Hero Splendor Plus Xtec : The Hero Splendor Plus Xtec represents a significant milestone in the evolution of India’s most iconic commuter motorcycle. For over two decades, the Splendor has dominated Indian roads, earning an unrivaled reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and value.

With the Xtec variant introduced in 2022, Hero MotoCorp has carefully modernized this trusted platform without compromising the fundamental attributes that made it a household name

By integrating contemporary features and subtle design refinements, the Splendor Plus Xtec aims to bridge the gap between traditional commuting needs and modern technological expectations, ensuring the nameplate’s relevance for a new generation of riders while retaining its appeal to loyal customers who have trusted the brand for decades.

Hero Splendor Plus Xtec Heritage and Evolution

Few vehicles in automotive history can claim the cultural significance of the Hero Splendor in India. Since its introduction in the late 1990s (initially as the Hero Honda Splendor before the partnership dissolution), this unassuming commuter motorcycle has consistently ranked among the world’s highest-selling two-wheelers, with cumulative sales exceeding 30 million units.

This remarkable achievement stems from the model’s perfect alignment with Indian commuting requirements—reliability, affordability, and exceptional fuel efficiency.

The Xtec variant represents Hero’s most comprehensive attempt to future-proof this iconic platform. While maintaining the core mechanical package that earned consumer trust, the Xtec introduces digital instrumentation, connectivity features, and refined aesthetics that acknowledge changing consumer expectations without alienating traditional buyers.

This evolution reflects Hero MotoCorp’s understanding that while the fundamental needs of commuter motorcyclists remain largely unchanged, their technological expectations have evolved considerably.

Design and Visual Enhancements

The Splendor Plus Xtec retains the recognizable silhouette that has become virtually synonymous with “motorcycle” in the Indian context. The timeless design features a simple, horizontal tank, clean lines, and practical proportions optimized for everyday usability rather than visual drama.

Hero’s designers have wisely preserved this familiar profile while introducing subtle refinements that create a more contemporary appearance.

The most noticeable exterior updates include:

• Redesigned headlamp housing with integrated LED daytime running light

• Premium chrome accents on the mirrors and exhaust shield

• New graphic schemes with 3D badging on the fuel tank

• Body-colored components (previously black on standard variants)

• Updated seat texture and stitching patterns

• Refreshed tail lamp design with clear lens indicators

• Machined finish on alloy wheels (in select colors)

These enhancements, while subtle individually, collectively create a noticeably more premium aesthetic without dramatically altering the motorcycle’s identity.

The restrained approach acknowledges the conservative preferences of the Splendor’s core customer base, many of whom value continuity and recognition over radical styling changes.

Technology Integration

The “Xtec” designation primarily references the technological upgrades that distinguish this variant from the standard Splendor Plus. These additions represent Hero’s most ambitious attempt to incorporate modern features into their entry-level lineup:

• Full digital instrument cluster with blue backlight

• Bluetooth connectivity with call and SMS alerts

• Mobile phone charging USB port

• Real-time mileage indicator

• Low fuel indicator with distance-to-empty calculation

• Service reminder function

• Bank angle sensor with side-stand engine cut-off

• Integrated i3S start-stop technology for improved fuel efficiency

• LED headlamp with auto headlamp on (AHO) function

• Emergency blinkers activated by long-press of the indicator switch

The digital instrument cluster stands as the most significant upgrade, replacing the traditional analog speedometer with a comprehensive display that communicates essential information more clearly while enabling additional functionality through Bluetooth connectivity.

Though limited compared to premium segment offerings, these connected features represent meaningful enhancements for the target demographic, many of whom may be experiencing such technology on a two-wheeler for the first time.

Engine and Performance

The 97.2cc single-cylinder engine remains largely unchanged from the standard Splendor Plus, maintaining the same output figures and four-speed transmission. This continuation reflects Hero’s understanding that for the target audience, reliability and efficiency far outweigh performance metrics.

The engine’s character emphasizes accessible torque at low and mid-range rpm, catering to urban commuting patterns with frequent stops and starts.

The transition to programmed fuel injection (previously carburetor in older models) represents the most significant mechanical update in recent years, improving throttle response, cold starting, and emissions compliance.

The i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) automatically cuts the engine when idling for more than 5 seconds and restarts it with a clutch pull, contributing to the impressive real-world fuel efficiency that remains the model’s primary selling point.

Acceleration and top speed figures remain modest by contemporary standards—reaching 60 km/h takes approximately 8.5 seconds, and the maximum velocity hovers around 87 km/h.

However, these statistics miss the point of the Splendor’s engineering philosophy, which prioritizes tractability and fuel economy over outright performance. The engine’s true strength lies in its exceptional reliability, with many units regularly exceeding 100,000 kilometers with basic maintenance.

Ride Quality and Handling

The Splendor Plus Xtec’s ride characteristics exemplify the focused engineering approach that has defined the platform for decades. The tubular double cradle frame provides adequate rigidity while keeping weight to a minimum, contributing to the motorcycle’s nimble handling in congested urban environments

At just 112 kg (wet weight), the Splendor remains accessible to riders of all physical builds and experience levels.

Suspension components maintain the proven configuration of telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers (front) and 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers (rear). Though basic by modern standards, this setup delivers remarkable comfort over varied road surfaces, absorbing small bumps and potholes with composure.

The tuning prioritizes compliance over sportiness, acknowledging that for the target user, comfort during daily commuting far outweighs cornering dynamics.

The 18-inch wheels (larger than many competitors in the segment) contribute to stability and obstacle management, particularly valuable on rural roads where surface quality can vary dramatically.

Braking comes via 130mm drum brakes front and rear, with an integrated braking system (IBS) that distributes braking force between both wheels when the rear brake is applied—a simplified alternative to more complex and expensive ABS systems.

Practicality and Everyday Usability

• Exceptional fuel efficiency (60-70 km/l in real-world conditions)

• Range exceeding 600 kilometers on a full tank

• Comfortable, upright riding position reducing fatigue

• Low 785mm seat height accommodating riders of various statures

• Lightweight handling ideal for navigating congested traffic

• Adequate ground clearance (159mm) for tackling rough roads

• Generous luggage carrying capacity with standard rear rack

• Simple maintenance requirements with widely available parts

• Class-leading reliability with minimal downtime

• Strong resale value retention

The Splendor Plus Xtec’s greatest strength remains its unmatched practicality for daily transportation needs. The exceptional fuel efficiency—routinely delivering 60-70 kilometers per liter in real-world mixed riding—translates to operating costs that remain unmatched by other motorized transport options

. When combined with the 9.8-liter fuel tank, this efficiency enables a theoretical range exceeding 600 kilometers, minimizing refueling stops for regular commuters.

Ergonomics favor comfort over sportiness, with a natural, upright riding position that reduces fatigue during extended use.

The seat height of 785mm accommodates riders across a wide range of physical statures, while the narrow profile simplifies foot placement at stops—an important consideration for less experienced riders. The handlebar position allows precise control without placing stress on wrists or shoulders, further enhancing comfort during daily use.

Maintenance requirements remain refreshingly straightforward, with service intervals set at 3,000 kilometers for oil changes and basic inspections. The mechanical simplicity ensures that repairs, when needed, can be performed quickly and affordably at any of Hero’s extensive service network locations or independent workshops throughout the country.

Market Position and Target Audience

The Splendor Plus Xtec occupies a carefully considered position in Hero’s expansive commuter lineup. Priced marginally higher than the standard Splendor Plus but below the more feature-rich Glamour, it targets buyers seeking essential modern features without stepping up to larger displacement options.

This positioning acknowledges the brand’s core strength in the 100cc segment while providing an upgrade path for existing customers.

The primary target audience encompasses several distinct groups:

• First-time motorcycle purchasers seeking reliability and economy

• Rural and semi-urban customers requiring dependable daily transportation

• Existing Splendor owners looking to upgrade to a more contemporary variant

• Small business operators using the motorcycle for light commercial purposes

• Value-conscious urban commuters prioritizing operating costs over performance

While competitors like the Honda Shine, Bajaj Platina, and TVS Radeon offer similar fundamental attributes, the Splendor’s unmatched brand equity and proven reliability record continue to give it a significant advantage, particularly in rural markets where service infrastructure and parts availability remain critical considerations.

Ownership Experience

Long-term ownership reports highlight several consistent themes across generations of the Splendor platform. Positive feedback invariably centers on the exceptional fuel efficiency, minimal maintenance requirements, and impressive durability even under challenging conditions.

Many owners report trouble-free operation well beyond 80,000 kilometers with only basic servicing—a testament to the engineering focus on longevity rather than performance or feature proliferation.

Criticisms, when expressed, typically focus on the relatively basic nature of the motorcycle compared to newer offerings. The limited performance can frustrate riders transitioning from more powerful machines, particularly during highway riding where the 97.2cc engine operates near its limits at sustained speeds above 70 km/h. Wind protection remains minimal by design, making longer journeys less comfortable, though this rarely impacts the typical usage pattern of short to medium-distance commuting.

Hero Splendor Plus Xtec Conclusion

The Hero Splendor Plus Xtec represents a thoughtful evolution of India’s most trusted commuter motorcycle. By carefully integrating modern features without compromising the fundamental attributes that established the platform’s reputation, Hero has ensured the Splendor’s continued relevance in an increasingly competitive market.

The digital instrumentation, connectivity features, and refined aesthetics address changing consumer expectations without alienating the traditional customer base that values reliability and economy above all else.

In many ways, the Splendor Plus Xtec embodies the measured approach to product development that has defined Hero MotoCorp’s success in the Indian market. Rather than chasing trends or introducing features for their own sake, the company has identified genuine user needs and implemented solutions that enhance the ownership experience without compromising the motorcycle’s core identity.

This evolutionary rather than revolutionary approach acknowledges that for millions of riders, the motorcycle represents essential transportation rather than a lifestyle accessory.

As India’s automotive landscape continues to evolve with increasing electrification and connectivity, the Splendor Plus Xtec demonstrates that there remains substantial demand for well-executed conventional solutions that prioritize dependability and value.

While unlikely to capture headlines or generate excitement among enthusiasts, it continues to excel in its intended purpose—providing reliable, economical transportation for millions of Indians whose livelihoods depend on affordable mobility.

In a market increasingly dominated by marketing narratives around technology and performance, the Splendor Plus Xtec’s continued success serves as a reminder that fundamental attributes like reliability, efficiency, and value retention often matter more to consumers than specification sheet superiority or design flourishes.

This understanding has kept the Splendor nameplate at the heart of Indian motorcycling for over two decades—a position the Xtec variant seems well-positioned to maintain for years to come.