The Super Splendor that we reviewed a few months ago has finally been launched by Hero MotoCorp at Rs 57,190 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The updated 125cc commuter, to refresh your memory, is equipped with Hero’s in-house developed 124.7cc non-sloper motor that’s also seen in the new Glamour launched in 2017.
The new Super Splendor’s motor produces 11.5hp at 7,500rpm and 11Nm of torque at 6,000rpm. Those of you very clued into the Super Splendor’s vital stats will identify this as an increment of 1.9hp and 0.65Nm of torque. Like in the Glamour, the Super Splendor continues with a four-speed gearbox and also now weighs 124kg, which is 3kg heavier than the outgoing model.
It’s not only a new motor that distinguishes the new Super Splendor from the older model, but also a host of other value additions. To name a few, it now gets a mildly sportier-looking seat but one that is firm, reasonably wide and comfortable. The side panels have been revised, too and while it isn’t boxy anymore, Hero has made a conscious decision to not upset the horizontal profile of the motorcycle. According to Hero, the average Indian commuter buyer believes boxier designs and straighter lines represent ruggedness and stability – and we certainly won’t contest Hero’s knowledge about the Indian commuter market. Fair enough, right?
Moving on, the tail section is slightly more upswept than before and now gets a neatly-integrated LED tail-lamp as well as opposed to the angular, hexagonal unit on the outgoing model.
With a price tag of Rs 57,190, the Super Splendor is competitively priced (but noticeably undercut by Bajaj’s typically aggressive pricing), although it doesn’t offer a disc brake even as an option. Its similarly configured rivals (with features like electric start, drum brakes and alloy wheels), meanwhile, are priced at Rs 53,670 (Discover), Rs 56,429 (CB Shine), Rs 58,458 (Bajaj V12) and Rs 59,946 (new Glamour) (all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi).
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
