Hero HF Deluxe vs Hero Splendor Plus: What’s The Difference?

The Hero HF Deluxe and the Hero Splendor Plus are two popular models in the brand’s 100cc lineup. Both share the same engine, and have a lot of parts in common. But when comparing the base variants of both, there’s a Rs 20,000 difference in price! We explain what is actually different between the two:

Design

The Hero HF Deluxe has a more rounded headlight section and is very different from the rectangular headlight of the Splendor Plus. The HF Deluxe’s fuel tank also looks a bit chunkier compared to the Splendor Plus’ rectangular tank.

But when comparing both the bikes side to side, the Splendor Plus manages to stand out with its iconic design that many have come to love. The HF Deluxe feels more like a premium commuter. Although the HF Deluxe looks good, many riders might prefer the Splendor Plus because of its simple looks.

That said, we still think the Hero HF Deluxe manages to feel a bit more premium compared to the Splendor. This might be something newer  customers might prefer compared to the Splendor which has become a bit dated over the years.

Engine

Powering both bikes is the same 97.2cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder motor, which produces 8.02PS and 8.05Nm. The engine is refined, and has been quite popular in India for the excellent mileage it is able to offer.

Underpinnings

The Splendor Plus and the HF Deluxe are quite similar in terms of underpinnings. They get the same suspension and braking setup. Both bikes are suspended on a telescopic fork and a twin rear shock absorber setup, but the one on the Splendor gets 5-step adjustability whereas the one on the HF Deluxe only gets 2-step adjustility. The braking is handled by a 130mm drum brake setup at both ends. Both models also get 18-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.

But there are two areas where there’s a big difference. The HF Deluxe has a seat height of 805mm, whereas the Splendor Plus has a more accessible seat height of 785mm. This means that the Splendor Plus might be easier for shorter riders to use, whereas taller riders might feel more comfortable on the HF Deluxe.

The fuel tank capacity of both is also different, with the Splendor having a 9.8-litre tank and the HF Deluxe getting a 9.6-litre tank. The difference is not massive, but might be evident in the overall range that’s available on a full tank of fuel.

Features 

The base variants of both bikes get a twin-pod analogue instrument console, with a speedometer and a fuel-level indicator. There’s also a digital inset for trip and odometer readouts. 

But the higher-end Pro variant of the HF Deluxe gets a digital console, whereas on the Hero Splendor Plus you’ll only get this feature in the Splendor Plus Xtec lineup. So overall, the HF Deluxe has a lot more to offer, and feels more premium.

Price & Verdict

The bikes are offered in multiple variants with the following prices: 

When comparing both bikes, the differences are not that great. But the way they look, and the experience they offer might be very different. If you’re someone who wants a premium commuter that too at an affordable price, the Pro variant of the HF Deluxe has you covered. It gets a premium LCD console, which looks quite nice and is easy to read.

The Splendor Plus is now a bit too pricey for what it has to offer. You can easily get the premium feel with the HF Deluxe, that too for Rs 6,000 cheaper. The Splendor Plus only makes sense if you like the iconic design and don’t have an issue with spending a bit more.