Hero Splendor iSmart 2020 Handling- Comfort, Features, Specs and Competition
Commuter bikes are made to run longer and comfortably without a hiccup. This makes it a challenge for motorcycle manufacturers to provide with an aggressively priced product. But Hero has been in this business for over two decades now and that has helped them perfect the formula.
Hero Splendor iSmart is the most advanced 110cc motorcycle in the segment and it has a lot of first-time features. It is powered by a 109.51cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that pumps out 8.97 bhp and 9.89 Nm and gives mileage of 75 KMPL. It also comes with impressive features like disc brake and i3S technology which helps in handling and fuel consumption.
How good is Hero Splendor iSmart in handling?
Handling has improved notably over the last iteration of Splendor and the positioning of Hero’s new homegrown engine is a prime reason for this. Upright positioning of the engine has allowed Hero to lower the centre of gravity as well as cut short its wheelbase. This helps in a more supple ride and added confidence in corners due to the low centre of gravity.
The suspension is barebone with 30mm telescopic forks up front and twin preload-adjustable shocks at the rear(in red!). The hero has tweaked the springs for a more comfortable ride and by making it less stiff. Ceat Secura Zoom tyres provide with impressive levels of grip even on loose ground. Foldable footpegs are a new touch for times when you plan on being aggressive in the corners.
Motorcycle | Hero Splendor iSmart 110 | Honda CD 110 Dream | TVS Star City Plus |
Length(mm) | 2048 | 2043 | 1980 |
Width(mm) | 762 | 737 | 750 |
Height(mm) | 1110 | 1074 | 1080 |
Wheelbase(mm) | 1270 | 1285 | 1252 |
Front tyre | 80/100-18 | 80/100-18 | 80/100-17 |
Rear tyre | 80/100-18 | 80/100-18 | 80/100-17 |
Front suspension | Telescopic forks | Telescopic forks | Telescopic forks |
Rear suspension | Adjustable twin shocks | Spring-loaded hydraulic shocks | 5-Step spring-loaded hydraulic shocks |
Braking is on point and Splendor iSmart 110 comes with a 240 mm disc up front and a 130 mm drum at the rear. There is no lag in terms of braking or the bite it provides for but the rear drum has a very aperture which needs you to push the pedal all the way. The disc upfront is a boon and with Hero’s Integrated Braking System(IBS) this Splendor is sure-footed.
How comfortable is the 2020 Splendor iSmart?
Comfort has been bumped up in the 2020 Splendor iSmart 110 with a lot of mechanical and aesthetic changes. The biggest being its new double-cradle frame which has been reworked to minimise vibrations from the engine. Footpegs are wide and well-padded to provide for a comfortable seating position.
Rider’s triangle is well preserved in the Splendor iSmart and you sit upright with relaxed arms due to its higher and wider handlebar. The seat is comfortably cushioned and provides for a fatigue-free riding all day long. Despite. Vibrations, however, are still felt albeit at higher RPMs and when threading the needle.
Motorcycle | Hero Splendor iSmart 110 | Honda CD 110 Dream | TVS Star City Plus |
Seat height(mm) | 770 | 790 | 785 |
Ground clearance(mm) | 165 | 179 | 172 |
Kerb weight(kg) | 116 | 111 | 109 |
Starting system | Kick/Electric | Kick/Electric | Kick/Electric |
165 mm of ground clearance help shorter riders to ride comfortable and Hero provides with both a kicker and a self-start unit for seamless ignition. Kerb weight is also well within standards. It is evident from the above comparison that Hero Splendor iSmart is the most easy-going bike of this lot as its compact dimensions help for a more riding friendly approach. Honda CD 110 Dream is the tallest of this lot and shorter riders will find it difficult.
Is the 2020 Splendor iSmart better than its competition?
Hero has worked up on a lot of loose ends in the Splendor and it bears fruit as the 2020 Splendor iSmart is the most comfortable we have ridden. Its share of modern features help in providing for a relaxed riding experience and as always, reliability remains its strong point. The competitors have improved well over time, but as soon as they manage to catch up, Hero jumps to levels and thus keeps the competition heated. 2020 Hero Splendor iSmart is the most well-rounded bike of this lot.
