Hero Super Splendor : In the ever-evolving landscape of India’s two-wheeler market, the Hero Super Splendor has carved out a niche for itself as a reliable and practical commuter bike.
As the larger sibling of the iconic Splendor, the Super Splendor aims to offer a blend of classic styling, modern features, and impressive performance – all at a competitive price point.
The Hero Super Splendor’s design is a testament to the brand’s ability to evolve a classic while retaining its core identity.
Gone is the boxy, utilitarian look of the original Splendor, replaced by a more fluid and contemporary aesthetic that still pays homage to its roots.
The front of the bike features a sleek headlamp cowl with a distinctive flyscreen, giving it a slightly sportier appearance.
The side panels have been redesigned with silver highlights that neatly cover the carburetor, adding a touch of visual interest.
At the rear, the grab rail has been seamlessly integrated into the bodywork, creating a cleaner, more cohesive look.
While the Super Splendor may not turn heads in the same way as some of its more stylized competitors, its design is undoubtedly a step up from the original Splendor.
The bike is available in a range of vibrant color options, including Black Silver STR, Black Sports Red, Candy Blazing Red, Metallic Nexus Blue, and Black and Accent, allowing riders to choose a shade that best suits their personal style.
Hero Super Splendor Engine and Performance: Balancing Power and Efficiency
Powering the Hero Super Splendor is a 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that delivers a respectable 10.7 PS of maximum power at 7,500 rpm and 10.6 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm.
While these figures may not be earth-shattering, the engine’s linear power delivery and refinement make it well-suited for the bike’s intended purpose as a practical commuter.
One of the standout features of the Super Splendor’s powertrain is the inclusion of Hero’s i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology.
This feature automatically turns off the engine when the bike is idling, helping to improve fuel efficiency in stop-and-go city traffic.
The system can be easily deactivated if the rider prefers a more responsive throttle response.
The engine is mated to a smooth-shifting 5-speed gearbox, which, combined with the bike’s relatively light 122 kg kerb weight, ensures a nimble and agile riding experience, particularly in urban environments.
While the Super Splendor may not be the quickest bike off the line, it more than makes up for it with its ability to maintain a steady pace and deliver impressive fuel efficiency.
Hero Super Splendor Ride Quality and Handling: Comfort and Confidence
The Hero Super Splendor’s suspension setup consists of a telescopic fork at the front and a 5-step adjustable mono-shock at the rear.
This combination provides a comfortable and stable ride, absorbing bumps and undulations with relative ease, making it well-suited for both city commutes and occasional long-distance rides.
Braking duties are handled by a 130mm drum brake at the front and a 130mm drum brake at the rear, both of which are equipped with a combined braking system (CBS) for improved stability and control during emergency stops.
While disc brakes are not offered as standard, the drum setup provides adequate stopping power for the bike’s intended use.
In terms of handling, the Super Splendor’s lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension give it a nimble and responsive character, allowing riders to navigate through congested city traffic with confidence.
The bike’s wide, comfortable seat and relaxed riding position also contribute to its user-friendly nature, making it a suitable choice for both experienced and novice riders alike.
Hero Super Splendor Features and Technology: Balancing Tradition and Innovation
While the Hero Super Splendor may not be the most feature-rich bike in its segment, it does offer a decent array of modern amenities to cater to the needs of today’s commuters.
The bike’s instrument cluster is a semi-digital affair, combining an analog speedometer with an LCD display that provides information such as fuel level, trip meter, and real-time mileage.
This setup strikes a balance between traditional and contemporary design, appealing to riders who appreciate a touch of modernity without straying too far from the familiar.
One of the Super Splendor’s standout features is the inclusion of a USB charging port, allowing riders to keep their smartphones and other devices powered up during their commutes.
This practical addition is a welcome inclusion in a segment where such conveniences are not always a given.
In terms of safety, the bike comes equipped with a side-stand engine cut-off system, which prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is deployed.
While not a revolutionary feature, it’s a thoughtful addition that can help prevent accidental starts and potential mishaps.
Hero Super Splendor Competitors and Positioning
The Hero Super Splendor competes directly with a host of other 125cc commuter bikes in the Indian market, including the Honda Shine, Honda SP 125, and Hero Glamour.
Each of these models offers its own unique blend of design, performance, and features, catering to the diverse preferences of two-wheeler buyers.
Where the Super Splendor stands out is in its combination of a tried-and-tested brand heritage, reliable performance, and a relatively affordable price tag.
While it may not boast the most cutting-edge technology or the most striking aesthetics, it delivers a well-rounded package that is likely to appeal to riders seeking a no-frills, dependable commuter bike.
Priced between ₹80,848 and ₹84,748 (ex-showroom), the Super Splendor is positioned as a value-for-money offering in the 125cc segment, undercutting some of its more feature-laden competitors.
This pricing strategy, coupled with Hero’s extensive sales and service network, makes the Super Splendor an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize practicality and reliability over the latest bells and whistles.
Hero Super Splendor Conclusion: A Commuter Bike That Ticks the Right Boxes
The Hero Super Splendor is a testament to the brand’s ability to evolve a classic design while maintaining the core attributes that have made the Splendor nameplate a household name in India.
With its refined styling, reliable performance, and practical features, the Super Splendor caters to the needs of a wide range of riders, from seasoned commuters to those upgrading from smaller-displacement bikes.
While it may not be the most cutting-edge or feature-rich offering in its segment, the Super Splendor’s strength lies in its ability to deliver a well-rounded package that prioritizes dependability, comfort, and value for money.
In a market where consumers are increasingly seeking a balance between tradition and modernity, the Hero Super Splendor emerges as a compelling choice that strikes that delicate equilibrium.
As the two-wheeler landscape in India continues to evolve, the Super Splendor’s enduring appeal and the brand’s reputation for reliability ensure that it will remain a contender in the highly competitive 125cc commuter segment for years to come.
For riders seeking a no-nonsense, practical, and affordable daily companion, the Hero Super Splendor is a bike that ticks all the right boxes.