March 23, 2025 – Hero MotoCorp has just lifted the curtain on the 2025 Hero Splendor Plus, and it’s safe to say this isn’t just another tweak to India’s most iconic commuter bike—it’s a full-on glow-up. For over three decades, the Splendor has been the two-wheeler that keeps India moving, from crowded city streets to dusty rural paths. Now, with the 2025 edition hitting the scene, Hero’s giving its bestseller a fresh coat of paint, smarter tech, and a few surprises that could keep it ruling the roads for years to come. Launched today—Sunday, March 23, 2025—this update is already sparking chatter among riders, dealers, and gearheads alike. Here’s the deep dive into what’s new, what’s stayed the same, and why this bike still matters.
A Classic Look with a Modern Edge
The Splendor Plus has never been about flashy curves or wild designs—it’s the reliable friend who shows up on time, every time. The 2025 model keeps that vibe alive but adds some subtle swagger. Think a slightly beefier fuel tank with sleek 3D graphics, a new LED headlamp that’s sharper and brighter, and a tail light that’s slimmed down for a cleaner look. The chrome accents—because what’s a Splendor without a little shine?—are still there, but they’re paired with fresh color options like Halcyon Green, Stealth Black, or a throwback Candy Red that nods to the original ‘90s model. It’s not a radical redesign, but it’s enough to make the bike feel current without alienating the millions who swear by its no-nonsense charm. This is a commuter that’s ready to roll through 2025 looking good, whether it’s parked at a tea stall or dodging rickshaws in rush hour.
Engine Evolution: Efficiency Meets a Little Extra Kick
Under the hood—or rather, beneath the tank—the 2025 Splendor Plus sticks with its trusty 97.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, but it’s not the same old mill. Hero’s engineers have dialed it up a bit, with output now hovering around 8.1 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 8.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm—small bumps from the current 7.91 bhp and 8.05 Nm. The 4-speed gearbox stays, but it’s smoother now, thanks to some behind-the-scenes tinkering. The real headline is the mileage: Hero’s claiming an ARAI-certified 80 kmpl, boosted by the i3S (Idle Start-Stop) system and refined XSens fuel injection. That’s a magic number in a country where fuel prices are a daily headache, making every ride feel like a win against the pump. It’s not built for speed—topping out around 90 kmph—but for zipping to work or hauling groceries, it’s got all the pep it needs, plus that classic Splendor thrum that’s music to any rider’s ears.
Tech Upgrades: Simple Meets Smart
The Splendor Plus has always been about keeping things simple, but 2025 brings it into the digital age—sort of. The big news is a semi-digital instrument cluster, swapping out the old analog dials for a bright display that shows speed, fuel levels, trip stats, and real-time mileage. It’s not a touchscreen or anything fancy, but it’s a practical leap for riders who want to track their fuel sipping without squinting. A USB charging port near the handlebar is a game-changer too—perfect for gig workers or anyone whose phone is their lifeline. Safety gets a nod with a side-stand engine cut-off (no more rolling off with the stand down) and an optional front disc brake on higher trims—a 240mm unit that promises sharper stops than the standard drums. The suspension—telescopic forks up front, twin shocks at the back—has been tweaked for a cushier ride over potholes, and tubeless tires could be in the mix for less roadside hassle. It’s still a basic setup, but these touches make it feel like Hero’s listening to what riders need in 2025.
Pricing: Still the People’s Bike
Price is where the Splendor Plus has always shined, and the 2025 model keeps that tradition alive. The base variant is expected to start around ₹77,000-₹80,000 (ex-showroom), with loaded trims—like the disc brake or i3S versions—topping out at ₹85,000-₹87,000. That’s a slight bump from the current ₹74,931-₹78,793 range, but it’s still a bargain compared to rivals like the Honda Shine 100 (₹66,900) or Bajaj Platina 110 (₹71,609). With a 9.8-liter tank and that 80 kmpl claim, a full fill-up could stretch over 750 km—pennies per ride for the daily grind. It’s not the cheapest 100cc out there, but the Splendor’s low maintenance, cheap parts, and Hero’s massive service network (over 6,000 touchpoints) keep the total cost of ownership in check. For families, students, or delivery riders, it’s still the budget king.
Facing the Crowd: How It Stacks Up
The 100cc-125cc commuter segment is a battlefield, and the 2025 Splendor Plus is ready to defend its turf. The Honda Shine 100 undercuts it on price and matches it on reliability, but the Splendor’s mileage edge and brand loyalty give it a leg up. The Bajaj Platina 110 offers similar efficiency (70 kmpl) and a cushier seat, but it lacks the Splendor’s resale value and widespread trust. Then there’s the TVS Radeon, with its flashy looks and decent 65 kmpl—solid, but it doesn’t have the Splendor’s decades-long grip on India’s heart. Hero’s banking on that legacy, plus these updates, to keep it atop sales charts, where it’s been outselling rivals by lakhs every year. This isn’t about stealing the youth market from sporty bikes like the Pulsar; it’s about staying the go-to for the everyman.
Why It’s Still a Big Deal
The Splendor isn’t just a bike—it’s a cultural icon. Hero MotoCorp moves over 2.5 million two-wheelers annually, and the Splendor family is the backbone of that empire, often clocking 200,000+ units sold monthly. It’s the ride that got India’s middle class moving in the ‘90s and keeps doing so today—whether it’s a farmer hauling produce, a student dodging traffic, or a Swiggy rider racing the clock. The 2025 update comes at a time when fuel costs are biting and cities are sprawling, making efficiency and affordability non-negotiable. But it’s not just about numbers; it’s about trust. Ask anyone from Delhi to a Tamil Nadu village—they’ll tell you their Splendor’s been running for years with barely a hiccup. This launch doubles down on that promise, adding just enough modern flair to keep it relevant without messing with what works.
Rollout and Reactions
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus hit the stage today, March 23, 2025, with dealerships expected to get stock by mid-April. Bookings should open soon—some whispers say as early as next week—and test rides will follow, letting riders feel out that disc brake and digital dash for themselves. The online buzz is already humming: X posts are dissecting the mileage claims, drooling over the Candy Red option, and debating if the disc brake is worth the extra cash. Bike forums are split—some call it a smart refresh, others shrug it off as “same old Splendor with a fancier face.” Dealers, though, are grinning; they know this thing’s going to fly off lots like its predecessors. Hero’s keeping production numbers under wraps, but with the Splendor’s track record, expect showrooms to be packed.
The Bottom Line: Evolution Done Right
The 2025 Hero Splendor Plus isn’t here to reinvent the commuter game—it’s here to perfect it. It’s not chasing speed freaks or adventure junkies; it’s for the millions who need a bike that starts every day, sips fuel like a miser, and shrugs off whatever the road throws at it. With sharper looks, a tech boost, and that unbeatable mileage, Hero’s ensuring the Splendor stays India’s heartbeat on two wheels. It’s evolution, not revolution—a classic reborn with just enough 2025 spice to keep the legacy rolling. As the dust settles on this launch, one thing’s clear: the Splendor Plus isn’t going anywhere except everywhere, just like always.
