Honda Shine 100

In terms of design, the Honda Shine 100 closely resembles its 125 cc sibling, the Shine 125, which has been popular for years. The overall styling is simple yet modern, featuring clean lines and minimalistic body graphics. The long seat is one of the highlights, designed to provide comfort for both the rider and pillion. The body graphics and decals are well-executed, giving the bike a premium look despite its budget-friendly pricing.

The headlight is a traditional bulb unit with no fancy DRLs, which may be seen as a cost-cutting measure. The twin-pod analog instrument console is basic but functional, displaying all essential information such as speed and fuel level. The five-spoke alloy wheels and the tube-type tires contribute to the bike’s aesthetic appeal, although the absence of a disc brake option limits its premium appeal.

The Honda Shine 100 is powered by a 98.98 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, delivering 7.28 bhp at 7500 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. While these figures may seem modest, they are in line with the bike’s intended use as a commuter vehicle. The engine is smooth and refined, offering predictable power delivery that makes it easy to handle in city traffic. The four-speed gearbox features an all-up shift pattern, which is precise and easy to operate, ensuring that the rider can navigate through traffic with ease.

On the road, the Shine 100 performs admirably for a commuter bike. It may not have the high-revving nature of performance-oriented bikes, but it offers smooth acceleration and decent torque for city commutes. The engine’s refinement is one of its strongest points, ensuring a vibration-free ride even at higher speeds. However, the bike may feel underpowered when riding with a pillion or on inclined roads.

The riding position of the Shine 100 is upright and neutral, offering a comfortable posture for daily commuting. The wide handlebar and forward-set footpegs ensure that riders won’t experience discomfort even during long rides. The suspension setup—telescopic forks at the front and twin shocks at the rear—is designed for comfort and performs well on city roads. The bike handles bumps and potholes easily, making it suitable for the rougher roads in India.

In terms of handling, the Shine 100 feels nimble and light. Its 99 kg kerb weight ensures that it is easy to maneuver in traffic, and the short wheelbase of 1245 mm provides agility while cornering or weaving through tight spaces. The drum brakes at both ends, coupled with CBS (Combined Braking System), provide adequate stopping power for a bike of this size, although the lack of a front disc option may be a drawback for some riders.

Comfort is a key consideration for any commuter motorcycle, and the Shine 100 excels in this area. The 786 mm seat height ensures that riders of varying heights can comfortably place their feet on the ground, and the 677 mm long seat offers plenty of space for both rider and pillion. The seat cushioning is plush, and the upright riding posture ensures that long commutes won’t cause fatigue.

The ergonomics of the bike are well-thought-out, with the controls within easy reach and the heel-and-toe gear shifter making gear changes easier, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The twin rear shock absorbers handle uneven surfaces with ease, contributing to a smooth and comfortable ride.

The Honda Shine 100 is equipped with basic but essential features for a commuter motorcycle. The twin-pod instrument cluster is analog, displaying speed, fuel level, and other necessary indicators. The lack of modern tech features like LED lighting or a digital instrument console is noticeable, but understandable given the price point.

The bike does, however, come with CBS, which enhances braking safety. The electric start is a convenient addition, although some riders may lament the absence of an engine kill switch.

Honda has not officially disclosed the fuel efficiency figures for the Shine 100, but the company claims that it offers best-in-segment mileage. Based on its specifications and market positioning, the Shine 100 is expected to deliver a mileage of around 65-70 kmpl, making it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in its segment. This impressive mileage, combined with its 9-liter fuel tank, provides a range of 580-630 kilometers on a full tank, making it an ideal choice for daily commuters.

With a starting price of ₹64,900 (ex-showroom), the Honda Shine 100 offers excellent value for money. It is competitively priced against its rivals, such as the Hero Splendor Plus and the Bajaj Platina 100, while offering Honda’s renowned engine refinement, build quality, and reliability. The bike may lack some premium features, but for a commuter in this price range, it ticks all the right boxes in terms of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency.

Honda’s extensive after-sales network in India ensures that Shine 100 owners will have easy access to maintenance and repairs. Honda is known for its affordable service costs and readily available spare parts, making ownership hassle-free. Additionally, Honda’s reputation for reliable and durable motorcycles adds peace of mind for prospective buyers.

The Honda Shine 100 competes directly with the Hero Splendor Plus, Hero HF Deluxe, and Bajaj Platina 100. While the Hero Splendor is the reigning king of the 100 cc segment, the Shine 100 offers similar refinement and performance at a competitive price. The Bajaj Platina 100, known for its excellent fuel efficiency, also poses stiff competition, but the Shine 100’s superior build quality and comfort give it an edge.

The Honda Shine 100 is a well-rounded and affordable commuter motorcycle that offers everything one would expect from a 100 cc bike. Its refined engine, comfortable ride, and excellent fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers. 

While it may lack some premium features like a disc brake or digital instrument console, the Shine 100 delivers where it matters most: performance, comfort, and reliability. For those in the market for a practical and economical commuter bike, the Honda Shine 100 is definitely worth considering