Hero Splendor 2025: In a move that signals both respect for legacy and recognition of changing market dynamics, Hero MotoCorp has unveiled the comprehensively updated 2025 Splendor, marking the most significant evolution in the history of India’s best-selling motorcycle. With over 30 million units sold since its introduction, the Splendor has become more than just a motorcycle—it’s a cultural institution that has earned the trust of generations of Indian families. The 2025 iteration aims to preserve this trusted heritage while introducing modern features, enhanced performance, and improved efficiency.
Design Evolution: Familiar yet Fresh
The 2025 Splendor maintains its instantly recognizable silhouette but receives meaningful design updates that give it a more contemporary appearance without alienating its loyal customer base. The headlamp unit has been redesigned with a LED setup featuring a distinctive light signature, while retaining the quintessential round shape that has become synonymous with the Splendor brand.
“Our design approach was guided by a simple principle—respect the icon,” explained Hero’s Design Director. “We wanted to ensure that a Splendor owner from 1994 would immediately recognize this as a Splendor, but also appreciate its evolution.”
The fuel tank receives subtle reshaping with more pronounced knee recesses and new graphics, while the side panels feature more contemporary lines. The rear section has been updated with a sleeker tail lamp assembly and redesigned grab rail that offers improved pillion comfort while maintaining the motorcycle’s clean lines.
Available in eight color variants, including three new options—Magnificent Cyan, Blazing Red, and Sterling Silver—the 2025 Splendor offers personalization choices ranging from classic, understated schemes to more vibrant options that appeal to younger riders.
The most significant visual change comes in the form of a new digital-analog instrument cluster that replaces the traditional fully analog unit. The hybrid display features an analog speedometer with an LCD panel that shows fuel level, odometer, trip meter, service reminder, and real-time fuel efficiency metrics.
Enhanced Performance and Efficiency
Under the familiar exterior lies a thoroughly modernized powertrain that represents the culmination of Hero’s engineering expertise. The 2025 Splendor is powered by an updated 110cc single-cylinder engine with programmed fuel injection, producing 9.1 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 9.89 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM—modest increases over the previous generation.
More impressive than the modest power gains is the improvement in refinement and efficiency. The engine features a redesigned combustion chamber, optimized valve timing, and reduced internal friction that contribute to a claimed fuel efficiency of 80 kilometers per liter under standard testing conditions—a figure that remains the gold standard in the segment and a crucial factor for the Splendor’s core customer base.
The updated engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 4-speed gearbox featuring an improved shift pattern and lighter clutch action that reduces fatigue during prolonged city riding. The primary drive has been redesigned with a silent chain that substantially reduces mechanical noise, addressing one of the few criticisms of the previous generation.
An automatic start-stop system, branded as i3S (Idle Stop-Start System), has been improved with faster restart capability and better integration with the overall riding experience. This system can be disabled via a handlebar-mounted switch for riders who prefer traditional operation.
Chassis and Comfort Enhancements
The 2025 Splendor retains its diamond-type frame but receives updates focused on improving ride quality and stability. The front telescopic fork features revised damping rates and increased travel (120mm, up from 110mm), while the rear twin shock absorbers receive 5-step preload adjustment and gas charging on higher variants.
“Ride comfort has always been a Splendor hallmark,” noted Hero’s Chief Engineer. “With the 2025 model, we’ve refined this quality further while simultaneously improving stability and handling precision.”
The seat has been completely redesigned with a single-piece construction featuring improved cushioning, better contours, and a premium texture that enhances both comfort and appearance. With a seat height of 785mm (5mm lower than before), the Splendor maintains its accessibility for riders of various heights.
The braking system has been upgraded with a 240mm front disc brake on premium variants, while entry-level models continue with drum brakes front and rear. All variants now feature combined braking system (CBS) that distributes braking force between front and rear wheels for improved stopping power and stability.
The wheels remain 18 inches in diameter—a size that has proven ideal for Indian road conditions—but now feature a more modern split-spoke design on alloy-equipped variants. Tubeless tires are now standard across all models, addressing a long-standing customer request.
Technology Integration: Practical Innovation
The 2025 Splendor introduces several technological features that enhance the ownership experience without compromising the motorcycle’s fundamental simplicity and reliability. The most notable addition is Hero’s i3S Connect system, which enables basic connectivity features through a smartphone application.
This system allows owners to track their motorcycle’s location, receive service reminders, access riding statistics, and view diagnostic information through their smartphone. An optional security feature enables engine immobilization via the app, adding an extra layer of theft protection.
USB charging has been integrated near the instrument cluster, allowing riders to keep their devices powered during commutes. The charging port features a weatherproof cover and is positioned to minimize distraction while riding.
Other practical technological enhancements include:
- Auto headlamp on (AHO) with brighter illumination
- Side-stand engine cut-off for improved safety
- Low fuel warning with distance-to-empty calculation
- Bank angle sensor that cuts engine power in case of a fall
- Service reminder system with maintenance alerts
Practical Considerations: Everyday Usability
True to its utilitarian roots, the 2025 Splendor incorporates numerous practical features that enhance its everyday usability. The fuel tank capacity remains 10 liters, providing a theoretical range of over 800 kilometers based on claimed efficiency figures—a boon for riders in areas with limited fuel infrastructure.
The center stand and side stand have been redesigned for easier operation, with the side stand featuring a larger foot that prevents sinking in soft surfaces. The toolbox under the seat has been enlarged to accommodate essential items, while a small storage compartment has been added near the fuel cap for keeping toll receipts or small documents.
The electrical system has been completely overhauled with improved waterproofing of connectors and simplified wiring harness that enhances reliability while making servicing easier. LED lighting throughout reduces power consumption and improves visibility, addressing a common pain point with the previous generation’s halogen setup.
Manufacturing and Sustainability
Hero has emphasized the Splendor’s environmental credentials, noting that the 2025 model exceeds BS6 Phase II emission norms by a significant margin. The manufacturing process has been optimized to reduce carbon footprint, with the company’s Dharuhera facility now partially powered by renewable energy.
The motorcycle features 94% recyclable components by weight, and Hero has established a comprehensive recycling program for end-of-life vehicles. Packaging materials have been redesigned to eliminate single-use plastics, aligning with Hero’s broader sustainability initiatives.
Market Positioning and Pricing Strategy
With prices starting at ₹72,000 for the base drum brake variant and extending to ₹85,000 for the top-spec Splendor+ with disc brake and i3S Connect (ex-showroom), the 2025 Splendor maintains its value proposition in an increasingly competitive segment.
Hero expects the mid-range variants to constitute approximately 65% of sales, with rural markets continuing to favor the more affordable options. The company has also introduced attractive financing schemes, including industry-first 48-month loan terms with minimal documentation requirements—a significant advantage for customers in semi-urban and rural areas.
Conclusion: Honoring Legacy While Embracing Progress
The 2025 Hero Splendor represents a thoughtful evolution of India’s most iconic motorcycle, enhancing its fundamental strengths while carefully introducing modern features that add genuine value to the ownership experience.
By maintaining the motorcycle’s legendary reliability, efficiency, and accessibility while addressing previous limitations, Hero has ensured that the Splendor remains relevant in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven market. The updates acknowledge changing consumer expectations without compromising the core attributes that have made the Splendor a trusted companion for millions of Indian families.
As Hero MotoCorp’s Chairman summarized during the unveiling: “The Splendor isn’t just a product—it’s a national institution that has earned the trust of generations. The 2025 model honors that legacy while ensuring the Splendor remains as relevant to today’s riders as it was to their parents and grandparents.”
In a motorcycle market increasingly segmented and specialized, the refreshed Splendor stands as a reminder that fundamental virtues—reliability, efficiency, comfort, and value—never go out of style. With its 2025 update, India’s favorite motorcycle appears well-positioned to maintain its remarkable three-decade reign as the country’s best-selling two-wheeler.