Hero Splendor 125: After decades of ruling Indian roads with smaller engines, Hero MotoCorp finally answered what millions of riders have been asking for – more power without sacrificing the Splendor’s legendary efficiency. The 2025 Hero Splendor 125 isn’t just another capacity upgrade; it’s Hero’s attempt to future-proof India’s most trusted motorcycle nameplate.
Why This Launch Matters More Than You Think
Let’s be honest – the Splendor has been showing its age. While competitors like Honda and TVS were launching feature-packed 125cc motorcycles, Hero seemed content with their tried-and-tested formula. That changes now, and the timing couldn’t be better.
The new Splendor 125 addresses a real market gap. Priced between ₹82,000-₹89,000 ex-showroom, it sits perfectly between basic commuters and premium offerings. More importantly, it gives existing Splendor owners a clear upgrade path without forcing them to abandon the brand they’ve trusted for years.
What’s particularly smart about Hero’s approach is how they’ve positioned multiple variants. Three variants – Standard, Executive, and Premium – starting from ₹89,999 for the Standard, ₹93,999 for Executive, and ₹97,999 for Premium gives customers flexibility to choose exactly what they need rather than paying for features they’ll never use.
Engine Technology That Actually Delivers
The heart of this motorcycle deserves serious attention. The 124.7cc air-cooled, 4-stroke engine equipped with i3S (Idle Start-Stop System) technology delivers 10.7 BHP power and 10.6 Nm torque. Those numbers might sound modest compared to sportier 125cc bikes, but they’re perfectly calibrated for Indian riding conditions.
Here’s what really impresses: Hero claims an incredible 90 kmpl mileage, though real-world figures will likely settle around 75-80 kmpl. Even if it delivers 75 kmpl consistently, that’s outstanding for a 125cc motorcycle. The i3S technology automatically shuts off the engine at traffic signals, contributing significantly to fuel savings in stop-and-go traffic.
The engine’s torque delivery has been optimized for urban riding. Instead of chasing peak power numbers, Hero engineers focused on strong low-end and mid-range performance, reducing the need for frequent gear changes during city commutes.
Design Evolution That Respects Heritage
Visually, the Splendor 125 strikes the right balance between familiar and fresh. It retains unmistakable Splendor DNA – round headlamp, upright stance, and practical fuel tank – while showcasing contemporary touches like LED lighting suite with H-shaped LED headlamp, LED taillight, and flush-mounted indicators.
The styling updates feel purposeful rather than gimmicky. Sharper tank contours and sporty dual-tone graphics give it a more youthful appeal without alienating traditional buyers who prefer understated design. The blacked-out alloy wheels add a premium touch that was missing from previous generations.
Color options include Red and Blue variants, offering enough choice without overwhelming customers. Sometimes simplicity works better than dozen different paint schemes.
Features That Match Modern Expectations
The 2025 model addresses several pain points of older Splendor motorcycles. Modern upgrades include LED headlamp for better visibility, digital-analog instrument cluster, mobile charging port for convenience, and comfortable seat for long rides. These aren’t revolutionary features, but they’re exactly what daily commuters need.
The inclusion of tubeless tires deserves mention – it’s a practical upgrade that reduces the hassle of puncture repairs, especially important for users in smaller towns where tire repair shops might not be readily available.
Competitive Positioning and Market Reality
The Splendor 125 enters a crowded segment, but it has distinct advantages. Compared to Honda SP 125 (₹89,468) with 10.87 bhp and 65 kmpl, or TVS Raider 125 (₹80,848) with 11.2 bhp and 55 kmpl, the Splendor 125’s mileage and price make it a budget king, though competitors offer more power.
This positioning makes sense for Hero’s target audience. Most Splendor buyers prioritize reliability, fuel efficiency, and low running costs over raw performance. The extensive service network – over 6,000 dealerships nationwide – remains a massive advantage that competitors struggle to match.
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The Business Case for Success
Hero sold 16,800 Splendor units in March 2025 (based on past trends), showing continued popularity, and the 125cc variant could tap into the upgrade market effectively. EMIs starting at ₹2,800/month with ₹10,000 down payment make it accessible for college students and young professionals.
The waiting period of 15-30 days in smaller towns suggests healthy demand, while metro cities should see faster delivery. Festive season offers could sweeten the deal further.
Hero Splendor 125 Final Verdict: Evolution Done Right
The Hero Splendor 125 represents thoughtful evolution rather than radical transformation. It addresses genuine customer needs – more power, better features, improved efficiency – without abandoning the simplicity and reliability that made the Splendor legendary.
Whether this strategy succeeds depends on execution and long-term reliability, but early signs suggest Hero has crafted a compelling package for India’s practical-minded riders.