Hero Super Splendor

The new Hero Super Splendor has been designed with a more fluid, contemporary touch while not straying too much from the Splendor’s utilitarian design language. For starters, the headlamp cowl retains the familiar silhouette but the flyscreen is slightly sportier. The utility box under the fuel tank is now smaller, and the side panels get silver highlights which neatly cover the carburettor. At the rear, the grab rail is merged with the tail-section of the bodywork for a more contemporary look. The graphics on the bodywork is also new, and the bike comes in five colour choices.

The instrument cluster is a three-pod unit with the left-most one housing the neutral, side-stand indicator and high-beam telltale light. The speedometer and the odometer are in the centre pod, whereas the fuel gauge is in the one on the right.

Powering this commuter bike is a single-cylinder 124.7cc air-cooled engine that pushes out 11.2PS at 7500rpm and 11Nm at 6500rpm. A 4-speed transmission transfers the power to the rear wheel. The engine’s efficiency is enhanced by i3S start-stop technology which switches off the ignition if it idles for a while. It turns back on when the clutch lever is depressed. This tech should improve fuel efficiency when ridden through roads clogged by traffic. The i3S feature is switchable too.

Telescopic forks up front and twin five-step preload adjustable shock absorbers at the rear are mounted on the tubular double cradle frame. The ride quality is relatively stiffer than the previous-gen bike. The chassis allows for agile handling at low speeds but needs to instil more confidence at higher speeds.

Braking is taken care by 130mm drum units on both ends. The bite is good but it lacks feel. Hero does not offer a front disc even as an option. This would’ve improved the bike’s braking performance considerably.

The new Hero Super Splendor makes do with a 130mm drum brakes on both ends. Hero is likely to introduce Integrated Braking ahead of April 2019 when new safety norms take effect. As per the new norms, the CBS will be compulsory for two-wheelers with engines below 125cc. For added safety, the bike also gets Always Headlamp On (AHO) feature, which improves visibility even during the day time.