When it comes to motorcycles in India, Hero MotoCorp is a name that resonates with trust, performance, and dependability. Among its vast lineup, the Hero Splendor series has been a game-changer for decades. Known as the country’s most popular commuter motorcycle, the Splendor has always stood for fuel efficiency, comfort, and affordability. With the launch of the Hero Splendor 125, the brand has taken things a step further, offering a powerful yet practical bike that blends performance with modern design.
In this detailed article, we’ll dive into every aspect of the Hero Splendor 125 — from its design and features to performance, mileage, maintenance, and overall ownership experience. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a student, or a professional looking for a reliable companion, this comprehensive guide will help you understand why the Hero Splendor 125 is a top choice.
A Brief Legacy of the Splendor Series
The Hero Splendor made its debut in the early 1990s and quickly became a household name. Over the years, it earned a reputation as the “people’s bike” thanks to its unbeatable mileage, easy handling, and low maintenance costs. The 125cc version builds on this legendary legacy by introducing more power, upgraded design elements, and a modern appeal without losing the core identity of a commuter-friendly motorcycle.
Design and Styling
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Hero Splendor 125 is its fresh, stylish design. Unlike the traditional Splendor models that leaned heavily on simplicity, the 125 brings in sportier elements like:
- Sleek body panels
- Contemporary graphics
- Muscular fuel tank design
- Attractive alloy wheels
- Chrome-finished exhaust
This combination makes the bike appealing not only to mature riders who value reliability but also to younger buyers who prefer something with a touch of flair.
The seat is ergonomically designed, long, and well-cushioned, ensuring comfort for both rider and pillion. It strikes a balance between sporty aesthetics and practical commuter styling.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Hero Splendor 125 lies its robust 124.7cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This motor is tuned to deliver an optimal mix of power and fuel efficiency, producing around 11 horsepower and 10.6 Nm torque.
Key performance highlights:
- Smooth city riding: The engine is refined for stop-and-go traffic.
- Top speed: Reaches around 90-95 km/h, sufficient for highway runs.
- 5-speed gearbox: Ensures smooth gear shifts and better highway performance.
While it’s not a sports bike, the Hero Splendor 125 offers enough punch to handle city roads and occasional long rides without breaking a sweat.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Mileage has always been the backbone of the Splendor family. The Hero Splendor 125 maintains this tradition by offering 55–60 km/l under normal riding conditions. With its 11-liter fuel tank, you can expect a riding range of more than 600 kilometers on a full tank — a big advantage for daily commuters.
Ride Comfort and Handling
Commuter motorcycles need to be comfortable, and the Hero Splendor 125 doesn’t disappoint.
- Suspension: Telescopic hydraulic forks at the front and adjustable twin shocks at the rear absorb bumps effectively.
- Seating position: Upright, relaxed, and perfect for long city rides.
- Weight: At around 122 kg, it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver in traffic.
The handling feels stable even at higher speeds, and its well-balanced frame makes cornering smooth and predictable.
Technology and Features
Though the Splendor series has always been minimalistic, Hero has given the 125 a few modern touches. Depending on the variant, features may include:
- Semi-digital instrument cluster (with speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, and trip meter)
- i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology for improved fuel efficiency
- Alloy wheels and tubeless tyres
- Integrated braking system (IBS) for enhanced safety
- Stylish LED position lamp
These features make it competitive in today’s commuter motorcycle market, where buyers expect practicality with a hint of modernity.
Braking and Safety
The Hero Splendor 125 offers a front disc brake option (in higher variants) along with a rear drum brake. The Integrated Braking System ensures shorter stopping distances and adds confidence for new riders. Combined with grippy tyres, the braking performance is adequate for city conditions.
Maintenance and Reliability
One of the strongest reasons to consider the Splendor series is low maintenance costs. The 125cc model stays true to this heritage:
- Service intervals are longer.
- Spare parts are widely available and affordable.
- Hero’s after-sales service network is the largest in India.
With basic care and regular servicing, the bike easily lasts for years without major issues. Many owners report clocking more than 1,00,000 kilometers on Splendor bikes.
Price and Variants
The Hero Splendor 125 is available in multiple variants, depending on features like disc/drum brakes and color options. Pricing is competitive, usually starting from around ₹75,000–85,000 (ex-showroom), making it an excellent value-for-money option.
Pros and Cons of Hero Splendor 125
Pros:
- Excellent mileage for a 125cc bike
- Trusted brand and wide service network
- Comfortable seating and easy handling
- Stylish design compared to older Splendor models
- Affordable maintenance costs
Cons:
- Limited high-speed performance compared to sportier 125cc bikes
- Feature list could be more advanced
- Design still prioritizes practicality over aggressive styling
Who Should Buy the Hero Splendor 125?
This bike is perfect for:
- Daily commuters who ride 30–60 km per day
- Students looking for a stylish yet fuel-efficient option
- Office-goers who want low running costs and high reliability
- First-time riders who need a lightweight and easy-to-handle motorcycle
If you’re looking for speed thrills or advanced technology, you might prefer sportier 125cc bikes. But if your priority is practicality, mileage, and comfort, the Hero Splendor 125 is a clear winner.
Competitors in the Market
The 125cc commuter segment is competitive, with rivals like:
- Honda Shine 125
- Bajaj Pulsar 125
- TVS Raider 125
- Yamaha Saluto 125 (discontinued in some markets)
Among these, the Splendor 125 holds its ground due to its unbeatable mileage, lower ownership cost, and Hero’s brand trust.
Conclusion
The Hero Splendor 125 is more than just a motorcycle — it’s a reliable partner for everyday life. It combines Hero’s legendary fuel efficiency with upgraded styling and decent performance, making it an ideal choice for India’s vast commuter population.
Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller bike or buying your very first motorcycle, the Hero Splendor 125 delivers the right mix of style, comfort, and dependability. For riders who want a trusted daily commuter without compromising on mileage, this bike continues to shine as a top contender.