The Hero Splendor Plus has remained a familiar name in India’s commuter motorcycle market for many years. Over time, different model years and variants have introduced changes in colours, graphics, equipment and technology while maintaining the motorcycle’s basic commuter-focused identity.
Customers considering a new Splendor Plus may want to compare it with an older model before making a purchase decision. A comparison helps buyers understand the differences in features, instrument displays, lighting, engine specifications and ownership considerations.
This article explains the important points to compare between newer and older Hero Splendor Plus models.
1. Overall Design and Styling Changes
The overall Splendor design has maintained a traditional commuter motorcycle appearance. Different model years may feature updated graphics, paint combinations and minor exterior styling changes.
The new model range can offer different colour choices depending on the variant. Older models may have different decals and body-panel finishes.
Buyers should compare the actual motorcycles rather than assuming that every newer model has a completely different design.
2. New Model and Previous Model Colour Options
Hero offers multiple colour combinations across the current Splendor Plus range. The exact colours depend on the selected version and current availability.
Older model years may have discontinued or different colour combinations.
Customers purchasing a new motorcycle should check the latest official colour chart. Buyers considering a used model should inspect the original paint condition and verify whether any body panels have been repainted.
3. Engine Specifications Comparison
The current published Splendor Plus specification includes a 97.2cc, air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder OHC engine.
Hero lists maximum power of 5.9 kW at 8,000 rpm and maximum torque of 8.05 Nm at 6,000 rpm for the specified current configuration.
Older models may have different technical specifications or emission-related equipment. Always compare the brochure and registration details for the exact manufacturing year.
4. Fuel Injection and Engine Technology
The current published specification includes programmed fuel injection.
Earlier models may have different fuel-delivery arrangements depending on their manufacturing year and emission standard.
This is an important difference for buyers comparing a new motorcycle with an older used vehicle. Check the exact engine and fuel-system specification before purchasing.
5. i3S Technology Availability
Selected Splendor Plus variants offer i3S technology. It is designed to reduce unnecessary engine idling in suitable stationary conditions.
The availability of i3S can differ according to model year and variant. Buyers should not assume that every older or newer Splendor Plus has identical equipment.
Check the official feature list of the specific motorcycle.
6. Instrument Cluster: Analogue vs Digital Display
The standard Splendor Plus uses an analogue instrument cluster, while the XTEC range offers a full digital meter.
This creates a visible difference between the traditional standard model and technology-oriented versions.
Digital display information and additional indicators depend on the variant. Buyers should inspect the actual instrument cluster before finalising a purchase.
7. Bluetooth Connectivity and Smart Features
Selected XTEC variants offer Bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts when paired with a compatible smartphone.
These features are not available on every Splendor Plus model. Customers comparing an older standard version with a newer XTEC should check the official feature list carefully.
The additional technology may be useful to buyers who prefer digital information and connectivity features.
8. Headlamp and Lighting Improvements
Lighting equipment can differ between model years and variants.
The XTEC range includes LED position-light styling, while the XTEC 2.0 offers a full LED headlamp according to Hero’s published information.
Older standard versions may have different lighting equipment. Confirm the exact configuration before making a purchase.
9. Wheels, Tyres and Braking Equipment
Selected current variants offer alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. Hero’s published specifications list 80/100-18 tyres at both ends for the specified alloy-wheel configuration.
Wheel and brake arrangements can differ by variant and model year. Buyers should inspect the official specification sheet and verify the equipment fitted to the motorcycle.
10. Comfort, Dimensions and Riding Practicality
The current published specifications include a 785 mm saddle height, 165 mm ground clearance and 1,236 mm wheelbase for the listed configuration.
These measurements help customers understand the motorcycle’s size and general practicality.
When comparing old and new models, buyers should inspect the seat condition, suspension and handlebar position, especially when purchasing a used motorcycle.
11. New Model Warranty and Ownership Support
Hero’s published warranty information states five years or 70,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, for applicable motorcycles, subject to terms and conditions.
A used older model may have limited or no remaining manufacturer warranty. Buyers should check the original purchase date, service records and applicable warranty conditions.
12. New Splendor Plus vs Used Previous Model: Price Considerations
A new motorcycle generally has a higher purchase cost than a comparable used motorcycle. However, the used vehicle may require additional maintenance or replacement parts.
Compare the new model’s on-road price with the used motorcycle’s asking price, transfer expenses, insurance and immediate repair requirements.
The cheapest initial option may not always be the lowest-cost option over the ownership period.
13. Which Model Is Better for Daily Commuting?
A new Splendor Plus may appeal to customers who want a new vehicle, current equipment and applicable manufacturer warranty.
A used older model may suit buyers who find a well-maintained motorcycle at a reasonable price and are comfortable with its age and features.
The right decision depends on budget, condition, expected usage and personal preferences.
14. Important Checks Before Choosing Between Models
Before selecting a motorcycle, compare:
- Exact manufacturing year and variant.
- Engine and fuel-system specifications.
- Available smart features.
- Instrument cluster and lighting.
- Tyre and braking equipment.
- Warranty and service history.
- On-road or second-hand purchase cost.
- Availability of genuine spare parts.
These points provide a more complete comparison than looking only at exterior styling.
Conclusion
The newer Hero Splendor Plus range offers different colour combinations and technology-focused variants, while older models may provide a lower-cost entry into the commuter motorcycle segment. Important differences can include fuel-system specifications, instrument displays, lighting, connectivity and warranty status. Compare the exact variants and model years before making a purchase decision.