Hero Splendor: The Hero Splendor and its latest 97.2 cc variant continue to dominate the Indian commuter motorcycle space. With an engine tuned for efficiency, an incredibly wide service network, and strong brand heritage, it remains one of the most practical choices for everyday riding. However, in 2025 the model is also facing higher expectations — not just fuel economy and reliability, but features, comfort and compliance with stricter regulations. Let’s explore what the 97.2 cc Splendor offers, what’s changed, and whether it still justifies its popularity.
What Makes the 97.2 cc Splendor Tick
Hero Splendor: At the heart of this bike is a 97.2 cc, air-cooled single-cylinder engine with an OHC configuration. According to official spec sheets, this unit produces about 8.02 PS of maximum power at 8,000 rpm, and about 8.05 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm.
Moreover, the kerb weight is around 112 kg, and the fuel tank holds 9.8 litres — consistent with the commuter-bike class standards.
What this means for a rider: You’re getting a machine that is light enough to easily manoeuvre through city traffic, and an engine that doesn’t reach for big numbers but delivers dependable everyday usability.
Efficiency & Real-World Mileage
One of the biggest reasons for the Splendor’s enduring appeal is its excellent fuel efficiency. In official claims and owner reports, the mileage hovers around 60-70 kmpl for mixed usage, though it can go higher under ideal conditions.
For example, some sources list a claimed mileage up to 70 kmpl.
In practical terms, that means fewer fuel stops, lower running cost, and overall less stress for someone commuting daily. For many buyers, that more than compensates for modest power.
What’s New in the 2025 Update
Although the core engine and mechanical layout remain familiar, the 2025 iteration of the Hero Splendor has some meaningful updates. Firstly, the model has been made compliant with the newer OBD2B/OBD-II regulations, which is a requirement for engine emissions and monitoring systems.
Additionally, some variants now come with upgrades like tubeless tyres, better visual finishes, and more colour options.
These updates don’t change the essence of the Splendor — but they ensure it remains relevant in a market that’s rapidly shifting towards more tech, higher standards and even tighter competition.
Features, Comfort & Practicality
When you ride or own a commuter bike like the Splendor 97.2 cc, what matters as much as mileage is how it fits into your daily routine: how it rides in traffic, how pillion passengers feel, how maintenance is.
The Hero Splendor scores strongly here: it has a reputation for rock-solid reliability, minimal maintenance, and a massive service network. That means fewer worries about breakdowns or inaccessible parts.
On the comfort front: the riding posture is upright and relaxed (which is good for daily use), the seat height is manageable, and the weight is light — making it easy for new riders or those navigating crowded roads. One caveat: it’s a basic bike — you won’t get high-end suspension components or refined handling like sportier machines. But for its purpose, it does the job.
In terms of features, while it remains minimal compared to premium bikes, variants like the “XTEC” trim bring in newer technologies such as real-time mileage indicator, i3S stop-start system, and FI (Fuel Injection) systems in some markets.
For a commuter machine, these are welcome enhancements.
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Pricing & Value for Money
A key part of the Hero Splendor story is value. In 2025 the ex-showroom pricing of the Splendor Plus (97.2 cc) in India starts from around ₹78,900 (ex-showroom) for the base variant, and goes up for more feature-rich trims.
When you factor in its low running cost, broad service availability and proven reliability, it still makes very strong economic sense for regular commuting. You’re paying not for flashy performance, but for trusted practical transport.
Of course, if you require more power, bigger engine size and advanced features, you might look beyond the Hero Splendor. But for an everyday bike that will reliably get you from A to B with minimal fuss, it remains hard to fault.
Who Should Buy & Who Might Look Elsewhere
If you’re a rider whose priority is daily commuting, particularly in urban or suburban settings, and you value the following: low running cost, ease of use, broad service support, modest price — then the Splendor 97.2 cc is a very strong contender.
On the other hand, if your priorities include: sporty performance, large highway excursions, high speed, aggressive handling or premium features (LED lights, digital dash, bigger displacement) — then you might want to explore other bikes. The Hero Splendor prioritises functionality and economy over thrills.
In short: choose the Splendor if your ride is more about everyday reliability than weekend adrenaline.
Final Thoughts
In an era where many motorcycle models chase higher displacement, luxury features and aggressive styling, the Splendor 97.2 cc holds on by sticking to its strengths. It is economical, reliable, well-proven, and remains updated enough to meet current regulatory and market expectations in 2025.
If you want a commuter Hero Splendor bike you can trust — one that doesn’t demand much, gives a lot, and makes sense in real-world conditions — then yes, the Splendor still earns its fame. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something newer, more feature-rich or performance-oriented, then you might expand your search. But for what it is, this model remains a benchmark in its class.