Hero Splendor Pro Classic Comeback Likely, New Design Patent Filed

Hero's new patent hints at a modern Splendor Pro Classic comeback.

Introduction 

Hero MotoCorp has applied for a design patent in India for a new entry-level retro motorcycle. The patent images suggest that the new motorcycle takes inspiration from the old Splendor Pro Classic. However, Hero appears to have made a few changes to make the motorcycle more practical and up-to-date.

The Hero Splendor Pro Classic was first introduced in 2014 at a cost of Rs 48,650 in Delhi. It remained in production for nearly four years before being discontinued in 2018 just before the implementation of BS4 emission norms. This patent application shows that Hero might be planning to relaunch the concept in a new avatar.

Updated Design and Equipment

From the patent drawings, it can be seen that there is a round headlamp on the motorcycle that will most likely incorporate LED lights. Moreover, there will be alloy wheels on the motorcycle, which means that tubeless tyres will also be used. This is one of the main updates over the existing design since the previous Splendor Pro Classic had wire-spoked wheels with tube-type tyres.

Another change is that the upcoming motorcycle has a longer single-piece seat. As compared to the existing design, which was basically a single-seater motorcycle, the upcoming bike is expected to offer better usability.

A major drawback of the Splendor Pro Classic was the lack of a pillion seat, making the bike less usable for many buyers. It looks like Hero has fixed this problem with this design update. With the longer seat, the bike will now easily be able to accommodate both the rider and a pillion passenger.

Instrument Console and Paint Options

The patent images show a dual-pod instrument cluster similar in design to the unit used on the earlier Splendor Pro Classic. At this stage, it remains unclear whether Hero will use a traditional analogue setup or introduce a more modern digital display.

The previous Splendor Pro Classic was sold in just two colour options — Carbon Black and Solid Maroon. The new motorcycle is expected to arrive with a wider range of premium dual-tone and multi-tone paint schemes.

Possible Engine Option

The old Splendor Pro Classic was powered by a 97.2cc single-cylinder engine that produced 8.2 bhp and 8 Nm of torque. However, with buyer preferences changing over the years, Hero could consider using a larger and more modern 125cc engine for the new model.

Could Get Flex-Fuel Capability

Hero MotoCorp has already confirmed plans to introduce multiple flex-fuel vehicles in India over the coming months. These models are capable of running on E85 fuel. There is a possibility that this upcoming retro-style motorcycle could be among them.

The company recently launched E85-compatible versions of the HF Deluxe and Splendor+ in the Indian market. Given Hero's increasing focus on flex-fuel technology, the new motorcycle inspired by the Splendor Pro Classic could be offered with E85 compatibility right from launch.

Featured Image: Rendered