Hero Splendor 135 Bike – The Hero Splendor has long been a dominant presence on Indian roads, symbolizing trustworthiness, efficiency, and affordability for millions of daily riders. With the launch of the Splendor 135, Hero MotoCorp has reimagined its iconic offering to align with modern-day consumer expectations, all while retaining the traits that made the original so widely loved.
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This article delves into the origin, specifications, market strategy, and social significance of the Hero Splendor 135 amid India’s fast-evolving two-wheeler ecosystem.
Hero Splendor 135 Bike : Carrying Forward the Splendor Legacy
Very few motorcycles have reached the iconic status the Hero Splendor enjoys in India. Launched in the 1990s as a joint venture between Hero and Honda, the Splendor has consistently been among the top-selling motorcycles nationwide, with lifetime sales surpassing 30 million units.This exceptional achievement made the Splendor more than just a motorcycle—it became a cultural symbol of affordable mobility for India’s growing middle-income population.
Its success stemmed from its perfect alignment with Indian riders’ key priorities: outstanding mileage, low maintenance, dependable performance, and budget-friendly pricing.Even after the Hero-Honda partnership ended in 2010, Hero MotoCorp maintained the Splendor’s leadership by making incremental upgrades while staying true to its core character.Now, the introduction of the Splendor 135 marks the most substantial evolution in the model’s history—honoring its roots while stepping into the future.
Design & Market Placement
The development of the Splendor 135 stems from Hero’s understanding of shifting consumer preferences in the entry-level commuter segment.While loyal Splendor customers have traditionally emphasized utility, today’s buyers—especially younger riders—look for added performance, stylish design, and modern features alongside the brand’s trusted reliability.
Hero’s market insights revealed that existing customers often switched to more powerful 150-180cc bikes from rival brands like Bajaj and TVS when seeking enhanced performance.The Splendor 135 was designed to keep these customers within the Hero brand by providing a solid performance upgrade without losing the qualities that define the Splendor name.
Hero positions the Splendor 135 as a “premium commuter,” a segment that bridges standard 100-110cc commuters and higher-capacity 150cc machines.This smart positioning caters to the evolving demands of riders who now consider aspirational elements alongside practicality.
Technical Highlights and Engineering Innovations
At the heart of the Splendor 135 is an all-new 134.5cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces around 11.5 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.5 Nm torque at 6,000 rpm. This marks a significant improvement over the original Splendor’s 97.2cc engine. Despite the power boost, the new engine maintains exceptional fuel economy—delivering approximately 60–65 km/l under standard conditions. Hero achieved this balance through:
- Refined combustion chamber for better fuel burn
- High-precision components minimizing internal resistance
- Electronic fuel injection ensuring optimal fuel delivery
- Five-speed gearbox tuned for both city and highway use
The chassis features a reliable double-cradle tubular frame. Suspension comes via telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload—delivering comfort and balanced handling.
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A 240mm disc brake up front and a 130mm rear drum enhance braking safety compared to the older all-drum setup. The bike also rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres—adding convenience and safety in case of punctures.
Design Language and Style
The Splendor 135 offers a familiar yet refreshed look. It maintains the upright ergonomic profile typical of commuter bikes but adds several modern touches:
- Sharper fuel tank with aggressive lines
- LED headlamp, DRLs, and tail lamps
- Sporty graphics and fresh color options
- Refined side panels and redesigned tail section
- Digital-analog instrument cluster blending tech with tradition
The clean, minimalistic aesthetic promises long-term appeal, avoiding short-lived design fads while retaining wide audience acceptance.
Feature Suite and Technology
While staying value-focused, the Splendor 135 adds many features not seen in previous Splendor models:
- Programmed fuel injection for smooth performance
- USB port for device charging
- Idle start-stop function for better fuel saving
- Always-on LED headlight for visibility
- Real-time mileage readout
- Combined Braking System (CBS) for safer stops
Top-end trims also offer smartphone connectivity for alerts, navigation assistance, and service updates—targeting younger, tech-savvy riders.
Market Response and Sales Momentum
Since its debut, the Splendor 135 has carved a strong presence. Though it won’t match the standard Splendor’s legendary sales volume, it serves two growing user groups:
- Longtime Splendor users wanting a performance upgrade
- New customers with slightly higher budgets seeking more modern options from a trusted brand
With monthly sales of 15,000–20,000 units, the 135 brings meaningful volume in its segment and even stronger margins for Hero. This boosts profitability despite lower unit sales compared to the base model.Dealers report positive feedback, noting the bike is successfully retaining customers who might otherwise switch to rival brands for an upgrade.
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Production and Distribution Strategy
The Splendor 135 is manufactured at Hero’s cutting-edge factories in Haridwar and Neemrana. Hero’s efficient production methods and large-scale procurement help it keep prices in check despite upgraded components.With a vast network of over 6,000 outlets across India, even smaller towns and rural markets have easy access to the Splendor 135—something many competitors can’t match.
This wide availability further strengthens Hero’s position, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where trust in the Splendor name runs deep.
Rivals and Segment Dynamics
The Splendor 135 faces stiff competition from models like:
- Bajaj Pulsar 125 (sporty appeal)
- Honda SP 125 (refinement and quality)
- TVS Raider 125 (feature-rich)
- Yamaha Saluto (dependability)
In contrast, the Splendor 135 stands out with its proven durability, expansive service network, and high resale value—benefits that resonate deeply with value-conscious Indian buyers. Priced above 125cc bikes but below 150cc models, the 135 creates an appealing middle ground for those wanting both efficiency and some extra performance.
Cultural Relevance and Changing Buyer Mindset
More than just transport, the Splendor 135 reflects a shift in consumer mindset.As income levels rise, even utility-driven purchases now incorporate aspirational value. For many, this bike marks a step forward in lifestyle, not just mobility. Surveys reveal that buyers see the Splendor 135 as a symbol of progress—offering a bit more flair and status while still prioritizing practical traits like fuel savings. This mix of pride and pragmatism mirrors India’s broader consumer evolution.
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Future Possibilities
Looking ahead, Hero MotoCorp may explore several directions for the Splendor 135 platform, including:
- Upgraded engines for future emission norms
- More advanced smartphone connectivity
- Hybrid or electric versions
- Region-specific special editions
With world-class R&D infrastructure, Hero is well-positioned to evolve the platform without sacrificing its affordability and core strengths.
Conclusion: The Smart Evolution of a Classic
The Hero Splendor 135 is more than just a new variant—it represents a strategic leap forward for a beloved legacy. By integrating performance, technology, and styling into an already dependable platform, Hero has created a product that connects with both legacy and next-gen buyers. It proves that evolution, when done thoughtfully, can deliver outstanding results—commercially and emotionally. As India’s mobility landscape continues to change, the Splendor 135 serves as a beacon for how trusted brands can stay relevant through smart innovation.