The Hero Splendor series, a name synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and affordability, has been a cornerstone of Hero MotoCorp’s success in the motorcycle market. Among the various models in the Splendor range, the Hero Splendor 135 holds a unique place due to its blend of classic commuter motorcycle qualities and subtle sportiness. The Hero Splendor series has been known for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and the company’s commitment to providing value for money.
While the Hero Splendor 135 is not as widely recognized as its more famous counterparts like the Splendor Plus or Splendor iSmart, it offered a slightly more performance-oriented alternative to the average commuter bike, aimed at riders who wanted a little more power without stepping up to a more expensive or complex model.
In this comprehensive review, we will dive into the Hero Splendor 135’s design, performance, features, and legacy, as well as how it stacks up in today’s motorcycle market.
Introduction to the Hero Splendor 135
The Hero Splendor 135 was introduced as a mid-range motorcycle in the Splendor series, designed to offer a more refined and performance-oriented experience without straying too far from the affordability and reliability that the brand was known for. The Hero Splendor 135 was introduced in select markets in the mid-2000s and quickly gained traction among daily commuters and those looking for a motorcycle that could deliver better power output while still offering the practicality of a 125cc or 100cc commuter bike.
Hero MotoCorp has been known for producing motorcycles that prioritize fuel economy, ease of use, and low maintenance, and the Splendor 135 followed suit in those aspects. However, it stood apart with its slightly more sporty styling and better power delivery, making it a more exciting option for a segment of buyers who wanted a bit of flair without moving into the more premium segments of the market.
Design and Styling: Sleek Yet Sporty
One of the defining features of the Hero Splendor 135 was its design. While the design language stayed true to the simple and practical approach of the Splendor series, the 135cc variant included design elements that gave it a slightly sportier appearance compared to its more utilitarian counterparts.
The Hero Splendor 135 featured a slim, compact body design that kept the overall weight of the bike low, making it easy to maneuver in busy traffic. The fuel tank was designed with sleek lines, and the bike came with vibrant color options that appealed to younger riders. The split-seat arrangement, a departure from the regular flat seats on many commuter bikes, gave it a more dynamic and modern look, contributing to its sporty appeal.
At the front, the motorcycle sported a sharp headlamp design, giving it a distinct, aggressive look compared to its more traditional sibling, the Splendor Plus. The instrument console included a standard analog setup, offering essential information such as speed, fuel level, and trip meter.
The overall build quality was typical of Hero motorcycles—solid and durable. The Splendor 135 was built to handle everyday wear and tear, offering long-lasting performance in urban and rural conditions alike.
Engine and Performance: More Power for the Daily Commute
At the heart of the Hero Splendor 135 was a 134.4cc, air-cooled, four-stroke engine. This engine was designed to deliver more power than the smaller 100cc or 125cc models in the Splendor range but without crossing over into the higher-displacement, higher-cost categories.
With a power output of approximately 8.5 bhp and a torque rating of 10.35 Nm, the Splendor 135 offered a marked improvement in performance compared to its smaller siblings. This additional power was especially noticeable when riding on highways or overtaking in traffic, where the extra grunt provided a more comfortable and confident ride.
The motorcycle’s engine was mated to a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox, which was known for its smooth and reliable gear shifts. This was particularly useful for city commuters, as the gear changes were simple and easy to perform, even in stop-and-go traffic. The four-speed transmission also helped to strike a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, with the bike maintaining decent fuel economy despite the enhanced power.
When it came to handling the daily commute, the Splendor 135 performed admirably. The engine’s power delivery was smooth, and the motorcycle felt composed even at higher revs, a trait that gave it a certain level of excitement compared to more basic commuter bikes. While the Splendor 135 may not have been built for high-speed performance or aggressive riding, it offered a balanced mix of power for typical daily use.
Ride and Handling: Built for Comfort and Practicality
The Hero Splendor 135 was designed with comfort and practicality in mind, making it an ideal option for commuters. The suspension system, with telescopic forks in the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, provided a decent ride quality over both smooth and rough surfaces. Whether navigating city potholes or taking longer rides on highways, the suspension absorbed most bumps and jolts, allowing the rider to remain comfortable throughout the journey.
The lightweight construction of the bike was another asset when it came to handling. With a kerb weight of approximately 120 kg, the Hero Splendor 135 was easy to control, particularly for newer riders or those who preferred a motorcycle that was not too heavy. The slim profile of the bike also made it easy to maneuver in crowded traffic, further enhancing its suitability for city commutes.
The braking system included drum brakes at both the front and rear, which was quite common for motorcycles in this segment. While drum brakes are not as sharp or responsive as disc brakes, they provided adequate stopping power for everyday riding. Given the relatively low power output of the Splendor 135, the braking system was well-matched to its performance capabilities, offering safe and predictable stopping distances.
Fuel Efficiency: Hero’s Trademark Quality
Fuel efficiency has always been a key selling point for Hero motorcycles, and the Splendor 135 was no exception. While it was more powerful than its smaller siblings, the motorcycle still offered an excellent fuel economy, which made it a practical option for those looking to save on fuel costs. The Hero Splendor 135 could deliver a mileage of approximately 50-60 km/l under normal riding conditions, which was impressive for a bike of its class.
This high fuel efficiency was achieved thanks to the efficient four-stroke engine, which balanced power output with economy. In a country like India, where fuel prices are a significant concern for daily commuters, the Splendor 135’s fuel economy made it an attractive choice for individuals who prioritized savings without compromising on the performance they needed.
Maintenance and Longevity
One of the standout features of the Hero Splendor 135, like other motorcycles in the Hero Splendor series, was its ease of maintenance. Hero MotoCorp’s bikes have a reputation for being reliable and low-maintenance, and the Splendor 135 was no different. The bike’s simple mechanical components and tried-and-tested engine design meant that owners could expect relatively low maintenance costs over the motorcycle’s lifespan.
Hero also offered a wide network of service centers, ensuring that owners could easily access spare parts and regular servicing. This accessibility to services and affordable parts further increased the Splendor 135’s appeal to budget-conscious riders.
The build quality of the Hero Splendor 135 was sturdy enough to endure the harsh conditions that many motorcycles face on the road. Whether it was the daily commute, occasional weekend rides, or tackling the unpredictable Indian weather, the Splendor 135 was designed to keep running smoothly for many years with proper care.
Legacy of the Hero Splendor 135
Though the Hero Splendor 135 was eventually discontinued as part of Hero MotoCorp’s shift towards more modern and feature-rich motorcycles, its legacy lives on in the hearts of riders who used the bike as their trusted companion for daily commuting. The Splendor 135, while not as popular as some of Hero’s other offerings, struck a chord with a certain segment of buyers who wanted a blend of sportiness, performance, and practicality.
Today, the Hero Splendor 135 still has a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciate the model for its simplicity, ease of use, and dependable performance. While the motorcycle may not be available in the market anymore, it continues to live on in the minds of those who experienced its ride.
Conclusion
The Hero Splendor 135, though not as famous as some of the other motorcycles in the Hero Splendor range, carved out a unique niche for itself by offering a more powerful and sportier alternative to the typical commuter bike. With a mix of style, performance, and fuel efficiency, the Splendor 135 catered to riders who wanted a bit more excitement without stepping up to a premium motorcycle.
For daily commuters, the Splendor 135 offered a solid and dependable solution to urban transportation, providing the right balance between performance, economy, and practicality. While it may not have been designed for speed enthusiasts or racing fans, the Hero Splendor 135 remains a testament to Hero MotoCorp’s ability to create reliable and functional motorcycles that meet the needs of a wide range of riders.