Hero Splendor 135: Few motorcycles have shaped India’s mobility landscape as profoundly as the Hero Splendor.

Since its introduction in 1994, this unassuming commuter has transcended its status as a mere vehicle to become a cultural institution, a reliable companion to millions of Indians in their daily journeys.

With cumulative sales exceeding 35 million units, the Splendor nameplate stands as the world’s highest-selling motorcycle model, a testament to its perfectly calibrated balance of efficiency, reliability, and accessibility.

The 2025 Hero Splendor 135 represents the most significant evolution in this storied lineage, introducing a larger displacement engine while preserving the fundamental virtues that cemented its legendary status in the Indian market.

This thoughtful reinvention acknowledges changing consumer expectations and competitive pressures while respecting the Splendor’s heritage as the definitive everyday motorcycle for the masses.

Hero Splendor 135: Heritage and Cultural Significance

The Splendor’s influence extends far beyond transportation metrics, permeating India’s socioeconomic fabric as an enabler of mobility, livelihood, and independence.

From small business owners delivering goods to office workers commuting in congested cities, from rural healthcare workers reaching remote villages to students accessing education, the Splendor has facilitated countless individual journeys and collective progress.

This cultural position creates unique expectations for any new iteration – it must honor this legacy while adapting to contemporary realities.

The 2025 Splendor 135 acknowledges this responsibility through thoughtful design that respects traditional users while addressing evolving needs and aspirations.

Hero’s approach reflects deep understanding that the Splendor isn’t merely transportation but rather a trusted tool enabling livelihoods and daily life for millions of Indians.

Strategic Positioning and Market Context

The introduction of the Splendor 135 represents Hero MotoCorp’s strategic response to several market dynamics. First, the gradual upward migration of commuter segment customers seeking more performance without abandoning core efficiency and reliability priorities.

Second, intensifying competition from both domestic and international manufacturers introducing feature-rich options in the 125-150cc category.

Third, changing regulatory requirements around emissions and safety that necessitate technological advancement.

By positioning the Splendor 135 between the traditional 100-110cc commuters and the more performance-oriented 150-160cc motorcycles, Hero creates a compelling intermediate option that maintains the Splendor’s approachable character while delivering enhanced capabilities for increasingly demanding riding conditions and user expectations.

Design Evolution and Visual Identity

The exterior design of the 2025 Splendor 135 embodies what Hero calls “Familiar Progression” – respecting the recognizable silhouette and proportions while introducing contemporary elements that signal advancement without alienation.

The overall profile maintains the classic commuter motorcycle stance with neutral ergonomics and practical considerations taking precedence over stylistic flourishes.

The front section features redesigned headlamp housing with LED elements integrated into a more angular shape, flanked by updated position lamps that enhance visibility and modern appearance.

The fuel tank receives subtle resculpting with more defined character lines and knee recesses, while side panels incorporate contemporary graphics that add visual interest without excessive embellishment.

At the rear, the tail lamp assembly adopts LED technology with a distinctive light signature improving both safety and aesthetic appeal. The exhaust system features a reshaped muffler with matte finish heat shield and polished tip, balancing traditional expectations with modern design sensibilities.

Color options include both traditional choices appealing to conservative buyers and contemporary options attracting younger consumers:

1. Ceremonial Red (with black and silver accents)

2. Nexus Blue (metallic with subtle graphics)

3. Vault Black (with gray striping)

4. Harvest Gold (traditional Hero signature color)

5. Platinum Silver (metallic with red accents)

6. Matte Terrain Brown (new earthy tone)

Material quality sees noticeable improvement throughout, with higher-grade plastics, more consistent panel fitment, and enhanced paint finish collectively elevating perceived quality beyond previous generations and competitive offerings.

Engine Performance and Efficiency

The heart of the 2025 Splendor 135 is its all-new 134.5cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, representing the most significant powertrain advancement in the model’s history:

The engine features several notable technical innovations:

• i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) automatically shutting off the engine at traffic stops

• Advanced combustion chamber design with optimized swirl characteristics

• XSens technology incorporating multiple sensors for precise fueling

• Integrated oil cooler enhancing thermal stability in demanding conditions

• Reduced internal friction through improved bearings and surface treatments

• Balancer shaft significantly reducing vibrations at higher RPMs

While delivering approximately 25% more power and torque than the traditional Splendor engine, the 135cc unit maintains exceptional fuel efficiency through sophisticated engine management and reduced frictional losses.

The power delivery is deliberately calibrated to prioritize tractable low-end and mid-range performance rather than outright top-end power, aligning with typical usage patterns prioritizing urban commuting and occasional highway travel.

Chassis, Suspension, and Riding Dynamics

The 2025 Splendor 135 is built around a redesigned diamond frame that offers improved torsional rigidity while maintaining the light weight essential for easy handling.

The wheelbase extends slightly to 1,270mm (from 1,235mm) enhancing stability at higher speeds without compromising maneuverability in congested urban environments.

The suspension system sees meaningful upgrades with telescopic front forks replacing the traditional hydraulic dampers, offering 120mm of travel and significantly improved absorption of road imperfections.

At the rear, twin 5-step adjustable shock absorbers with 80mm travel allow customization based on load conditions and personal preference.

Braking performance receives particular attention with a 240mm front disc brake standard on higher variants (optional on base models), complemented by a 130mm rear drum brake.

A combined braking system (CBS) provides balanced deceleration by automatically applying appropriate force to both wheels when the rear brake is activated.

The Splendor 135 adopts 18-inch alloy wheels (front) and 17-inch (rear) shod with tubeless tires (80/100-18 front, 90/90-17 rear) developed specifically for Indian conditions, offering excellent durability while providing confident grip on diverse surfaces from smooth highways to unpaved rural roads.

Ground clearance increases to 180mm (from 159mm) addressing a common pain point when navigating rough terrain or substantial speed breakers.

The improved suspension travel and ground clearance collectively enhance capability on the varied road conditions encountered across India, from urban potholes to rural unpaved paths.

Ergonomics and Comfort Features

Rider comfort receives comprehensive attention in the 2025 Splendor 135:

• Redesigned seat with 15mm additional length and improved cushioning

• Neutral footpeg position balancing comfort and control

• Slightly raised handlebar position reducing wrist strain during longer rides

• Extended wheelbase creating more spacious rider triangle

• Rubber-mounted engine and handlebar reducing vibration transfer

• Heel-and-toe shifter accommodating different footwear choices

• Wider pillion seat with improved grab rail design

These enhancements collectively improve comfort during both short urban commutes and longer intercity travel without compromising the familiar riding position that millions of users have grown accustomed to. The seat height remains accessible at 785mm, accommodating riders of varying statures – a critical consideration given the diverse physical dimensions of Indian consumers.

Technology Integration and Features

Technology features see meaningful enhancement in the 2025 Splendor 135, though implemented with characteristic restraint prioritizing practical functionality over novelty:

• LCD instrument cluster with digital speedometer, odometer, and trip meter

• Real-time fuel efficiency indicator and distance-to-empty calculation

• Service reminder and malfunction indicator

• USB-C charging port with weather-resistant cover

• i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) with manual override option

• AHO (Automatic Headlamp On) for enhanced visibility

• LED position lamps and tail lamp with conventional halogen headlight

Higher variants add further features:

• Bluetooth connectivity enabling basic smartphone pairing for call alerts

• Turn-by-turn navigation indicators

• Find-my-vehicle functionality

• Remote diagnostics through Hero app

These technological additions enhance everyday utility without introducing complexity or fragility – critical considerations for a motorcycle often operating in challenging environments with limited access to specialized service infrastructure.

Practical Utility and Everyday Functionality

Practical utility remains paramount in the Splendor 135 design philosophy:

• 12-liter fuel tank providing approximately 780-840km range

• Lockable under-seat storage accommodating essential items

• Center stand and side stand with engine cut-off safety feature

• Heavy-duty carrier rack with 15kg capacity (standard or accessory depending on variant)

• Robust chain cover protecting clothing and preventing contamination

• Front mudguard extension reducing spray in wet conditions

• Engine bash plate on higher variants protecting against debris

The motorcycle also features sensible touches like a carburetor heater preventing starting issues in cold conditions, metal fuel tank resistant to ethanol degradation, and wiring harness with improved water resistance – all reflecting deep understanding of real-world usage challenges across India’s diverse environments.

Maintenance and Ownership Experience

Hero has focused intensively on enhancing the ownership experience, acknowledging that for many users, the Splendor represents a significant investment requiring predictable operating costs:

• Service intervals extended to 6,000km/6 months (from 3,000km/3 months)

• Simplified maintenance procedures reducing labor time and costs

• Tubeless tires improving puncture repair convenience

• Digital service records accessible through Hero app

• Enhanced warranty coverage of 5-years/70,000km (extended from 3-years/30,000km)

• Fixed-price service packages with predictable lifetime costs

• Genuine parts availability guaranteed for 10 years

The company’s unparalleled service network remains a decisive advantage, with over 6,000 touchpoints across India ensuring support is readily accessible even in remote regions. The Splendor 135’s mechanical design maintains the approachable simplicity that enables basic maintenance by local mechanics in areas without authorized service centers – a critical consideration for rural users.

Variant Structure and Pricing

The 2025 Splendor 135 is offered in three primary trim levels:

This tiered approach maintains accessibility at the entry level while offering enhanced features for those willing to invest in convenience and technology. The pricing strategy positions the Splendor 135 as a premium offering within the commuter segment while maintaining value relative to 150cc alternatives.

Target Demographics

The 2025 Splendor 135 targets multiple customer segments:

• Traditional Splendor owners seeking more performance without abandoning familiarity

• Urban commuters requiring efficient daily transportation with occasional highway capability

• Rural users needing dependable, low-maintenance transportation on varied terrain

• Small business owners utilizing motorcycles for delivery and service operations

• First-time motorcycle buyers seeking a versatile, future-proof investment

Market research indicates particular resonance among the 25-40 age demographic balancing practical considerations with modest performance expectations, and among existing Splendor owners with 5+ years of ownership looking to upgrade while maintaining brand loyalty.

Key Strengths and Considerations

Notable Strengths:

• Exceptional fuel efficiency despite increased displacement

• Proven reliability DNA with enhanced capability

• Extensive service network ensuring peace of mind

• Balanced performance suitable for diverse usage scenarios

• Strong resale value supported by brand reputation

• Thoughtful practical features addressing real-world usage

• Improved suspension and ground clearance enhancing versatility

Considerations:

• Conservative styling may not appeal to style-conscious younger buyers

• Performance still modest compared to sporty 150cc alternatives

• Limited technological features compared to premium segment offerings

• Higher initial cost than traditional 100-110cc commuters

Environmental and Social Impact

The 2025 Splendor 135 demonstrates increased environmental consciousness:

• BS6 Phase 2 compliant with significantly reduced emissions

• i3S technology reducing fuel consumption and emissions in traffic

• Enhanced durability extending useful lifecycle

• Improved materials recyclability at end-of-life

• Manufacturing process with reduced environmental footprint

Hero has also integrated the Splendor 135 into its corporate social responsibility initiatives, including rider training programs promoting safety awareness and skill development particularly focused on new riders and women’s empowerment through mobility.

Hero Splendor 135

The 2025 Hero Splendor 135 represents a thoughtful evolution of India’s most iconic motorcycle, preserving its fundamental virtues while meaningfully enhancing capabilities to meet contemporary expectations.

By increasing displacement and incorporating modern features without abandoning the core principles of efficiency, reliability, and accessibility, Hero has created a motorcycle that honors the Splendor’s heritage while ensuring its continued relevance in a changing market landscape.

The Splendor 135 acknowledges that for millions of Indians, a motorcycle is not a recreational indulgence but rather an essential tool enabling livelihood, mobility, and progress.

Its balanced approach prioritizes the attributes most valued by these users – predictable operating costs, everyday usability, and long-term dependability – while introducing enough advancement to remain competitive in an evolving marketplace.

For existing Splendor owners seeking familiar reliability with enhanced capability, new customers entering the two-wheeler market, or riders looking to downsize from more complex motorcycles, the 2025 Splendor 135 makes a compelling case as the definitive everyday motorcycle for modern India.

Its thoughtful blend of tradition and advancement ensures this automotive icon will continue serving as a trusted companion to millions of Indians in their daily journeys and life aspirations.

Also read this: 

New Honda Activa will be launch soon for impress college girls