Honda Shine is the latest entry into the basic 100cc commuter bike segment, designed to compete against bikes such as Hero HF Deluxe and Splendor +.
The new motorcycle takes design cues from its elder sibling, the Honda Shine 125. This should help minimize cannibalisation for brand and help increase market share.
Engine
Honda Shine has long been an icon of the 125cc commuter segment Bike since its introduction. As one of its key advantages was practicality and reliability. Even as more advanced commuters emerge on the market, buyers remain drawn to its simplicity and build quality. Now in its new avatar, its exterior has received cosmetic upgrades including multi-coloured grab rails and modern side cowl; however, its engine remains the same: A single cylinder air-cooled unit producing 10bhp at 7,500rpm with 11Nm torque available at 5,500rpm connected to a five speed gearbox.
On the road, the Shine feels lightweight and effortless to drive, easily handling city traffic as well as off-road terrain. We only found it disappointing that its first and second gears are so short; making overtaking difficult.
Honda Shine’s best-in-class features include tubeless tyres, 5-step adjustable suspension and front and rear disc brakes measuring 240mm each; Braking performance is enhanced through its Combi-Brake System (CBS). Furthermore, an all-black exhaust pipe with chrome finish, stylish visor and preload adjustable rear suspension offer a comfortable ride; its price of Rs 64,900 ex-showroom beats both Hero Splendor by approximately Rs 9,000 and Bajaj CT125X by over Rs 1,500 respectively.
Transmission
The Honda Shine 125 is equipped with a 125cc engine which offers the optimal balance between power and mileage, coupled with a four-speed manual transmission and featuring both front disc and rear drum brakes for improved ride comfort.
This bike features a diamond frame to absorb shocks and bumps more effectively, and further enhanced by hydraulic telescopic forks at the front and dual hydraulic coil springs at the rear.
With a ride height of 791mm, this bike is suitable for short and tall riders alike, featuring a well-cushioned seat suitable for accommodating pillion riders. Furthermore, its premium features such as clear lens turn indicators with chrome bits on either side add further appeal; further enhanced by chrome grab rails, Honda emblem and triangular tail light adornments.
Honda Shine 100 aims to become India’s go-to basic mass commuter bike. Competitors include Hero Splendor, Bajaj CT 100 and TVS Rally 125 in its segment. Equipped with a PGM-FI engine with enhanced Smart Power (eSP), the Shine 100 promises best-in-class fuel efficiency and performance at Rs 64,900 ex-showroom (drum brake variant costs Rs 78,414; disc-brake variant is priced at Rs 82,914) It comes in black, Axis Grey Metallic Athletic Blue Metallic and Rebel Red Metallic colors.
Design
Honda Shine is an understated commuter motorcycle with style. Its stylish aesthetics and fuel efficiency make it a stand-out option, while its engine can effortlessly navigate daily commutes as well as highway rides with ease.
Honda developed the Shine to be lightweight at 99 kg, making it easy and comfortable to ride. Their new diamond frame helps lower its centre of gravity. Plus, for added comfort it features telescopic forks at both ends, as well as twin shock absorbers in the rear for suspension duties and drum brakes with combi braking system for stopping.
The 786mm seat height makes this bike very accessible, even to six-footers who can sit comfortably on it. Furthermore, its generous seating space ensures both riders are well cushioned to experience reduced fatigue on long journeys.
The Honda Shine boasts an economical yet refined motor that is said to achieve fuel-efficiency of around 65 km per litre in city riding conditions – an outstanding number among its rivals and will help riders reduce maintenance costs over time. Honda CB Shine SP (its top selling 125cc motorcycle in India) reportedly also achieves similar mileage figures.
Safety
Honda CB Shine motorcycles make ideal commuter motorcycles and offer an enjoyable riding experience. Their lightweight diamond frame chassis weighs less and delivers superior handling, providing reliable urban road handling performance with its hydraulic telescopic front forks and dual rear suspension system – and optional front disc or drum brakes depending on personal preferences; Honda’s Combi Brake System (CBS) ensures superior stopping power.
Honda claims that their engine is very smooth with minimal vibration at higher revs and excellent fuel economy; Honda claims they can reach 63 km/l under city conditions. Furthermore, it features four-speed transmission allowing short first and second gear ratios which make tackling steep hills effortless.
Honda bikes feature front seat airbags to maximize occupant protection in case of an accident. Their Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body design effectively distributes crash energy across their frames to shield riders, making the 125cc Honda models one of the safest motorcycles.
Honda Shine 100 is their entry-level 100cc motorcycle offering in the entry level 100cc segment, competing against such rivals as Hero Splendor Plus, HF Deluxe and Bajaj Platina. At an extremely attractive price point – undercutting its rival by almost Rs 9,000! – The Honda Shine 100 makes an impactful statement of intent about Honda’s dedication to affordability.