Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the Honda SP 160, a powerful new contender in the Indian commuter bike segment, aiming to shake up the market long dominated by Hero Splendor.
With a 160cc engine, modern features, and a premium appeal, the SP 160 targets young riders looking for a blend of power, efficiency, and style. But does it have what it takes to challenge the undisputed leader, the Hero Splendor?
Let’s explore Honda’s strategy, the SP 160’s features, and how it stacks up against the competition.
India’s Two-Wheeler Market: The Battle for the Commuter Segment
The Indian two-wheeler market is a highly competitive space, where brands fight for dominance in the commuter segment. Hero MotoCorp’s Splendor has ruled this category for decades, thanks to its:
✔ Reliable performance
✔ Exceptional fuel efficiency
✔ Affordable pricing
✔ Massive service network
However, recent market trends suggest a shift in dynamics.
September 2024 Sales Figures (Vahan Retail Data):
Honda: 334,034 units
Hero: 271,465 units
For the first time in two years, Honda has outsold Hero in monthly retail sales, signaling a potential power shift in the market.
With the launch of the SP 160, Honda is making an aggressive play to expand its market share by targeting riders who want a premium yet practical commuter motorcycle.
Honda SP 160: A Premium Commuter with a Performance Edge
The Honda SP 160 isn’t just another commuter bike—it’s a strategic move to capture the mid-premium segment while maintaining affordability.
Key Features of the Honda SP 160:
Powerful 160cc Engine – More performance than traditional 100-125cc commuters
Modern Design – Sporty styling to attract younger buyers
Advanced Features – LED lighting, digital instrument cluster, and premium tech
Comfortable Ride – Longer wheelbase and superior suspension for smooth handling
Competitive Fuel Efficiency – Delivers impressive mileage despite a larger engine
With a starting price of ₹1.21 lakh (ex-showroom), the SP 160 offers a feature-rich alternative to conventional commuter motorcycles.
SP 160 vs. Hero Splendor: Can Honda Dethrone the King?
To understand Honda’s strategy, let’s compare the SP 160 with Hero’s Splendor in key areas.
Engine & Performance
| Bike | Engine | Power | Torque | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda SP 160 | 160cc, Air-Cooled | 13.46 PS @ 7500 rpm | 14.58 Nm | 110 kmph |
| Hero Splendor Plus | 97.2cc, Air-Cooled | 8.02 PS @ 8000 rpm | 8.05 Nm | 90 kmph |
Verdict: The SP 160 offers significantly better power and torque, making it a more exciting ride than the Splendor.
Fuel Efficiency
| Bike | Mileage (Claimed) |
|---|---|
| Honda SP 160 | 65 kmpl |
| Hero Splendor Plus | 70 kmpl |
Verdict: While the Splendor has an edge in fuel efficiency, the SP 160’s mileage is still commendable for a 160cc bike.
Pricing & Affordability
| Bike | Starting Price (Ex-Showroom, India) |
|---|---|
| Honda SP 160 | ₹1.21 lakh |
| Hero Splendor Plus | ₹77,176 |
Verdict: The SP 160 is more expensive, but it justifies the price with a bigger engine, modern tech, and premium features.
Target Audience
Honda SP 160: Young urban professionals who want a mix of performance and efficiency
Hero Splendor Plus: Budget-conscious commuters looking for affordability and reliability
Honda’s Market Strategy: How the SP 160 Aims to Win
Honda’s strategy with the SP 160 is multifaceted:
Expanding the Commuter Segment – Creating a new sub-segment within commuter bikes by offering a 160cc engine at an affordable price.
Targeting Younger Buyers – With a sportier design and modern features, the SP 160 aims to attract riders who want more than just basic commuting.
Balancing Performance & Efficiency – Offering better power than 100-125cc bikes while maintaining good fuel economy.
Competing on Brand Trust – Honda is leveraging its reputation for reliability, a key strength that has helped Hero dominate the commuter segment.
Market Challenges: Can Honda Overcome Hero’s Dominance?
Despite the SP 160’s strong entry, Honda faces several challenges:
Price Sensitivity – The ₹1.21 lakh price tag may deter budget-focused buyers.
Hero’s Brand Loyalty – The Splendor has decades of trust, making customer conversion difficult.
Fuel Efficiency Perception – The Splendor is widely known for its mileage, while the SP 160 needs to prove its efficiency.
Dealership & Service Network – Hero has a stronger rural presence, where a large chunk of commuter bike sales happen.
Honda must aggressively market the SP 160’s benefits and expand its reach to rural areas to compete effectively.
Hero’s Counterattack: How Splendor Plans to Defend Its Throne
Hero MotoCorp is not backing down. To counter the SP 160, Hero is:
✔ Refreshing the Splendor Lineup – Launching updated versions like the Splendor+ XTEC with digital features
✔ Expanding into Premium Segments – Introducing bikes like the Xtreme 160R to compete with Honda’s premium commuters
✔ Investing in Electric Mobility – Developing electric two-wheelers to future-proof its market position
✔ Strengthening Brand Loyalty – Reinforcing Splendor’s fuel efficiency and reliability through marketing campaigns
Hero’s aggressive response means the battle for the commuter segment will intensify in the coming years.
Future of the Indian Two-Wheeler Market
The SP 160 vs. Splendor rivalry is part of a larger shift in the Indian commuter bike segment.
Premiumization: More buyers are willing to pay extra for better features.
Technology Integration: Even commuter bikes now offer digital displays and LED lighting.
Electric Future: As EV adoption grows, manufacturers are focusing on alternative mobility solutions.
The next few years will be crucial in determining which brand dominates the evolving commuter segment.
Is the Honda SP 160 a Splendor Killer?
The Honda SP 160 is a serious competitor in the commuter market, offering:
✔ Stronger performance than the Splendor
✔ Modern features and sporty design
✔ Competitive fuel efficiency
✔ Honda’s brand trust and reliability
However, Hero’s Splendor remains the king in terms of price, fuel economy, and dealership reach.
For riders seeking an affordable performance commuter, the SP 160 is a fantastic option.
For those prioritizing budget-friendliness and mileage, the Splendor is still the leader.
Ultimately, the real winner is the Indian consumer, who now has more choices and better technology in the commuter bike segment.