Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer and India’s market leader in motorcycles, has further strengthened its hold on the commuter motorcycle segment with the launch of the all-new Splendor Plus Xtec.
Blending classic and contemporary, the newest entry in the world’s favorite motorcycle line is just so you, now with some added muscle in the form of a few more substantial features.
Hot in a stunning new avatar, intelligent digital attributes and a record breaking 92 kmpl mileage, the Splendor Plus Xtec is truly crafted to rule the highways and the hearts of the daily commuters in the country.
The Splendor has been a household name in India for years now, its reputation of offering unsurpassed fuel economy, low maintenance and fuss free performance has stuck with it through and through.
On the Xtec, Hero attempts to reach out to today’s youngsters, a generation that couldn’t be more tech-savvy, and the Splendor, with a few tweeks to the essence that made the Splendor a success in the first place. Modern design touches and digital upgrades keep this bike relevant for two-wheel commuters in an ever-evolving market.
A Bold and Refreshed Look
The primary upgrade on the Hero Splendor Plus Xtec comes in the form of its bold and sharp design. The motorcycle remains the same with its signature frame and basic bodywork, but the body now adorns new paint and graphics to make it more appealing. Hero has taken this into account and has provided dual-tone color options on the bike along with a new 3D Splendor logo on the fuel tank and a sleek visor that makes it look quite nice.
Joining the sophisticated look is the new LED High-Intensity Position Lamp (HIPL) that integrates neatly into the fuel tank section to create a premium impression up front. The bike is still clearly of utility design; rider friendly in the city and all of that, but with a sportier look and feel that is attractive to a younger audience.
Smart Digital Console and Xtec Features
Where the Splendor Plus Xtec really differs from its forebears is in the all-digital instrument panel, which brings a host of smart features more commonly found in higher-end motorcycles. The real-time mileage feature, gear position indicator, Bluetooth enabled through call and SMS alerts along with low fuel indicator is available on the digital console.
Hero’s in-house developed Xtec technology is targeted at ensuring an ease and safer everyday ride, including a side-stand engine cut-off and an integrated USB charging port.
And that’s exactly what sets the Splendor Plus Xtec above its competitors with the addition of the Bluetooth connectivity in the commuter segment. Riders can now receive call alerts and other notifications directly on the console a gracious concession in an era of round-the-clock digital engagement.
Engine Performance and Unmatched Mileage
Powering the Splendor Plus Xtec is Hero’s familiar 97.2cc air-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder engine. This BS6 engine generates a minimum 7.9 bhp power at 8000 rpm and peak 8.05 Nm torque at 6000 rpm. Sure, the horses aren’t anything to call your friends about, but for a daily riding around the city, it’s well attuned, delivering smooth power, confidence-inspiring nimbleness and an inviting ride quality.
But this bike’s standout feature is still the amazing mileage. The Hero Splendor Plus Xtec boasts a claimed mileage of 92 kmpl, which is among the highest in India. Such mileage is coupled with the Hero’s sturdy construction, which in turn allows bikers to save a lot on fuel in the longer run, particularly when petrol prices have been spiking up constantly.
Riding Comfort and Suspension Setup
The bike has retained the tested and trusted frame of the bike with its typical comfortable seating posture that makes the Splendor Plus Xtec a treat to ride even if you have long commutes.
It gets flat and wide seat that makes it comfortable for both riding and pillion comfort. Telescopic front forks and 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers in the rear take care of the suspension duties to provide a stable and jerk-resistant ride on city roads.
The bike still has very rider-friendly ergonomics and as always, is extremely easy to handle and park, even when you’re in a bind. Whether you’re a student or you have to commute to work daily the bike is here to make you forget the pain of driving while providing you with a low maintenance riding experience.
Braking and Safety Features
For a safety measure of city rides, the Splendor Plus Xtec packs with 130mm drum brakes at both ends along with IBS (Integrated Braking System). No disc brakes, although the saddle range can brake okay for the speed and performance of this commuter. It also comes with a side-stand engine cut off as a standard feature reinforcing the Company’s continued and sustained focus on rider safety.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Perhaps the Hero Splendor Plus Xtec’s greatest strength is its aggressive pricing given the updates and tech that it brings to the table. Starting at approximately ₹79,911 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the bike seems like a really good offer for those seeking a value-packaged commuter bike.
Now when you calculate all the features, like the unmatched mileage, its smart looks, the world’s latest i3S technology and performance, you’ll be confronted by the price of the bike, and you will realise that the new Splendor Pro really is The Hero to have in this generation.
It’s evident that Hero MotoCorp has made the Xtec variant appealing to the value-conscious Indian customer by giving them a product that doesn’t appear to be overpriced in any way.
Conclusion
The Hero Splendor Plus Xtec is an outstanding demonstration of returning a classic to today’s modern times. It melds style, performance, fuel economy and smart tech in a way that few rides in the class even come close to. With the Xtec, whether you are a daily rider in search of a way to slash fuel costs or a first-time buyer in need of a reliable motorcycle, you get everything you need and more.
With best in class 92 kmpl mileage, aggressive design all-new digital features, the Hero Splendor Plus Xtec is not just another variant, it’s an intelligent upgrade to an icon. For those in need of real-life-momentum for all commuting that also serves as an indispensable friend, this bike is every check in the box.
