Hero MotoCorp has launched India’s first BS-VI motorcycle, the Splendor iSmart. The BS-VI Splendor iSmart has been designed and developed at Hero MotoCorp’s Center of Innovation and Technology (CIT) in Rajasthan, India.
Also Read: EICMA 2019 - Hero XPulse 200 Rally Kit debuts
The BS-VI Splendor iSmart will become available at dealerships across the country over the next four weeks. It has been priced at an ex-showroom price tag of INR 64,900*. In comparison, the BS-IV model was priced at INR 57,430*.
Speaking about the launch of the new product, Malo Le Masson, Head - Global Product Planning, Hero MotoCorp, said:
This is the first BS-VI compliant motorcycle homologated in the country with a new engine family, and a new chassis design, completely designed and developed at our Centre of Innovation and Technology (CIT) in Jaipur. Conforming to stringent BS-VI emission norms, while improving the performance capabilities, style quotient and riding experience of the motorcycle is a remarkable feat. All these, under the successful Splendor franchise provide a highly appealing proposition for the customers. This marks the commencement of the transition of our product range to BS-VI norms.
In terms of styling, the new model features budget-specific hardware to ensure that the price increase is minimal. Thus, illumination tasks are performed by a halogen headlight at the front. However, Hero MotoCorp promises enhanced brightness on the new model. The design cues are near identical to the BS-IV model, and thus you would find a familiar front fascia, single-piece saddle with an almost flat layout and a split-style pillion grab rail. The dual-tone finish to the rear-view mirror housing has been carried forward from the BS-IV version.
However, the new model uses a diamond frame instead of a tubular double cradle type unit on its predecessor. The latest version is also distinguished by a new paint scheme. The BS-VI Hero Splendor iSmart is available in three colour options – Techno Blue & Black, Sports Red & Black and Force Silver & Heavy Grey. The headlight mask and the blinkers have received a few styling tweaks as well.
The cockpit continues to feature a semi-digital instrument console, although it receives a few tweaks. The Neutral Gear indicator and the side-stand indicator, for example, have been repositioned under the fuel gauge.
Bigger changes have come to the engine of the new Splendor iSmart. The new version packs an updated engine that features several changes to comply with the latest emission norms. The 113.2 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor now features a fuel injection system, and it pumps out 9 hp of max power and a peak torque of 9.89 Nm. The BS-IV compliant model, for reference, made 9.5 hp of power and 9 Nm of torque.
The BS-VI model promises 45% and 88% reduction in carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) respectively. Hero MotoCorp also claims an improved fuel economy from the updated engine. The new bike retains the Idle Stop and Start System (i3S). The feature turns off the engine at long halts to save fuel. The motor is brought back to life as soon as the clutch is engaged.
The dimensions have also witnessed a few updates, and the BS-VI Splendor iSmart boasts a ground clearance improvement of 15 mm over its predecessor (180 mm vs 165 mm). The suspension travel has been increased by 15 mm as well, and the BS-VI model should offer improved comfort levels. Shock absorption hardware continues to feature 30 mm conventional front forks and twin rear springs. The wheelbase is longer by 36 mm over the BS-IV model for better stability.
Braking setup includes a 240 mm disc at the front and a 130 mm drum at the back. The motorcycle is available in two variants – Self Drum Cast and Self Disc Cast. Do note that the front disc brake is a new feature on the iSmart (BS-VI onwards).
*Ex-showroom Delhi Prices
