Hero recently updated the Super Splendor with the Xtec treatment. It now packs more features than ever and rivals the TVS Raider SmartXonnect and a couple of other names. In this story, we’ll fair the Hero and TVS offerings on paper and see which one offers more.
Design
The Hero Super Splendor Xtec features a thorough commuter build. It gets an LED headlight with an LED DRL in between. Even the fuel tank design, single-piece seat, and the chrome bits appear simple and add to the overall appeal. On the other hand, the Raider looks a little more youthful and futuristic, thanks to its distinct headlight. It, too, features LED DRL, but benefits from a split-seat setup, and its fuel tank also gets creases. Compared to the Super Splendor Xtec, the Raider SmartXonnect gets fewer chrome elements.
Engine
Hero has powered the bike by a 124.7cc single-cylinder motor developing 10.72bhp and 10.6Nm. It’s mated to a five-speed gearbox. On the other hand, the Raider gets a 124.8cc mill with the output rated at 11.2bhp and 11.2Nm. It’s also linked to a five-speed gearbox. We expect the Raider to be quicker on paper.
Features
With the Xtec trim, the Super Splendor is now equipped with LED DRL, Bluetooth connectivity for SMS and call alerts, a fully digital instrument console with various readouts like the speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel level indicator, and a real-time mileage indicator too. Meanwhile, the Raider SmartXonnect also gets LED illumination, digital instrumentation, and smartphone connectivity for navigation, voice assistance, incoming calls, and message notifications.
Hardware
The Splendor Xtec rides on telescopic front forks and five-step adjustable twin rear shocks. Its braking hardware comprises a 240mm front disc or a 130mm front drum, and a 130mm rear drum. The latter is mounted on 18-inch alloys wrapped in 80/100 front and a 90/90 rear tyre. On the other hand, the TVS Raider SmartXonnect gets telescopic front forks with a five-step adjustable gear-charged monoshock. Its braking setup is similar to that of the Splendor Xtec. Compared to the Splendor Xtec, the Raider gets 17-inch alloys with 80/100 front and 100/90 rear tyres. Thanks to the smaller alloy size, the Raider should also be a little more agile.
Price
The asking price for the Hero Super Splendor Xtec drum variant is set at Rs 83,368, while the disc model costs Rs. 87,268 (both prices are ex-showroom, Delhi). In comparison, the TVS Raider SmartXonnect retails at Rs. 1,00,820 (ex-showroom Delhi). While the Raider is more expensive than the Hero offering, it also offers more features and slightly more power.
