Honda Shine 100: You know that feeling when you discover something good that everyone else seems to have missed? That’s exactly how I felt when I first rode the Honda Shine 100 six months ago. Priced at ₹68,767 for the 2025 model, this unassuming commuter motorcycle has been steadily chipping away at Hero MotoCorp’s dominance in the 100cc segment—and frankly, it deserves every bit of success it’s getting.
The Underdog That’s Actually Winning
When Honda launched the Shine 100 in March 2023, industry experts were skeptical. The 100cc commuter space was Hero’s backyard, dominated by the legendary Splendor Plus for decades. But here’s the thing about Honda—they rarely enter a segment without having done their homework thoroughly. Since its launch, the Shine 100 has been able to capture a larger market share in the entry-level commuter segment, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where practical transportation matters more than flashy features.
The 2025 version launched in March brings subtle but meaningful updates. It’s now OBD2B compliant, meeting the latest emission norms while maintaining the same honest, straightforward character that made the original so appealing. The price increase of ₹1,867 over the previous model is reasonable, considering the regulatory compliance and updated graphics.
Design: Simple, Honest, and Effective
The Shine 100 doesn’t try to be something it’s not. With its simple cowl design and twin-pod instrument cluster, it looks exactly like what it is—a no-nonsense commuter built for daily use. The refreshed graphics on the headlamp cowl, fuel tank, and side fairing give it a slightly more contemporary look, though Honda has wisely avoided any dramatic design changes.
Available in five dual-tone color schemes—Black with Red, Blue, Orange, Green, and Grey—the bike offers enough variety without overwhelming buyers with choices. The side fairing now displays ‘Shine 100’ rather than just ‘Shine,’ which helps differentiate it from its 125cc sibling. It’s a small touch, but it shows attention to detail.
At 99kg, the bike feels light and manageable, especially for new riders or those who need to maneuver through tight urban spaces. The 168mm ground clearance handles Indian road conditions admirably, while the 9-liter fuel tank provides adequate range for daily commuting.
Performance: The Heart of the Matter
The 98.98cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine is where the Shine 100 truly shines. Producing 7.28bhp at 7,500rpm and 8.04Nm of torque at 5,000rpm, it delivers exactly the kind of linear, predictable power that commuters need. The engine is paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox that shifts smoothly and precisely.
What impresses me most is how refined this engine feels for a 100cc unit. There’s minimal vibration at city speeds, and the power delivery is smooth enough to make riding in traffic genuinely pleasant. The upright riding position, comfortable seat, and well-positioned footpegs ensure that even longer rides don’t become uncomfortable.
The bike’s soft suspension setup does an excellent job of absorbing bumps and potholes—a crucial ability on Indian roads. While this setup might not appeal to those seeking sporty handling, it’s perfect for its intended purpose.
Fuel Economy: The Real Game Changer
Here’s where the Shine 100 truly justifies its existence. With an ARAI-claimed mileage of 55kmpl and real-world figures often exceeding 65kmpl, this bike sips fuel like a scooter while providing the convenience of gears. I’ve consistently achieved 68-70kmpl during my test runs, which is genuinely impressive for a motorcycle in this segment.
For daily commuters covering 30-40km per day, this translates to significant savings over time. The math is simple: better fuel efficiency means more money in your pocket every month.
Features: Practical, Not Flashy
The Shine 100 comes with essential features that matter in real-world use. The Combined Braking System (CBS) enhances safety, while the side-stand sensor prevents accidents. The halogen headlamp provides adequate illumination, and the 17-inch alloy wheels add a touch of visual appeal while being practical.
Perhaps most importantly, the bike includes both kick-start and electric start options. In a segment where reliability is paramount, having a backup starting method provides peace of mind that many riders appreciate.
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The Competitive Landscape
At ₹68,767, the Shine 100 undercuts its main rival, the Hero Splendor Plus, by around ₹8,000. This price difference, combined with Honda’s reputation for reliability and better refinement, makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The bike’s success has forced competitors to rethink their strategies. Hero MotoCorp has responded with updates to the Splendor Plus, while other manufacturers are closely watching this space.
Honda Shine 100 The Final Word: Value Redefined
The Honda Shine 100 succeeds because it understands its audience perfectly. It’s not trying to be the most powerful or the most feature-loaded bike in its segment. Instead, it focuses on being reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable—exactly what millions of Indian commuters need.
For first-time buyers, students, or anyone seeking dependable daily transportation, the Shine 100 represents excellent value. It’s proof that sometimes the best products are the ones that simply do their job well, without unnecessary complications or pretensions.