Hero Splendor 125 : Hero MotoCorp is taking things up a notch in the 125cc commuter segment, and it’s got one goal in mind—challenge the Honda Shine, India’s long-reigning favorite. The weapon of choice? The new Hero Splendor 125. It’s not just riding on the iconic Splendor name; it’s coming in strong with better fuel efficiency, modern features, and the trusted Hero reliability that’s built for India’s roads. So, does it have what it takes to take on the Shine? Let’s find out.

Looks Familiar, But With a Fresh Touch

The Splendor 125 stays true to its classic design language, and that’s not a bad thing. Riders love the no-nonsense, practical design, and Hero’s kept that intact. But there are some modern upgrades—sleeker graphics, blacked-out alloy wheels, chrome-tipped exhaust, and a compact tail lamp that makes the bike look sharp without going overboard. The overall build feels solid and clean, with just the right amount of styling to make it stand out in a crowd of commuters.

It still has that upright, comfortable riding posture the Splendor is known for, making it a perfect pick for both city and semi-urban usage.

Performance That Keeps It Easy and Efficient

Under the tank, the Hero Splendor 125 gets a 124.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that delivers around 10.7 bhp and 10.6 Nm of torque. Those numbers may seem modest, but the tuning focuses on smooth city riding, better pickup in low gears, and, most importantly—incredible mileage.

Hero has equipped the engine with its i3S (idle stop-start system) and XSens fuel-injection technology, which helps maximize fuel savings. Real-world mileage can easily go above 60 km/l, and in the hands of careful riders, even higher. It’s one of the key areas where the Splendor 125 wants to edge past the Honda Shine, which also offers good mileage but doesn’t have the idle-stop feature as standard across variants.

Hero Splendor 125 – Features That Actually Make a Difference

Hero hasn’t overloaded the Splendor 125 with fancy tech, but the features it offers are practical and make everyday use more comfortable. You get a digital-analog instrument cluster, which shows real-time mileage, gear position indicator, service reminder, and fuel economy readout. That’s super helpful for daily riders who want to keep track of performance and maintenance.

The bike also gets side-stand engine cut-off, an LED DRL, and a combi-brake system (CBS) for safer braking. The controls feel tactile, and the switchgear quality is pretty decent for the price point.

Ride Quality & Suspension Setup Built for Indian Roads

The Splendor 125 features telescopic front forks and twin hydraulic shocks at the rear, which work well to cushion bumps, potholes, and rough patches. It’s not a sporty suspension by any means, but it does what it’s meant to—offer comfort. Whether you’re zipping through city traffic or riding on village roads, the bike holds its own without rattling your spine.

Thanks to its lightweight frame and upright ergonomics, maneuvering the bike is easy even in heavy traffic or tight parking spots. It’s the kind of ride you can use for hours without much fatigue.

Taking the Fight to Honda Shine

Honda Shine has long been the king of the 125cc commuter segment, known for its refinement, smooth engine, and premium finish. But with this updated Splendor 125, Hero is going straight for the crown.

Where the Splendor really shines (pun intended) is in offering more fuel-saving features, a lower kerb weight, and value-for-money pricing. It’s clearly aimed at budget-conscious buyers who want reliable performance, low maintenance, and better economy without compromising on basic comfort and features.

Hero Splendor 125 – Price & Variants

The Hero Splendor 125 is available in multiple variants, with prices starting from around ₹85,000 (ex-showroom) and going up depending on the variant and options. It’s priced very close to the Honda Shine, but the inclusion of Hero’s fuel-saving tech and practical features gives it a competitive edge.

Also, Hero has a massive service network, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns, which means access to parts and maintenance is easier and cheaper for most people.

Is It the Better Pick for You?

If you’re someone who prioritizes fuel efficiency, ease of use, and trusted reliability, the Hero Splendor 125 should be high on your list. It’s not trying to be sporty or flashy. It’s built to be a durable, comfortable workhorse for daily commuting, and it does that job very well.

Compared to the Honda Shine, the Splendor 125 brings in a better mileage-focused approach and more useful features without asking for a premium. It might not have the Honda badge, but in terms of pure value and practicality, it’s definitely giving Shine a run for its money.

Final Thoughts

The Hero Splendor 125 may look simple, but it’s a well-thought-out package that delivers where it matters. With its improved fuel economy, tech-driven engine, and commuter-friendly comfort, it’s a serious contender in the 125cc game. Honda Shine might still be the benchmark for some, but Hero’s new offering is here to shake things up—and it’s doing a solid job of it.

If you’re in the market for a reliable commuter that’s light on the pocket and big on practicality, the Splendor 125 is worth a serious look.

Disclaimer:

Specifications, features, and prices mentioned in this article are based on currently available data and market reports. Actual performance and availability may vary depending on region and variant. Always confirm with your nearest authorized Hero dealership for the most accurate and updated information.