Hero has quietly done what Hero does best refined the formula that already works. The 2026 Hero Splendor Plus doesn’t scream for attention, but it doesn’t need to. The country’s best-selling commuter just got a mild, meaningful refresh, and for millions of daily riders, that’s big news.
A Familiar Face With Fresh Paint
Walk up to the 2026 Splendor Plus and you’ll notice something subtle—Hero hasn’t reinvented anything here. Instead, it feels like they’ve polished a well-loved gem. The silhouette remains classic: simple lines, upright ergonomics, no-nonsense proportions. That’s Splendor, as dependable as your neighborhood chai guy. But Hero’s added a new color scheme and cleaner, sharper graphics.
That’s always been the Splendor aesthetic—don’t fix what’s not broken, just make it a little nicer every year. This time, the updates lend the bike a slightly more urban vibe, something commuters in Tier 1 cities will appreciate without alienating riders in smaller towns.
The Trusted 97.2cc Engine Gets Smoother
Underneath the refreshed styling sits the same 97.2cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, the heart of the Splendor lineup for decades. But Hero’s engineers have reportedly tuned it again—this time to reduce vibrations and deliver a smoother throttle response.
That might sound minor, but anyone who has ridden this engine on long commutes knows how noticeable small tweaks can be. Hero claims refinement is the priority here, especially for riders who spend an hour crawling through weekday traffic.
The expected specs remain familiar:
| Specification | 2026 Hero Splendor Plus |
|---|---|
| Engine | 97.2cc air-cooled, FI |
| Power | ~7.9 PS (expected) |
| Torque | ~8.05 Nm (expected) |
| Mileage | 70–80 kmpl (estimated) |
| Braking | Drum brakes with CBS |
| Weight | Lightweight commuter frame |
| Expected Price | ₹75,000–₹80,000 (ex-showroom) |
| Launch | 2026 |
Mileage: Still the Kingmaker
Let’s be real—Splendor’s empire was built on mileage, not horsepower. And in 2026, that doesn’t change. Hero insiders expect the new model to deliver 70–80 kmpl, depending on traffic, riding style, and fuel quality.
For office-goers and daily riders trying to stretch every rupee, that range remains unbeatable. With some 110cc bikes creeping toward lower fuel efficiency due to added tech and weight, the Splendor Plus stands tall by sticking to what it does best: reliable, wallet-friendly travel.
Small Comfort Upgrades That Matter on Real Roads
Hero’s tweaks for 2026 read like a checklist of what riders have been complaining about—and rightly so. The seat has been re-padded, the suspension is said to be more compliant, and the instrument cluster gets a mild refresh with clearer markings and a slightly modern look.
Not flashy, but functional. And honestly, that’s been the Splendor story for three decades. This bike doesn’t chase trends like full-digital clusters or aggressive fairings. It prioritizes comfort, visibility, and ease of use.
Think of it this way: if the 2024 model was like a well-worn pair of sneakers, the 2026 version feels like the same pair with memory foam added. You notice it over time, especially on those patchy roads that make even metro commutes feel like rural trail rides.
Handling That Welcomes Every Rider
Another reason the Splendor Plus outsells sportier competitors is that it’s simply easy. Lightweight frame, smooth clutch, predictable throttle, and stable handling—even first-time riders get comfortable quickly.
The 2026 refresh doesn’t veer away from that DNA. Hero’s adjustments aim to make the bike even more versatile across ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a college student learning clutch control or a 50-year-old office worker who’s been loyal to the badge since the ’90s, this bike meets you where you are.
Braking That Suits City Chaos
The bike continues with drum brakes paired with CBS, a setup that keeps costs low while offering safer, more confident braking during sudden stops—something every commuter in Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru encounters daily.
While it’s not groundbreaking tech, it’s sufficient for the Splendor’s performance and weight class. Hero is clearly sticking to affordability, and skipping disc brakes helps keep the cost in check.
Pricing and Launch Timeline
Hero MotoCorp is expected to announce official launch details soon, but early estimates put the 2026 Splendor Plus between ₹75,000 and ₹80,000 (ex-showroom). That places it right in the sweet spot for the entry-level commuter segment.
Given the strong demand for reliable, petrol-efficient motorcycles—especially in rising fuel-price cycles—the refreshed Splendor Plus is almost guaranteed to repeat the success of its predecessors.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Refresh Matters
Some people might shrug off such incremental updates, but in commuter land, small changes have big effects. The Splendor Plus isn’t trying to be flashy or futuristic. It’s trying to be dependable, refined, and practical—traits India’s mass commuter base depends on.
For millions, this isn’t a hobby machine. It’s a livelihood mover. A family vehicle. A trusted companion that doesn’t break down or break the bank. And Hero seems to understand that better than anyone.
Conclusion
The 2026 Hero Splendor Plus stays true to its roots—reliable, fuel-efficient, easy to ride—while adding just enough polish to feel modern. The smoother engine tuning, better seat, updated graphics, and refined suspension aren’t headline grabbers, but they’re exactly what real riders want.
If you’re looking for a commuter motorcycle that stretches every litre, handles city punishment, and carries the quiet confidence of a bike that has served India for decades, this refreshed Splendor Plus is a smart, sensible pick.
FAQs
What is the mileage of the 2026 Hero Splendor Plus?
The new model is expected to deliver 70–80 kmpl, depending on riding conditions.
Has the engine changed in the 2026 Splendor Plus?
It uses the same 97.2cc engine but with improved refinement, reduced vibrations, and smoother throttle response.
What’s the expected price?
Hero is likely to price it between ₹75,000 and ₹80,000 (ex-showroom).
Are there any new features?
Updated graphics, improved instrument cluster, better seat cushioning, and refined suspension are the key upgrades.
Does it come with disc brakes?
No, the 2026 Splendor Plus continues with drum brakes and CBS for smoother city braking.
