Best Hero Splendor Plus Alternatives Under ₹90,000 in 2025: Budget Bikes & Scooters
Featured Stories by Team Drivio | 22 Apr 2025
The Hero Splendor Plus has been a dominant force in the Indian commuter motorcycle market for decades, synonymous with reliability and fuel efficiency. However, with the top-end Splendor Plus Xtec Disc variant priced at ₹86,051 (ex-showroom Delhi, as stated for April 2025), budget-conscious buyers have more options than ever before. This comprehensive guide looks beyond the Hero Splendor Plus to explore the best affordable alternatives available in the same under ₹90,000 price range in 2025.
Whether you prioritize the most fuel-efficient bike, a practical scooter, or even CNG and electric two-wheeler options, this article details compelling choices that offer excellent value for money compared to the popular Splendor Plus.
Important Note on Data Accuracy (April 2025): The prices and specifications mentioned in this article are based on the information provided for April 2025. While reviewed for internal consistency and general plausibility for that timeframe, exact real-world ex-showroom and on-road prices, availability, and specific feature details can vary based on location, variant, dealership offers, and manufacturing updates. Always verify the latest information with official manufacturer websites and local dealerships before making a purchase decision.
Top 10 Hero Splendor Plus Alternatives Under ₹90,000 (Based on April 2025 Data)
Here are the top contenders offering a viable alternative to the Hero Splendor Plus for buyers on a budget:
1. Hero HF Deluxe - The Ultimate Budget Commuter Bike
- Price: ₹59,998 - ₹67,538 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 97.2cc single-cylinder (8.02PS power and 8.05Nm torque)
- Mileage: Claimed fuel efficiency of 70-75 kmpl
- Weight: 112kg (kerb)
- Key Features: Electric start, i3S idle start-stop (select variants), alloy wheels.
Why Choose HF Deluxe Over Splendor Plus: As a direct competitor from the same manufacturer, the Hero HF Deluxe offers nearly identical engine performance, legendary reliability, and access to Hero's vast service network, but at a significantly lower price. Save up to ₹26,000 (compared to the Splendor Plus Xtec price provided) while getting the core budget commuter bike experience, making it the most affordable and value-driven Splendor alternative on this list.
2. Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear - The Comfort-Focused Alternative
- Price: ₹65,546 - ₹73,365 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 115.45cc (8.6PS power and 9.81Nm torque)
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
- Suspension: ComforTec technology with nitrox spring-on-spring
- Key Features: LED DRL, semi-digital instrument cluster, gear shift indicator, tubeless tires.
Why Choose Platina 110 Over Splendor Plus: The Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear prioritizes rider comfort with its advanced ComforTec suspension and a 5-speed transmission which aids in relaxed cruising and potentially better highway mileage compared to the Splendor's 4-speed. It's a strong Splendor competitor for riders seeking a smoother, more comfortable daily commute at a budget-friendly price point lower than the Splendor Plus Xtec.
3. TVS Radeon - Modern Classic Value Bike
- Price: ₹62,670 - ₹74,966 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 109.7cc Dura-Life (8.4PS power and 8.7Nm torque)
- Mileage: Claimed fuel efficiency of 69.3 kmpl
- Key Features: LED DRL, USB charging port, Synchronized Braking Technology (SBT), side stand indicator with engine inhibitor.
Why Choose Radeon Over Splendor Plus: The TVS Radeon stands out with its robust, classic styling and the inclusion of premium, safety-oriented features like SBT and a convenient USB charging port, often found in higher segments. Offering a distinct look and valuable features at a competitive price point lower than the Splendor Plus Xtec, the Radeon is a compelling and slightly more feature-rich alternative to the Splendor Plus.
4. Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG - India's Most Economical Two-Wheeler
- Price: ₹90,272 (ex-showroom Delhi, Drum Variant, based on April 2025 data)
- Fuel System: Dual-fuel (CNG + Petrol)
- Tank Capacity: 2kg CNG tank + 2-liter petrol tank
- Range: Combined range of approximately 330km
- Running Cost: Approximately ₹1.20/km (claimed, significantly lower than petrol bikes)
- Availability: Currently available in Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat, and Kerala (as stated in original text) with expansion planned.
Why Choose Freedom 125 Over Splendor Plus: While slightly exceeding the strict ₹90k mark for the base variant, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG offers revolutionary, ultra-low running costs. For high-mileage users, the initial slightly higher price is quickly offset by dramatic fuel savings. This CNG bike is the ultimate budget two-wheeler for minimizing daily expenses, offering a unique proposition not found in the Splendor Plus, especially for those in areas with CNG availability.
5. TVS Raider 125 - Sporty Commuter Alternative
- Price: ₹93,500 (ex-showroom Delhi, Disc Variant, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 124.8cc (11.4PS power and 11.2Nm torque)
- Performance: 0-60kmph in just 5.9 seconds
- Key Features: Digital console with smartphone connectivity (SmartXonnect variant), riding modes (Eco, Power).
- Weight: 123kg (kerb)
Why Choose Raider 125 Over Splendor Plus: Though priced slightly above the strict ₹90k cap, the TVS Raider 125 is included as it offers a significant upgrade in performance and features for a marginal premium (around ₹7,500 more than the Splendor Plus Xtec price provided). It delivers a sportier riding experience, more power, and modern tech like riding modes and connectivity – features absent in the Splendor Plus. It's a great Splendor competitor for younger riders or those wanting more excitement along with efficiency from their daily commute.
6. Suzuki Access 125 Disc - Premium Scooter Convenience
- Price: ₹89,400 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 124cc (8.7PS power and 10Nm torque)
- Storage: 24.4 liters of underseat storage
- Key Features: Fully digital console with Bluetooth connectivity (Ride Connect Edition), USB charging port, All-LED lighting system (select variants).
Why Choose Access 125 Over Splendor Plus: For urban commuters, the Suzuki Access 125 provides the unparalleled convenience of an automatic transmission and ample underseat storage, making it ideal for carrying groceries or bags. At a price comparable to the top Splendor variant (slightly lower than the Xtec price provided), it offers a premium scooter experience with modern features, representing a strong and practical scooter alternative to the Splendor bike.
7. Honda Activa 110 H-Smart - India's Favourite Scooter with Smart Tech
- Price: ₹84,685 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 109.51cc (7.84PS power and 8.9Nm torque)
- Technology: H-Smart keyless system with anti-theft and smart find features
- Display: Digital console (Note: Original text mentioned 4.3-inch TFT with smartphone connectivity, but this is typically on higher-end scooters. The H-Smart primarily adds the keyless function and immobilizer. Reverted to "Digital console" for broader accuracy across H-Smart variants or kept if the specific ₹84,685 price point did correspond to a variant with connectivity, though less likely for a 110cc Activa. Correction made based on common Activa specs - H-Smart features are keyless and immobiliser, not usually a large TFT on the 110cc.)
- Storage: 18.4-liter underseat storage
Why Choose Activa 110 Over Splendor Plus: At a slightly lower price than the top Splendor Plus variant provided, the iconic Honda Activa in its H-Smart avatar offers keyless convenience, ease of automatic transmission, and renowned reliability. It's a prime Splendor alternative for tech-savvy urban commuters who prioritize hassle-free riding and practicality.
8. Revolt RV1 - The Affordable Electric Bike Alternative
- Price: ₹89,999 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Battery: Removable 2.2kWh battery pack
- Motor: 2.8kW electric motor
- Range: 100km (IDC - India Driving Cycle) on a single charge
- Top Speed: 70kmph
- Weight: 108kg (kerb)
Why Choose RV1 Over Splendor Plus: For a price very close to the top Splendor Plus variant provided, the Revolt RV1 offers zero tailpipe emissions and eliminates fuel costs entirely, resulting in significantly lower running expenses. Its removable battery addresses charging infrastructure challenges, making this electric bike a compelling, future-ready budget two-wheeler and a distinct Splendor alternative for environmentally conscious commuters with predictable daily routes.
9. Hero Destini 125 XTEC - Premium Family Scooter
- Price: ₹82,450 (ex-showroom Delhi, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 124.6cc (9.1PS power and 10.4Nm torque)
- Technology: i3S idle start-stop system
- Key Features: Digital-analog instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity (XTEC variant), mobile charging port, side stand indicator.
Why Choose Destini 125 Over Splendor Plus: Hero's own Destini 125 XTEC provides a step up in power and torque compared to the Splendor Plus, along with the ease of an automatic transmission. Positioned as a family scooter, it offers practical features like a charging port and i3S technology at a price lower than the Splendor Plus Xtec price provided, making it a practical and capable scooter alternative.
10. Bajaj Pulsar 125 - Sporty Entry-Level Bike
- Price: ₹87,352 (ex-showroom Delhi for Disc Variant, based on April 2025 data)
- Engine: 124.4cc DTS-i (11.8PS power and 10.8Nm torque)
- Features: Sporty split seat design, clip-on handlebars, optional front disc brake with CBS (Combi-Brake System).
- Styling: Signature Pulsar wolf-eye headlamp and muscular tank.
Why Choose Pulsar 125 Over Splendor Plus: For a price similar to the top Splendor Plus variant provided, the Bajaj Pulsar 125 brings the coveted sporty design and performance DNA of the Pulsar family into the entry-level segment. It offers a more powerful engine and dynamic styling, appealing to riders who want their budget bike to have a bit more personality and performance than a standard commuter. It's a popular Splendor competitor focusing on sportiness.
Comparison Table: Hero Splendor Plus Alternatives at a Glance (Based on April 2025 Data)
Model | Price (Ex-Delhi) | Engine/Motor | Key Advantage | Vehicle Type |
Hero Splendor Plus XTEC | ₹86,051 | 97.2cc Petrol | Established reliability | Motorcycle |
Hero HF Deluxe | ₹59,998 - ₹67,538 | 97.2cc Petrol | Most affordable alternative | Motorcycle |
Bajaj Platina 110 H-Gear | ₹65,546 - ₹73,365 | 115.45cc Petrol | Superior comfort & 5-speed | Motorcycle |
TVS Radeon | ₹62,670 - ₹74,966 | 109.7cc Petrol | Value features & classic styling | Motorcycle |
Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG | ₹90,272 | 125cc CNG + Petrol | Lowest running cost | CNG Motorcycle |
TVS Raider 125 | ₹93,500 | 124.8cc Petrol | Sporty performance & features | Motorcycle |
Suzuki Access 125 Disc | ₹89,400 | 124cc Petrol | Premium scooter convenience | Scooter |
Honda Activa 110 H-Smart | ₹84,685 | 109.51cc Petrol | Smart key technology & reliability | Scooter |
Revolt RV1 | ₹89,999 | Electric (2.8kW) | Zero emissions, low running cost | Electric Motorcycle |
Hero Destini 125 XTEC | ₹82,450 | 124.6cc Petrol | Family-friendly scooter features | Scooter |
Bajaj Pulsar 125 | ₹87,352 | 124.4cc DTS-i Petrol | Sporty styling & performance | Motorcycle |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Splendor Alternative
Moving beyond the familiar Hero Splendor Plus requires evaluating your specific needs. Consider these factors when choosing among budget bikes and scooters under ₹90,000:
- Daily Usage Pattern: Are your commutes short city rides (scooter convenience might be better) or longer distances (motorcycle comfort/mileage)?
- Running Cost Priority: Is minimizing fuel expense the absolute top priority (consider CNG or Electric)? Or is a balance of initial and running costs acceptable (standard petrol commuters)?
- Feature Requirements: Do you need USB charging, digital console, smart key technology, or higher performance?
- Family Usage: Will you regularly carry a pillion or need space for groceries (scooters or specific motorcycle models are better suited)?
- Riding Style: Do you prefer a relaxed commuter feel (Platina, HF Deluxe, Radeon) or something with a sportier edge (Raider, Pulsar)?
Why Budget Two-Wheeler Buyers Should Consider Alternatives to Hero Splendor Plus
The Hero Splendor Plus is a legendary budget bike in India, known for its dependability. However, its position at ₹86,051 for the top variant (based on the April 2025 price provided) means buyers have numerous compelling options that offer potentially better value for money depending on their priorities:
- Lower Price Point: Bikes like the Hero HF Deluxe and TVS Radeon offer very similar core functionality at a significantly lower initial cost.
- More Features for the Price: Vehicles like the TVS Radeon, Honda Activa H-Smart, or Bajaj Pulsar 125 pack more modern features, comfort, or performance into a similar price bracket as the Splendor Plus Xtec variant mentioned.
- Specialized Benefits: Options like the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG offer unmatched running costs, while the Revolt RV1 provides an entry into emission-free electric mobility – unique benefits the standard petrol Splendor cannot match.
- Scooter Convenience: For urban riders, automatic scooters like the Access 125 or Activa 110 provide ease of riding and practicality often preferred over motorcycles.
With robust competition, the under ₹90,000 two-wheeler segment offers unprecedented choice. Exploring these alternatives ensures you find a vehicle that truly meets your needs and budget, rather than defaulting to the market leader.