Reference Auto

With arch rival Bajaj Auto revving up in the entry-level bikes segment, India’s largest motorcycles maker Hero Honda had recently said its market share was under pressure, and in a bid to stem a further slide, the two-wheeler giant has rolled out a new variant of its flagship Splendor model, christened the Splendor Pro, at an affordable price range of between (ex showroom Delhi) Rs 39,950 (spoke drum kick) and Rs 41,950 (spoke drum self).

Hero Honda saw its market share (in the 75-125 cc category) slide to 68.9% during April-August this financial year from 81.8% in the same period of the previous year.

Since the launch of Bajaj’s 100cc Discover, Hero Honda’s sales in the segment have taken a beating. But in August, the company had reported a 2.28 per cent pick up in sales to 4,24,617 from 4,15,137 in the same month of the previous year. This is the fourth time in a row that Hero Honda recorded more than four lakh sales in the span of a month.

The Splendor Pro is equipped with a power start and a new engine which is slightly more powerful. It is the new-gen APDV engine with advanced pro-series digital variable ignition system providing a superior power of 7.8 Ps that will propel the Splendor Pro. The bike also comes with alloy wheels, novel and bettered speedometer. It also offers enhanced fuel economy, refurbished headlight and a powerful battery.

Hero Honda Splendor Pro will be available immediately at more than 4,200 sales and service points across the country.

Hero Honda Motors senior vice-president (marketing and sales) Anil Dua said, “We have lined up a few more exciting launches in the run-up to the festive season.” Dua was upbeat on the bike’s performance and added it not only has a new design but is also attractively priced.

With its astute pricing, strong brand name and certain modifications, Hero Honda can hope to scale a new peak with the launch of the Hero Honda Splendor Pro.