Hero Splendor Plus XTEC

The heart of the Splendor Plus XTEC remains the venerable 97.2 cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine. In its current BS6 Phase 2 compliant form, it produces 7.91 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. This power is channelled through a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox. While these figures are modest, they are optimised for the motorcycle's intended environment: dense urban traffic. The engine's key characteristic is its flat torque curve, delivering usable grunt from very low RPMs. This allows for effortless starts from a standstill and minimises the need for frequent gear changes in stop-go conditions. Throttle response is linear and predictable, devoid of any unwelcome abruptness. In the city, the Splendor feels tractable and easy to manage. 

On the highway, its limitations become apparent; the engine can sustain speeds of 60-70 km/h, but feels strained beyond this, with vibrations becoming more pronounced. The primary focus is fuel efficiency, where Hero’s i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology plays a significant role. While ARAI figures are higher, real-world mileage consistently hovers between 65 and 75 kmpl, making it one of the most economical motorcycles to run in India.

Comfort has always been a cornerstone of the Splendor's appeal, and the XTEC model continues this tradition. The motorcycle features a long, single-piece seat that is both wide and well-cushioned, offering ample support for the rider and pillion over extended periods. The riding posture is upright and neutral, with a comfortable reach to the handlebars and conveniently placed footpegs, ensuring minimal strain on the rider’s back and wrists during long commutes. At 785 mm, the seat height is accessible to a vast majority of Indian riders, allowing them to place their feet firmly on the ground at stops. 

For the pillion, a sturdy grab rail provides security and also serves as a useful point for tying down small luggage. The small-displacement, air-cooled engine manages heat exceptionally well, with no noticeable heat directed towards the rider's legs, even in heavy traffic. While it lacks built-in storage solutions like a scooter, the Splendor's robust and simple construction makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket luggage racks and panniers, enhancing its utility for carrying goods or for longer journeys.

The Splendor Plus XTEC is built on a tubular double cradle frame, a simple yet durable foundation. Suspension duties are managed by telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers at the front and a 5-step adjustable hydraulic twin-shock setup at the rear. This hardware is tuned for compliance over outright performance, effectively absorbing the poor road surfaces commonly found in Indian cities. The ride quality is pliant, prioritising rider comfort for daily commutes. Its low kerb weight of 112 kg and compact wheelbase make it exceptionally agile. Navigating through congested lanes and filtering through traffic is effortless, a core requirement for any commuter motorcycle. 

However, its lightweight nature and soft suspension setup mean high-speed stability is merely adequate, not confidence-inspiring. In terms of braking, the motorcycle relies on 130mm drum brakes on both wheels, governed by an Integrated Braking System (IBS). This system automatically applies a portion of the front brake when the rear brake is engaged, reducing the chances of a skid. While functional for its 8 bhp performance envelope, the lack of a disc brake option, even as a variant, is a notable omission. Competitors in the slightly higher 110cc category are beginning to offer single-channel ABS, which provides a demonstrably higher level of safety.

Visually, the Splendor Plus XTEC retains the iconic and instantly recognisable silhouette that has defined it for decades. The design is conservative and functional, appealing to a demographic that values familiarity over novelty. The "XTEC" designation, however, brings a significant technological overhaul. The standout upgrade is the fully digital instrument cluster, a marked improvement over the traditional analog dials. This unit displays a speedometer, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, and, crucially, a real-time mileage indicator. It also incorporates Bluetooth connectivity, enabling call and SMS alerts to be displayed on the screen. Further enhancing its practicality is an integrated USB charging port located near the console. 

The lighting system features a halogen headlamp, which provides average illumination, but is supplemented by a bright LED Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) that improves the motorcycle's visibility to other road users. Additional features include Hero’s i3S technology and a side-stand engine cut-off switch. These additions, particularly the digital console and connectivity, modernise the user experience significantly, addressing a key area where the standard Splendor was beginning to feel dated. These are not gimmicks but practical tools for the daily commuter.

The safety suite on the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC is compliant with current government regulations for its segment but does not push the boundaries. The primary safety feature is the Integrated Braking System (IBS), which links the front and rear drum brakes. This is a crucial addition for preventing wheel lock-up under panic braking, especially for less experienced riders or on loose surfaces. However, it must be stated that IBS is a compensatory mechanism and is not as effective as a single-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in preventing front-wheel lock, which is the cause of most two-wheeler accidents. The XTEC variant adds two important electronic safety nets: a side-stand engine cut-off sensor, which prevents the rider from moving with the stand deployed, and a bank-angle sensor that shuts off the engine if the motorcycle tips over. 

In terms of visibility, the inclusion of a bright LED DRL makes the motorcycle more conspicuous to other road users during the day. However, the main headlamp remains a conventional halogen unit, offering adequate but not exceptional illumination for night riding. The braking confidence provided by the dual drum setup is sufficient for city speeds but requires a calculated approach in wet conditions.

Honda Shine 100:

The Honda Shine 100 is a direct assault on the Splendor’s dominance, built on Honda’s formidable reputation for engine refinement and reliability. It offers a slightly smoother power delivery and a no-frills, functional package that appeals to the purist commuter.
Differentiator: Superior engine refinement and the trust associated with the Honda brand name.

TVS Radeon:

The TVS Radeon positions itself as a more rugged and feature-rich alternative. It boasts a comfortable ride, a stronger low-end torque feel, and premium touches like a unique beige instrument panel and cushioned seat, giving it a more substantial presence.

Differentiator: A more robust build quality and superior ride comfort, particularly over broken roads.

Bajaj Platina 100:

Bajaj has consistently marketed the Platina platform on the promise of unparalleled comfort, thanks to its 'ComforTec' suspension with longer travel in both the front and rear. This makes it exceptionally adept at handling poor road conditions.
Differentiator: Unmatched suspension comfort, making it the ideal choice for riders on very rough roads.

Who should buy it?

The ideal buyer is a traditional Splendor loyalist or a new rider who prioritises fuel economy and reliability but desires modern conveniences like a digital console, Bluetooth alerts, and a USB charger without moving to a different brand or platform.

Who should skip it?

Riders who prioritise safety and braking performance should look elsewhere, as competitors offer a disc brake and even ABS in a similar price bracket. Those seeking more contemporary styling or highway performance will also find better options in the 110-125cc segments.