Splendor is designed for Indian commuting conditions. The upright riding position, wide seat, and low foot pegs make it comfortable for riders of all heights. Over 22,000 km of daily commuting, back and wrist fatigue are absent. The pillion seat is comfortable for urban trips. The Splendor’s ergonomics represent decades of refinement for the Indian use case — and it shows in how naturally comfortable the riding position feels from the first ride.
Safety
Drum brakes front and rear — adequate for the Splendor’s intended performance level. No ABS on XTEC variants. The CBS (Combined Braking System) ensures balanced braking distribution when the rear brake is applied.
Price & Variants
- Standard (Drum): ₹78,900
- XTEC: ₹86,700
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 60+ kmpl real-world mileage | No disc brake / ABS option |
| Bluetooth app connectivity at this price | 9.8L tank smaller than Xtreme 125R (12L) |
| India’s most extensive service network | 90 km/h top speed — limited for occasional highway use |
| Extremely low ownership costs | Basic features vs 125cc rivals |
| 22,000 km with zero major issues — proven reliability | No significant upgrade for sporty riders |
Who Should Buy It?
Buy the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC if your priority is the lowest total cost of ownership, proven reliability, and an extensive nationwide service network. The XTEC’s Bluetooth features and LED headlamp make it genuinely competitive with 125cc rivals while the fuel economy remains unmatched. For first-time buyers on a budget, rural commuters, and city riders whose daily run is under 50 km, the Splendor XTEC remains the definitive choice — and has been for good reason. Rating: 8.5/10.
