Hero MotoCorp is stirring things up with the new Hero Splendor 125, set to hit the streets this month in 2025. The Splendor name has been a favorite in India for years, known for being reliable and easy on the pocket, and now it’s getting a beefier engine and some fresh upgrades. Let’s break down what this bike might bring for daily riders looking for a mix of power, style, and savings.
A Familiar Look With A Modern Kick
The Splendor 125 keeps the classic shape that everyone knows, but it’s got some sharper touches to make it feel new. Expect bold graphics on the body, a sleek LED headlamp with daytime running lights to brighten up the road, and alloy wheels that give it a sportier vibe. The design stays simple but adds a bit of flair with dual-tone colors—think combos like Black with Red or Blue. It’s likely around 2000 mm long, 750 mm wide, and 1050 mm tall, based on the Splendor family’s usual setup. It might weigh about 123 kg, light enough to weave through city streets, and sit 165 mm off the deck, which is decent for dodging speed bumps but might scrape on rough village roads. You’ll probably get 18-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, making flats less of a hassle.
A Stronger Engine For Smoother Rides
The big news is the 125cc air-cooled engine, which is expected to pump out around 10.7 bhp at 7500 rpm and 10.6 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm. That’s a nice step up from the smaller Splendor models, giving you more punch for city traffic or carrying a friend on the back. It’ll likely come with a 5-speed gearbox, which should make highway rides a bit more relaxed compared to the 4-speed setups on older Splendors. Hero claims a mileage of 90 kmpl, but let’s be real—in city conditions, you’re more likely to see 75-80 kmpl, based on what similar bikes like the Super Splendor get. The 10L tank should let you go 750 to 800 km on a full fill. It’s got Hero’s i3S tech, which shuts off the engine at stops to save fuel, and it meets BS6 Phase 2 rules, so it’s cleaner for the air.
Rides Easy On City Streets
The Splendor 125 is built on a tubular diamond frame, with telescopic forks up front and 5-step adjustable shocks in the back to handle potholes. The wheelbase is probably around 1280 mm, keeping it steady when you’re dodging cars. At 165 mm off the ground, it’s good for urban roads but might struggle on rougher patches—some folks on X have mentioned similar Splendor models feeling soft on bad village roads. Brakes are expected to be a front disc at 240 mm and a rear drum at 130 mm, with CBS for safer stops, and higher trims might even add ABS, which is a nice safety boost. It should feel nimble in traffic, but don’t expect a super plush ride on bumpy roads with its 123 kg build.
Handy Features For Daily Use
This Splendor isn’t loaded with fancy tech, but it’s got what you need. Expect a semi-digital cluster with an analog speedometer and an LCD showing fuel, mileage, and trip data—great for keeping track of your rides. There’s an LED headlamp with DRLs, a USB charging port to keep your phone alive, and a side-stand engine cut-off for safety. Hero’s i3S tech helps save fuel in traffic, but don’t look for Bluetooth or navigation—those might come in future updates. It’s a 2-seater with a comfy seat for you and a pillion, no third row. There’s probably a small storage spot near the tank, but don’t expect underseat space. Some riders on X wish it had more tech like the TVS Raider, but it keeps things simple and practical.
Keeps Your Fuel Bill Low
Hero says the Splendor 125 gets 90 kmpl, but real-world numbers are more like 75-80 kmpl in the city. With a 10L tank, you’re looking at 750 to 800 km per fill, saving you around ₹9,000 a year at ₹100/litre compared to a 50 kmpl bike. That’s about ₹1.2 to ₹1.5 per km to run, which is awesome for a 125cc bike. The BS6 Phase 2 engine cuts emissions, and the i3S system helps in traffic, though some folks on X doubt the 90 kmpl claim, saying it’s more marketing than reality. At 123 kg, its light build helps keep fuel use down, and Hero’s production focuses on sustainability, which is a plus.
Price And Options In India
The Splendor 125 is expeted to start at ₹82,000 to ₹89,000 ex-showroom, with on-road prices in Delhi around ₹90,000 to ₹97,000. EMIs might start at ₹2,800/month with a ₹10,000 downpayment at 8% interest for 3 years. It’ll likely come in 2-3 variants—base with drum brakes, and a top trim with a front disc and maybe ABS. Colors could include Black with Red, Black with Blue, or Silver, based on what’s been reported. Hero sold 16,800 Splendor units in March 2025, so this model should be a hit too. Delivery might take 15-30 days, and festive deals through Diwali 2025 could throw in perks like free helmets—check local dealers for test rides.
Bikes It’s Up Against
The Splendor 125 competes with:
TVS Raider 125 (₹80,848): 11.2 bhp, 55 kmpl, sportier but less efficient.
Bajaj Pulsar 125 (₹90,000): 11.8 bhp, 48 kmpl, punchier but heavier.
Honda SP 125 (₹89,468): 10.87 bhp, 65 kmpl, more power but thirstier.
The Splendor’s mileage and price give it an edge for budget riders, but Raider offers more tech, and Pulsar has more power.
What You Should Know Before Buying
The Splendor 125’s ₹82,000 starting price is solid, but the top trim might feel pricey at ₹89,000 compared to the Raider’s ₹80,848, which has Bluetooth. At 123 kg, it’s easy to handle, but the 165 mm ground clearance might scrape on rough roads—something to watch for outside cities. Mileage could drop to 70 kmpl in heavy traffic. It’s a 2-seater, no third row. The tech is basic compared to rivals, and some folks on X mention Hero’s service can be hit-or-miss in smaller towns. It’s also not built for long highway rides—more for city commutes and short trips.
Who This Bike Is For
The Splendor 125 is for young riders or commuters who want a reliable 2-wheeler with 75-80 kmpl mileage and a bit more power than the 100cc models. CBS and a light build make it great for city rides, while the classic design appeals to those who want something trusted. It’s not for those needing high-tech features, long-distance comfort, or a bike for rough terrain.
Where To Find It
The Splendor 125 should be at Hero’s 2000+ dealerships across India—like in Delhi or Mumbai—since its launch this month. Book online through Hero’s e-shop or Flipkart. Metro cities might deliver in 15 days, smaller towns in 30 days. Festive deals through Diwali 2025 might add perks—check for Red or Blue colors and test rides.
Hero Splendor 125: A Reliable Ride With Extra Power
The Hero Splendor 125 has a 125cc engine, 75-80 kmpl real-world mileage, and starts at ₹82,000. You get CBS, LED lights, and a classic design. It lacks modern tech and might struggle on rough roads, but it’s a great pick for efficiency and trust. Perfect for city commuters who want a Splendor with a bit more punch in 2025.
Disclaimer: Specs and prices are based on recent reports. Check with Hero dealers for the latest details.