As the country moves towards BSVI emission norms that are mandated by the end of next quarter, manufactures are using this time to make a smooth transition. And Hero MotoCorp is starting its journey with the Splendor iSmart BSVI compliant motorcycle.
Hero MotoCorp has once again beaten Honda, to the launch of a BS6 product. As early as June 2019, Hero MotoCorp announced BSVI certification for its Splendor iSmart. This was just a day ahead of Honda revealing their Activa BS6. Despite this, it was in fact Honda’s Activa scooter that’s the first mass market BSVI compliant two-wheeler to go on sale.
Now, when Honda has announced launch date of their first BS6 motorcycle on 14th Nov, Hero has gone ahead and launched their first BS6 motorcycle, the Splendor iSmart at a price of Rs 64,900. This is the first ever digital launch of Hero MotoCorp. Watch the digital launch of Hero Splendor BS6 below.
In September, a Type Approval Certificate was issued by ICAT. In its BSVI avatar, Splendor iSmart base model is larger than the outgoing model. It now gets power from a 113.2cc engine. The outgoing variants get the job done with a 109.15cc engine. The new variants are available with the option of drum and disc brake.
A catalytic convertor takes care of reducing toxicity of pollutants emitted. The BSVI update has resulted in 45 percent reduction in carbon monoxide and 88 percent in NoX. An oil filter has been used, a segment first feature. The engine is tuned for more torque and now offers 10 percent more torque throughout the range.
The newly introduced diamond frame ensures improved stability and agility. Though seat height remains unchanged ground clearance has been increased by 15mm and now stands at 180mm for better varied terrain manoeuvrability.
2020 Hero Splendor iSmart doesn’t get a significant different makeover where dimensions are concerned. Disc brake variant weighs in a kilo heavier and 10mm wider. The single-cylinder, air cooled engine returns 9.15 hp power at 7,500 rpm. That’s a wee bit lower than 9.5 hp peak power from the 109.15cc BSIV compliant engine. With a new engine head that’s fine-tuned for fuel efficiency, as it stands, increased displacement hasn’t equated to increase in power.
This new engine comes with fuel injection tech, and and i3S tech. The latter is responsible for Idle Start and Stop System. It works by turning off the engine during long halts, and restarts it when clutch is released.
With this, one can adapt to a 10-15 percent hike in price, as well as fuel efficiency. As expected, the manufacturer is keeping things competitive considering how important the until now 110cc bike is for the company.
While basic design remains the same, the front and rear design has been tweaked. Improved suspension and an increased wheelbase (36mm longer) the vehicle brings even more stability. Headlamp brightness is enhanced. Bikes will reach dealerships over the next 3-4 weeks. Launch price is listed as Rs 64,900 ex sh, Delhi.