Hero Splendor 125: In the vibrant tapestry of India’s two-wheeler landscape, few names resonate with the same depth and recognition as the Hero Splendor.

For decades, this humble commuter motorcycle has faithfully transported millions across the subcontinent, becoming not merely a mode of transportation but a cultural touchstone that represents reliability, efficiency, and accessibility.

With the introduction of the Hero Splendor 125, the legendary nameplate evolves to meet contemporary demands while honoring its storied legacy.

This comprehensive review explores how this latest iteration balances tradition with innovation to create a compelling package for the modern Indian rider.

Hero Splendor 125: Design Philosophy: Familiar Evolution

The Splendor 125 embraces an evolutionary rather than revolutionary design approach, maintaining the iconic silhouette that has become instantly recognizable on Indian roads.

The motorcycle features clean, straightforward lines that prioritize function over flash—a deliberate choice that speaks to the model’s utilitarian heritage while incorporating subtle modern touches.

Available in five tasteful colorways—Sparkling Blue, Noble Red, Black with Purple, Heavy Grey, and Black with Red—the Splendor 125 offers enough variety to appeal to diverse preferences without sacrificing its understated dignity.

The graphics remain restrained yet contemporary, avoiding the excessive visual clutter that characterizes many competitors.

Chrome accents on the exhaust shield, rear shocks, and select trim pieces add a premium touch without venturing into ostentation.

The newly designed headlamp housing integrates smoothly with the modest front cowl, while the reshaped fuel tank maintains familiar proportions with improved ergonomics for better rider comfort during extended journeys.

Most telling is Hero’s decision to retain certain signature elements—the distinctive tank shape, characteristic side panels, and unmistakable taillight design—that connect this modern iteration to its beloved predecessors.

This design continuity demonstrates a profound understanding that the Splendor’s appeal has always rested in its unassuming dependability rather than fleeting stylistic trends.

Ergonomics: Comfort Through Thoughtful Consideration

The Splendor 125 continues its predecessor’s reputation for all-day comfort, with a seat height of 785mm that accommodates riders of various statures.

The single-piece seat features redesigned contours with 15mm additional padding compared to the smaller-displacement model, providing improved support for both rider and passenger during extended journeys.

The upright riding position, facilitated by the natural placement of the wide handlebars and center-set footpegs, creates a neutral posture that minimizes fatigue during the daily commute.

This ergonomic thoughtfulness becomes particularly appreciated in congested urban environments where frequent stops and slow-speed maneuvers are commonplace.

Ground clearance of 180mm confidently handles the varied terrain that characterizes Indian roads, from unexpected urban obstacles to rural pathways with limited maintenance.

The wheelbase of 1,236mm strikes an effective balance between stability at highway speeds and maneuverability in tight urban spaces—a crucial consideration for a motorcycle that must excel in diverse environments.

The instrument cluster merges traditional analog elements with modern digital features, presenting essential information like speed, fuel level, and gear position in a clean, legible format that remains visible even under bright sunlight.

The inclusion of real-time fuel efficiency readings helps riders maximize economy through conscious riding habits—a thoughtful feature for the value-conscious customer segment.

Engine Performance: Balanced Efficiency and Capability

At the heart of the Splendor 125 beats a 124.7cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that embodies the balanced approach characteristic of the entire motorcycle.

Producing 10.8 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 10.6 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM, the powerplant delivers a modest but meaningful increase over the traditional 110cc variant without sacrificing the legendary reliability.

Performance Metrics	Hero Splendor 125	Competitor A	Competitor B
Displacement	124.7cc	124.8cc	123.9cc
Maximum Power	10.8 HP @ 7,500 RPM	10.6 HP @ 7,750 RPM	10.2 HP @ 7,250 RPM
Maximum Torque	10.6 Nm @ 6,000 RPM	10.3 Nm @ 6,250 RPM	10.0 Nm @ 6,000 RPM
Fuel Efficiency (Claimed)	68 km/l	65 km/l	63 km/l
0-60 km/h Time	8.2 seconds	8.5 seconds	8.7 seconds
Top Speed	94 km/h	91 km/h	90 km/h

 

The engine incorporates Hero’s proprietary i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology, which automatically shuts off the engine during extended idle periods and restarts it with a simple clutch engagement.

This thoughtful addition contributes significantly to the impressive real-world fuel efficiency, which consistently exceeds 65 km/l in mixed riding conditions—an essential consideration for the motorcycle’s target demographic.

Power delivery remains predictable and linear throughout the rev range, with sufficient low-end torque for confident urban navigation and adequate mid-range pull for overtaking maneuvers on open roads.

The five-speed transmission offers precisely defined gear shifts with a reassuring mechanical feel, while the heel-and-toe shifter accommodates both traditional and contemporary riding preferences.

Most notable is the engine’s refinement level, with vibrations well-managed even at higher revs.

The characteristic “thump” remains pleasantly present without becoming intrusive, creating an auditory signature that connects the rider to the machine without causing discomfort during extended journeys.

Ride Quality: Assured Confidence Through Simplicity

The Splendor 125 employs a conventional telescopic front fork with 120mm of travel and twin rear shock absorbers featuring 5-step preload adjustment.

This proven suspension configuration prioritizes reliability and ease of maintenance while delivering a compliant ride that absorbs typical road imperfections with composed competence.

The 18-inch wheels at both ends, shod with tubeless tires (80/100 front, 90/90 rear), provide stable handling characteristics with predictable feedback.

The larger diameter wheels compared to many competitors offer improved obstacle management on inconsistent surfaces, contributing to the motorcycle’s versatility across varied terrain.

Braking duties are handled by a 130mm drum setup on the base variant, while the higher trim levels offer a 240mm front disc with a 130mm rear drum—the latter providing noticeably improved stopping power with good modulation.

All variants feature Integrated Braking System (IBS), which partially activates the front brake when the rear brake is applied, enhancing safety during emergency stopping scenarios.

The chassis demonstrates composed manners in typical riding situations, with neutral handling characteristics that inspire confidence in riders of varying experience levels.

While not designed for aggressive cornering, the motorcycle responds predictably to rider inputs, maintaining its line through corners without nervous behavior.

Practical Considerations: Thoughtful Details for Daily Use

The Splendor 125 demonstrates its commuter-focused design through numerous practical touches that enhance daily usability.

The 11-liter fuel tank provides an effective range exceeding 700 kilometers on a single fill—an impressive figure that minimizes refueling frequency for regular commuters.

Storage provisions include a lockable underseat compartment with sufficient space for essential documents and small personal items, complemented by a practical utility box located on the inner right side panel.

The side stand indicator and engine inhibitor prevent accidental riding with the stand deployed, while the pass switch facilitates safer overtaking maneuvers on rural highways.

The electrical system has been upgraded to a fully DC setup with an LED headlamp that provides improved illumination with reduced power consumption.

The multi-reflector design creates a wider, more even spread of light that enhances nighttime visibility—a crucial safety consideration for early morning or evening commuters.

Maintenance requirements remain refreshingly straightforward, with service intervals set at 3,000 kilometers and most routine procedures accessible to mechanically inclined owners.

The widespread availability of genuine spare parts through Hero’s extensive dealer network ensures affordable long-term ownership even in remote areas—a significant advantage over more exotic competitors.

Technology Integration: Measured Modernization

While consciously avoiding technology for its own sake, the Splendor 125 incorporates several meaningful advancements that enhance the ownership experience without adding unnecessary complexity or maintenance concerns.

The programmed fuel injection system (FI) replaces the traditional carburetor, delivering more precise fueling across varying conditions while ensuring compliance with BS6 emission standards.

This technological upgrade improves cold starting, throttle response, and overall efficiency without compromising the motorcycle’s fundamental simplicity.

The enhanced digital-analog instrument cluster provides essential information at a glance, including real-time and average fuel efficiency figures that help riders develop economical riding habits.

The service reminder function alerts owners to scheduled maintenance requirements, while the low-fuel warning activates with sufficient reserve remaining for approximately 50 kilometers of travel.

Higher trim levels feature Hero’s xSens technology, which incorporates multiple sensors to optimize engine performance based on environmental conditions, load, and riding patterns.

This system continuously adjusts ignition timing and fuel delivery to balance efficiency with performance, creating a responsive yet economical riding experience across varied scenarios.

Ownership Experience: Ecosystem Advantages

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the Splendor 125 extends beyond the motorcycle itself to the ownership ecosystem that Hero has cultivated over decades.

The manufacturer’s network includes over 6,000 touchpoints across India, ensuring that service and support remain accessible regardless of location—a crucial consideration for riders in semi-urban and rural areas.

The standardized service procedures and transparent pricing structure eliminate the uncertainty that often characterizes vehicle maintenance, while the 5-year warranty package provides meaningful peace of mind that transcends the industry-standard coverage.

The Hero GoodLife Program offers additional benefits including roadside assistance, priority service, and loyalty rewards that enhance the overall ownership journey.

The motorcycle’s exceptional parts commonality with other Hero models ensures widespread spare availability and competitive pricing, while the brand’s reputation for durability translates to strong residual values that protect the owner’s financial investment.

These ecosystem advantages, though less tangible than performance specifications, significantly impact long-term satisfaction and contribute substantially to the model’s enduring appeal.

Key Takeaways:

• Balanced Performance: Sufficient power for diverse riding conditions without sacrificing efficiency

• Proven Reliability: Evolutionary development of a platform with demonstrated longevity

• Practical Design: Thoughtful features that enhance daily usability and ownership convenience

• Economical Operation: Class-leading fuel efficiency and affordable maintenance requirements

• Extensive Support Network: Unparalleled dealer and service coverage across diverse geographies

• Strong Residual Value: Depreciation protection through established market presence and reputation

Hero Splendor 125: Purposeful Progression of a Trusted Companion

The Hero Splendor 125 represents a thoughtful evolution that respects its heritage while addressing contemporary expectations.

By maintaining the core values that established the nameplate—reliability, efficiency, and accessibility—while introducing measured improvements in performance, features, and technology, Hero has created a motorcycle that remains relevant in an increasingly competitive segment.

While it may not capture attention through radical design or headline-generating specifications, the Splendor 125 delivers something potentially more valuable: a thoroughly competent daily companion that consistently fulfills its intended purpose without drama or compromise.

In a market sometimes distracted by fleeting trends and marginal innovations, this focused approach to product development deserves recognition.

For the millions of riders who depend on their motorcycles for daily transportation, livelihood support, and occasional recreation, the Splendor 125 offers a compelling balance of established virtues and thoughtful progression.

It stands as testament to the enduring relevance of motorcycles developed with clarity of purpose and deep understanding of user needs—qualities that transcend specification comparisons and marketing narratives to create genuine long-term value.