Hero Splendor iSmart

Hero Splendor iSmart was launched in 2013. It is the first model from Hero family to feature their own in-house developed i3S Smart System. This particular motorcycle was the biggest talking point in the country due to its evolutionary green technology. To add an extra bit of element, this Splendor uses a fresh and newer design rather than old looking customary outfit.



Design and Styling
This new Splendor may grab the attention with its new technology, but it is a good looking commuter as well. As fans were crying out for a change in their favorite motorcycle, Hero comes up with a stunning new design pattern. The core design structure of this motorcycle is adopted from the previous Splendor NXG.



This iSmart looks stunning and much better in paint scheme, when compared to other commuters from Hero. Two-tone paint job with minimal graphics are used in it. One of the makeover from Splendor NXG is the large body-coloured split grab rail, which offers superior comfort for the pillion. Other than that many other outfits like, new bikini fairing which houses clear lens headlight, foldable aluminium footrests for both pillion and rider and also the longer single seat with special red stitching are also featured in it. The fuel tank also bears the iconic i3S technology logo along with the iSmart badging.



This smart Splendor is available in 4 different paint jobs: Sports Red, Leaf Green, Excellent Blue and Heavy Green.

Engine
Splendor iSmart features the iconic 97.2cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke single cylinder engine with OHC system. It is an APDV engine (Advanced Pro Series Digital Variable Ignition System) with superb mileage with the injection of spark plugs by digitally controlling it, which offers better and efficient combustion of fuel. The mill churns out a maximum power of 8.36 PS @ 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 8.05 Nm @ 5000 rpm, which is mated with their 4-speed constant mesh gearbox for optimum power transmission. It uses side draft carburettor with variable venturi type with TCIS system. This small engine can reach a top speed of 87 kmph but 70kmph is best suited for this bike. Upto 70kmph power delivery is linear and stress free.



The other notable engine feature is the i3S smart system. It stands for Idle Start Stop System, which works by cutting the ignition when the bike stood idle for more than 5 seconds, for example, in traffic signal stops”. Once you press the clutch lever again, the engine will be comes to life again. This technology could save a fair amount of fuel in every single ride, especially in city-street traffics.



Chassis, Suspension and Braking
This Splendor iSmart is built with Tubular Double Cradle frame for superior strength and decent ride quality. It uses telescopic forks at the front and a set of hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear to deal with suspension in charges. Hero uses MRF tubeless tyres in this model, which offers more grip around the corners and offers a firm control over the roads. The braking system of the iSmart is similar to the Splendor NXG. It uses 130mm drum brake at the front and 110mm drum brake at the rear. The overall braking force of the bike is quite decent and good for 100cc motorbikes. The bike is marketed as a special bike with stunning engine features and newer technology, but it still doesn't have any refinement in suspension or braking department.

Features
It is one such special motorcycle, which is filled with features and technology. Their own developed iSmart technology is the most desired and notable feature of this bike. Right-hand side handlebar switchgear features i3S switch along with engine push-start button. Cosmetic changes of this bike consists of; full black alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, stylish split grab rails, very attractive and informative instrument console with side stand indicators and many required features and advanced techno style graphics adds the net effect.




Verdict
Hero Splendor iSmart is priced higher than Bajaj Discover and Honda Dream Yuga models. It is because of their innovative iSmart feature on this special bike. The ismart targets customers from urban markets as traffic congestion and stopping at signals are more and inconvenient. Thus, one could save a fair amount of money by riding iSmart across our countryside.