Hero Splendor Plus BS6 vs Splendor iSmart BS6: Family Feud

They share the same name but are quite different. We tell you which one is for you

The Hero Splendor has been quite a profitable motorcycle for Hero MotoCorp for decades now. While the Splendor’s motor was used in several models like the HF Deluxe and Passion, the original Splendor continues to sell the most and still remains the best selling motorcycle in India in the guise of the Splendor Plus BS6. Hero also sells a more modern, powerful and feature-rich version of the Splendor called the Splendor iSmart BS6. While the Splendor iSmart was supposed to be the successor to the Splendor, popular demand means both motorcycles continue to sell even today. So which one suits you better?

Also read: Hero Splendor iSmart: BS4 vs BS6

Design:

The Splendor Plus BS6 continues to use the decades-old familiar design but gets new stickers and alloy wheels. It gets features like i3S start-stop tech, tubeless tyres, optional self start and maintenance-free battery. The Splendor iSmart BS6 in comparison has a more upmarket design. It gets a dual-tone paint scheme and body-coloured rim tapes on the blacked-out alloy wheels. Even the engine and exhaust are given the blacked-out treatment. It was the first motorcycle to get i3S start-stop technology, and the BS6 version now also gets a front disc brake.

Also read: Hero HF Deluxe BS6 vs Hero Splendor Plus BS6: Family Feud

Powerplant:

The Splendor Plus BS6 continues to use the decade-old sloper engine but it now gets fuel-injection. The updated motor makes 0.35PS less than the BS4 version. It continues to make the same torque as before but that arrives 1000 rpm higher in the rev range. The addition of fuel injection and start stop tech should help the Splendor Plus return better fuel efficiency. The Splendor iSmart BS6 with its more modern upright motor and slightly more cubic capacity makes more power at lower rpm compared to the Splendor Plus BS6. Given the presence of fuel Injection, both motorcycles are expected to offer smoother operation and better fuel efficiency. 

Underpinnings:

The Splendor Plus BS6 gets a dual-cradle frame with telescopic forks and twin shock absorbers. For braking, the Splendor Plus BS6 gets 130mm drum brakes at both ends. Fuel tank capacity is 9.8 litres, ground clearance is 165mm and weight is 112kg. The Splendor iSmart BS6 gets a new diamond frame that has resulted in a higher 180mm ground clearance. The front telescopic forks have 15mm more travel while the dual shock absorbers remain unchanged. Braking receives an upgrade with a new 240mm front disc while the 130mm rear drum remains unchanged. It weighs 116kg while fuel tank capacity is slightly lower at 9.5 litres. Both motorcycles get 18-inch alloy wheels with 80/100-18 tubeless tyres on both ends.

Verdict: 

The Splendor Plus BS6 is available in 3 variants, with Rs 3,510 separating the base variant from the top variant. The Splendor still has rugged bodywork and underpinnings which makes it well suited to rural areas. As for the motor, only time will tell if the updated and fuel-injected motor retains its legendary reliability. We like to think it would. 

Then you have the Splendor iSmart BS6 which is available in just one variant whose specs match the Splendor BS6’s top variant. You pay Rs 4,040 more for the Splendor iSmart BS6 but you get a more upmarket bodywork, better underpinnings and the added safety of a disc brake. If you ride more in the city and are looking for a frugal bike, the Splendor iSmart BS6 makes more sense.