Hero Splendor XTEC : In the bustling streets of India, where two-wheelers reign supreme, a familiar name has once again captured the attention of commuters and enthusiasts alike.
The Hero Splendor, a motorcycle that has been the backbone of Indian mobility for decades, has received a significant upgrade with the launch of the new XTEC variant.
This latest iteration promises to blend the tried-and-true reliability of the Splendor with cutting-edge features that cater to the modern rider’s needs.
Hero Splendor XTEC A Fresh Face for a Familiar Friend
The 2024 Hero Splendor XTEC doesn’t just bring new features to the table; it arrives with a refreshed aesthetic that turns heads without alienating its loyal fan base.
The designers at Hero MotoCorp have walked a fine line between innovation and tradition, resulting in a motorcycle that’s unmistakably a Splendor, yet distinctly modern.
At first glance, the most noticeable change is the new LED headlamp. This isn’t just any LED setup; it’s an H-shaped design that gives the Splendor XTEC a unique identity on the road.
The daytime running light (DRL) integrated into this assembly ensures that the bike remains visible in all conditions, a crucial safety feature for the diverse Indian road conditions.
The body panels have been subtly reshaped, giving the XTEC a more muscular stance without compromising the slim profile that makes it so adept at weaving through traffic.
New graphics and color schemes add a touch of flair, with options that range from classic to contemporary, ensuring there’s a Splendor XTEC to match every rider’s style.
Hero Splendor XTEC Heart of the Matter: Engine and Performance
Under the new skin, the Splendor XTEC retains the heart that has made it the world’s best-selling motorcycle.
The 97.2cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine continues to power this commuter, but it’s not without its upgrades.
Hero has fine-tuned the powerplant to meet the latest emission norms without sacrificing the Splendor’s legendary fuel efficiency.
The engine now boasts Hero’s xSens technology, a sophisticated fuel injection system that optimizes performance and efficiency.
It delivers a modest but adequate 5.9 kW (7.9 bhp) at 8000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm.
These figures might not set the world on fire, but they’re perfectly suited for the Splendor’s primary mission: reliable, efficient urban transportation.
Perhaps the most significant addition to the Splendor XTEC’s powertrain is the i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology.
This system automatically shuts off the engine when idling for extended periods, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it with a simple twist of the throttle.
It’s a feature borrowed from the automotive world that promises to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in stop-and-go traffic.
Hero Splendor XTEC Tech-Savvy Commuter: Features That Impress
The ‘XTEC’ in the name stands for ‘Extra Technology,’ and the new Splendor lives up to this moniker with a host of features that were once the domain of much more expensive motorcycles.
Hero Splendor XTEC Digital Dashboard
Gone is the simple analog speedometer of old. In its place sits a fully digital LCD instrument cluster that’s a first for the segment.
This crisp, orange-backlit display provides all the essential information at a glance: speed, fuel level, odometer, and even real-time mileage. It’s a quantum leap in terms of information delivery for a commuter motorcycle.
Hero Splendor XTEC Bluetooth Connectivity
In a move that acknowledges the connected nature of today’s riders, the Splendor XTEC offers Bluetooth connectivity.
This allows riders to pair their smartphones with the bike, enabling features like call and SMS alerts directly on the instrument cluster.
It’s a thoughtful addition that helps riders stay connected without the need to constantly check their phones.
Hero Splendor XTEC Enhanced Safety Features
Safety hasn’t been overlooked in the pursuit of technology. The Splendor XTEC comes equipped with a side-stand engine cut-off feature, ensuring that the bike won’t move if the stand is down.
This simple yet effective system can prevent accidents caused by forgetfulness.
For those who prefer additional stopping power, Hero offers an optional 240mm front disc brake.
This, combined with the standard 130mm drum brake at the rear and the Integrated Braking System (IBS), provides confident stopping power in various conditions.
Hero Splendor XTEC Ride and Handling: The Splendor DNA
While the Splendor XTEC brings many new features to the table, it doesn’t stray from the core attributes that have made the Splendor name synonymous with reliable transportation.
The tubular double cradle frame provides a stable platform, while the telescopic front forks and 5-step adjustable rear shock absorbers soak up the bumps and potholes that are all too common on Indian roads.
The 18-inch wheels, shod with tubeless tires, offer a good balance between stability and maneuverability.
With a ground clearance of 165mm, the Splendor XTEC can tackle most urban obstacles with ease, while its compact dimensions (2000mm length, 720mm width, 1052mm height) ensure it remains easy to park and store.
Hero Splendor XTEC Efficiency: The Splendor’s Calling Card
Fuel efficiency has always been the Splendor’s trump card, and the XTEC variant takes this to new heights.
While official figures are yet to be released, early reports suggest that the new model can achieve over 80 kmpl under ideal conditions.
This exceptional fuel economy, combined with the 9.8-liter fuel tank, means that riders can go long distances between fill-ups, a boon for both urban commuters and rural users alike.
Hero Splendor XTEC The Competition: Staying Ahead of the Curve
The launch of the Splendor XTEC comes at a time when the commuter segment is seeing renewed competition.
Rivals like the TVS Radeon, Bajaj CT110X, and the newly launched Honda Shine 100 are all vying for a slice of this lucrative market.
However, the Splendor XTEC’s combination of trusted reliability, modern features, and competitive pricing positions it strongly against these challengers.
Hero Splendor XTEC Ownership Experience: More Than Just a Motorcycle
Buying a Splendor has always been about more than just the motorcycle itself. Hero MotoCorp’s vast dealer and service network means that owners are never far from support.
The company has also introduced digital service initiatives, allowing owners to book services and track maintenance through smartphone apps.
The Splendor XTEC continues the model’s tradition of low maintenance costs and easy availability of spare parts.
This, combined with Hero’s reputation for durability, means that the total cost of ownership remains attractive, a crucial factor for budget-conscious buyers.
Hero Splendor XTEC Environmental Considerations
In an era of increasing environmental awareness, the Splendor XTEC makes strides in reducing its ecological footprint.
The i3S system, combined with the refined fuel injection, helps reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
While not a zero-emission vehicle, it represents a step towards more sustainable personal transportation in markets where electric vehicles are still in their infancy.
Hero Splendor XTEC Looking to the Future
The launch of the Splendor XTEC is more than just a model update; it’s a statement of intent from Hero MotoCorp.
It shows that the company is committed to evolving its most iconic product to meet the changing needs of consumers while staying true to the core values that made it a success in the first place.
As urban environments change and technology advances, it’s likely that we’ll see further iterations of the Splendor.
There are already whispers of hybrid and electric versions in development, suggesting that the Splendor name will continue to be at the forefront of personal mobility in India and beyond for years to come.
Hero Splendor XTEC Conclusion: The Legend Evolves
The Hero Splendor XTEC represents a significant evolution of one of the most successful motorcycle models in history.
It manages to introduce modern technology and features without sacrificing the simplicity and reliability that have been the hallmarks of the Splendor name.
For commuters looking for an efficient, reliable, and now tech-savvy means of transportation, the Splendor XTEC makes a compelling case.
It bridges the gap between the bare-bones commuters of yesterday and the connected vehicles of tomorrow, all while maintaining the accessible price point that has made the Splendor a household name.
As the Indian two-wheeler market continues to evolve, the Splendor XTEC stands as a testament to Hero MotoCorp’s ability to adapt and innovate.
It’s not just a new model; it’s a new chapter in the ongoing story of India’s favorite motorcycle.
Whether you’re a long-time Splendor fan or a newcomer to the world of two-wheelers, the XTEC variant offers something to appreciate.
It’s the familiar Splendor, reimagined for a new era, ready to carry millions more on their daily journeys.