When we talk about motorcycles in India, the name Hero Splendor comes up almost instantly. For decades, this motorcycle has earned the trust of millions of riders because of its exceptional fuel efficiency, reliability, and low maintenance cost. At a time when rising fuel prices concern every commuter, the Splendor has consistently remained the first choice for budget-conscious and practical riders. Its ability to deliver outstanding mileage without compromising performance is what makes it India’s most loved commuter bike.
In this article, we will explore the fuel efficiency, mileage performance, technology, and real-world riding experience of the Hero Splendor in detail.
A Legacy of Mileage
The Hero Splendor was first launched in 1994, and since then it has become synonymous with “kitna deti hai?” (how much mileage does it give?). While many motorcycles come and go, the Splendor continues to dominate the market because of its unbeatable fuel economy. Hero MotoCorp has built its reputation around this bike as a no-nonsense, fuel-efficient, and trustworthy commuter motorcycle.
Even after three decades, the Splendor is still one of the highest-selling bikes in India, proving that its mileage and dependability are unmatched.
Engine Technology that Delivers Mileage
The Hero Splendor runs on a 97.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine, which is optimized for maximum efficiency. Hero MotoCorp’s i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology further enhances its performance by automatically turning off the engine when idle, for example at traffic signals, and restarting it instantly with a simple press of the clutch.
This small yet powerful feature saves fuel, especially in urban traffic conditions where frequent stops are unavoidable. The result is a motorcycle that not only offers excellent mileage but also contributes to reducing emissions and saving money in the long run.
Official Mileage Figures
According to Hero MotoCorp, the Hero Splendor delivers an impressive mileage of around 65-70 kmpl under standard test conditions. However, in real-world situations, mileage can vary depending on:
- Riding style
- Road conditions
- Traffic density
- Bike maintenance
Many users report that their Splendor gives between 60 to 65 kmpl in cities and up to 70-75 kmpl on highways, making it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles available today.
Real-World Mileage Performance
Hero Splendor’s fuel efficiency has been tested over the years in diverse Indian terrains, from busy metropolitan roads to rural highways. Here’s what most riders experience:
- City Riding (Stop-and-Go Traffic): 60–65 kmpl
- Highway Riding (Steady Speed): 70–75 kmpl
- Mixed Conditions: 65–70 kmpl
This consistency in mileage is one of the main reasons why both office-goers in cities and farmers in villages equally prefer the Splendor.
Fuel Tank Capacity and Range
The Hero Splendor comes with a 9.8-litre fuel tank, including a 1-litre reserve. When combined with its mileage performance, this allows the bike to cover 600–650 kilometers on a single full tank.
For a commuter, this means fewer visits to the fuel station and more savings every month. In rural areas where petrol pumps are often far away, this extended range makes the Splendor a practical choice.
Mileage vs. Competitors
In the commuter segment, the Hero Splendor competes with bikes like the Bajaj Platina, Honda Shine 100, and TVS Star City Plus. While each of these motorcycles promises fuel efficiency, the Splendor stands out because of its longstanding reputation and consistent real-world mileage.
For example:
- Bajaj Platina 100: 70–75 kmpl (claimed)
- Honda Shine 100: 65–70 kmpl (claimed)
- TVS Star City Plus: 65–70 kmpl (claimed)
- Hero Splendor: 65–75 kmpl (real-world tested over decades)
What makes Splendor unique is not just mileage numbers, but the fact that even after years of use, its fuel efficiency does not decline drastically if maintained properly.
Factors That Affect Splendor’s Mileage
While the Splendor is designed for high fuel efficiency, certain factors can influence its mileage performance:
- Riding Style – Aggressive acceleration and frequent braking can reduce fuel efficiency. Smooth and steady riding enhances mileage.
- Tyre Pressure – Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, reducing mileage. Keeping the correct tyre pressure ensures better performance.
- Maintenance – Regular servicing, timely oil changes, and cleaning the air filter keep the engine running smoothly.
- Load – Carrying excessive weight or riding with two pillion passengers can lower mileage.
- Road & Traffic Conditions – Mileage is higher on open highways compared to congested city traffic.
i3S Technology: The Game-Changer
Hero’s Idle Stop-Start System (i3S) is one of the key reasons why Splendor is ahead of many competitors in terms of mileage. By cutting off the engine when idle, it prevents unnecessary fuel wastage. This is particularly useful in urban areas where riders often get stuck at traffic lights.
The system not only improves fuel efficiency but also makes the bike more eco-friendly by reducing emissions.
Customer Experiences and Testimonials
Hero Splendor has millions of satisfied owners who swear by its unmatched fuel economy. Many riders share experiences of using their bike for over 10-15 years, still achieving more than 60 kmpl with regular maintenance.
Some long-distance commuters also highlight that the Splendor is the cheapest bike to run per kilometer, making it highly economical compared to scooters or bigger motorcycles.
Cost Savings with Hero Splendor
Fuel efficiency directly translates into cost savings. Let’s take an example:
- Suppose a rider covers 1,000 km every month.
- With an average mileage of 65 kmpl, fuel consumption will be about 15.3 litres per month.
- At an average petrol price of ₹100 per litre, the monthly fuel cost is just around ₹1,530.
Compare this to a motorcycle giving only 40 kmpl:
- Fuel required = 25 litres per month
- Monthly fuel cost = ₹2,500
This means the Hero Splendor saves nearly ₹1,000 every month on fuel alone. Over a year, the savings cross ₹12,000, which is substantial for a daily commuter.
Why Splendor Remains the Mileage King
The Hero Splendor is not just a motorcycle, it is a symbol of trust and economy. Its balance of fuel efficiency, low maintenance, and simple design makes it unbeatable in the commuter segment. While modern bikes may come with fancy features, Splendor focuses on what truly matters to the majority of Indian riders – mileage, reliability, and affordability.
Conclusion
The Hero Splendor has earned its legendary status in the Indian two-wheeler market primarily because of its fuel efficiency and mileage performance. With a tested mileage of 65–75 kmpl, a practical fuel tank capacity, and Hero’s reliable i3S technology, it is undoubtedly the mileage king of Indian roads.
For daily commuters, office workers, students, and rural riders alike, the Splendor offers the perfect mix of economy, dependability, and comfort. If saving fuel and money without compromising on reliability is your priority, then the Hero Splendor remains one of the best motorcycles you can own.