Hero Splendor iSmart review, test ride

Succeeding the CD 100’s path, the first-generation Splendor bike was launched in India in 1994 under Hero’s partnership with Honda, receiving strong sales figures ever since, with nominal technical and cosmetic upgrades over time. This time round, Hero MotoCorp has provided the Splendor with an innovative technology called the i3S (idle stop and start system), which is more commonly seen in cars. The company claims that this technology enables the new Splendor iSmart to achieve better fuel efficiency figures. We get astride this new motorcycle to give you an insight on how well it commutes in our busy traffic conditions.

The Splendor iSmart makes a fresh style statement, and is easily recognisable as a commuter from its Hero family, showing off design cues similar to its predecessor the Splendor NXG. But that’s where the similarity ends as Hero has provided this commuter with smart looking graphics that makes the bike stand out in comparison to its competitors. A clear lens headlight, powered by a halogen lamp, sits within a bikini fairing. Apart from this, the bike gets an instrument cluster tucked under a black visor, housing an analogue speedometer, odometer and fuel meter, along with an i3S indicator and other basic warning lights, all of which are easily legible. The Splendor iSmart comes with sporty, 18-inch alloy wheels, finished in black along with its engine, exhaust and chain guard.

The iSmart offers good quality palm grips and crisp feeling switchgear that includes a pass light flasher and i3S cut-off switch.