The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC is not just a motorcycle — it is a national institution. Year after year, the Splendor family tops India’s motorcycle sales charts, and for good reason: it offers the most dependable, economical, and widely serviced two-wheeler experience available to Indian buyers at any price. The XTEC edition adds modern features — a digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB charging — to the proven Splendor formula. For millions of daily commuters across urban and rural India, this is the bike that matters most. We tested it rigorously to determine whether it still earns its “mileage king” crown in 2026.
Quick Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 97.2cc, Single-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Air-Cooled, OHC, FI |
| Power | 8.02 bhp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-Speed |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| ARAI Mileage | 74.32 km/l |
| Kerb Weight | 112 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 9.8 litres |
| Ex-showroom Price (Delhi) | ₹77,400 – ₹82,900 |
Design & Styling
The Splendor Plus XTEC maintains the timeless commuter styling that has made the platform successful for decades — clean lines, functional graphics, and a no-nonsense visual identity. New for the XTEC edition are chrome accents on the side panels and a refreshed instrument console design that signals the added technology within. Available in Candy Blazing Red, Pearl Igneous Black, and Force Silver, the colours are conservative but appropriate for the target buyer. Build quality is robust and road-tested — the Splendor is engineered for durability in demanding conditions, from urban congestion to rural kachha roads.
Engine & Performance
The 97.2cc fuel-injected single produces 8.02 bhp and 8.05 Nm of torque — modest numbers that define “sufficient for purpose.” The engine is smooth at commuter speeds, pulling cleanly from under 2,000 rpm and remaining vibration-free at 50–60 km/h cruise. Top speed of approximately 85–90 km/h is adequate for urban and semi-urban use. The fuel injection (replacing the older carburettor) significantly improves cold starts, altitude performance, and consistent fuel delivery. The 4-speed gearbox is simple and reliable. For daily commuting at 30–60 km per day, the Splendor XTEC does everything asked of it without drama or complaint.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Here is where the Splendor XTEC earns its legend status. ARAI certifies 74.32 km/l — one of the highest figures in Indian motorcycling. Real-world city riding in moderate traffic yields 60–65 km/l. Highway use at 60–70 km/h returns 68–72 km/l. With the 9.8-litre tank, a single fill-up gives 650–700 km of real-world city range — enough for most riders to refuel once every two to three weeks. Monthly fuel costs for a 1,000 km commuter can be as low as ₹450–500. No other motorcycle in India matches this economy at this price.
Ride Quality & Handling
Telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers are tuned for comfort on urban roads. The Splendor handles potholes, speed bumps, and broken surfaces with ease — its 18-inch wheels absorb irregularities effectively. Braking from a drum-drum setup on the base variant and a front disc option on the XTEC top variant is adequate for the performance envelope. The CBS (Combined Braking System) on disc variants is a welcome safety addition. Handling is predictable and stable at city speeds; highway stability at 80+ km/h is acceptable but not exceptional.
Features & Technology
The XTEC edition’s standout additions: a fully digital instrument cluster displaying speed, fuel level, trip, and service reminders; Bluetooth connectivity via the Hero Connect app for call/SMS alerts and navigation; and a USB charging port (Type-A). These additions transform the Splendor experience for the modern commuter. The LED headlamp — a Hero Connect first for the Splendor — is notably bright. These features set the XTEC meaningfully apart from the standard Splendor at a modest price premium.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The Splendor’s ergonomics are perfectly calibrated for Indian commuters: upright seating position, comfortable footpeg placement, and a wide handlebar that makes low-speed manoeuvring effortless. At 112 kg, it is one of the lightest motorcycles available, making it ideal for riders who need to regularly push the bike or navigate tight parking. Seat height at 783 mm is accessible for virtually all Indian riders. The seat is well padded and comfortable for extended urban commuting. Pillion comfort is adequate for shorter trips.
Price & Variants
| Variant | Ex-showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|
| Splendor Plus XTEC (Drum) | ₹77,400 |
| Splendor Plus XTEC (Disc) | ₹82,900 |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best-in-class fuel economy (60–72 km/l) | Not a performance motorcycle |
| Bluetooth and USB charging (XTEC) | 4-speed gearbox limits high-speed efficiency |
| Hero’s pan-India service network | Top speed limited to 85–90 km/h |
| Extremely affordable purchase and running cost | No ABS even on top variant |
| Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre | Basic pillion comfort |
Verdict
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC does not need defending or justifying to most Indian buyers — its 30+ year sales dominance speaks for itself. With the XTEC edition, it evolves intelligently, adding modern connectivity and convenience features without compromising its core virtues of economy, reliability, and accessibility. If you commute 30–60 km daily in an Indian city or town, need a machine that costs almost nothing to run, and want the security of India’s widest service network, nothing beats the Splendor. India’s favourite motorcycle, now smarter.
