Honda Shine 100 First Ride Review: Hero Splendor Rival

The Honda Shine 100’s engine is a smooth 100cc one. 

• Underpinnings on it include an inverted fork along with dual shocks. 
• The Shine 100 looks similar to the Shine 125
• It’s made to overtake the Splendor as India’s best-selling bike. 

Honda is entering a market with the Shine 100 that it has shunned since its inception in India over a decade ago: the 100cc sector. Honda already has a number of economical 110cc motorcycles on the market, but the price targets for these budget motorbikes are so low that Honda claims it had to create a new engine and frame in order to price this new bike as aggressively as possible. 

Honda Shine 100: Design & Features

Despite its low price, Honda has managed to keep the premium image associated with the brand. Honda has faithfully recreated the successful formula of the Shine 125 with the Shine 100. The paint quality, livery, and even the blacked-out areas add to its visual attractiveness.

As a basic commuter, the Honda Shine 100 has halogen lights and an analogue dual-pod instrument console with basic readouts such as speed, fuel level, and warning lights. It also has a side stand engine cut-off, an automatic choke system, and an outside fuel pump for easier maintenance.

Honda products are known for their high build quality, however this does not appear to be the case with the Shine 100. The side panels, as well as the back panels, including the tail light, are quite flimsy and move about a lot. It is hoped that Honda will address these issues in following production batches. 

Honda Shine 100: Engine & Specs

The Honda Shine 100 is powered by an all-new single-cylinder engine that is BS6.2 (OBD2) certified. The motor produces 7.4PS and 8.05Nm and is coupled to a four-speed gearbox.

The 98.98cc single-cylinder engine is a completely unique design developed exclusively for the Indian market. So, despite producing only 7.61PS and 8.05Nm, it does a good job. Now, how it compares to the Splendour is a different story, but the refinement levels are what we've come to expect from Honda. 

There are no vibrations at normal speeds, and even when you exceed 60kmph, the engine does not feel strained or unduly vibratory. Yes, there is a mild tingle on the seat and footpegs, but it is manageable.

As with most basic commuters, the first and second gears are extremely short, so the Shine 100 will be able to climb steep slopes with plenty of load, but try doing so in 4th or even 3rd gear and the bike will struggle to the point of eventual surrender. 

Honda Shine 100: Chassis

The Shine 100 has a diamond frame and a traditional telescopic fork with twin shock absorbers. CBS's braking is handled by drum units on both ends. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in MRF rubber.

The Honda Shine 100's engine and handling are both highly promising, but it lacks good brakes. Yes, it has drum brakes, which are not expected from a bike in this price range, but the Shine's brakes lack feedback at the lever and feel very dull. As a result, depending on them to consistently slow you down in an emergency is difficult.

Honda Shine 100: Dimensions

The Honda Shine 100 has all the proper components to be a fantastic handler, with a kerb weight of 99kg, 17-inch wheels, and an approachable seat height of 786mm. The Shine 100 handles everything with ease, whether it's manoeuvring through the parking lot or navigating through traffic. 

Honda Shine 100: Variants & Price

The Honda Shine 100 is only available in one model and has an introductory price of Rs 64,900 (ex-showroom Mumbai). It is available in five various colour schemes, with black as the basis and geometric stripes in blue, green, gold, red, and grey. The Honda Shine 100 competes in India with other 100cc commuters such as the Hero Splendour Plus, Bajaj Platina 100, Hero HF 100, and HF Deluxe. The Shine 100 competes with the TVS Scooty Pep Plus, Hero Electric NYX, Honda Dio, and Okinawa Ridge in terms of price.

The Honda Shine is one of the most economical motorcycles in this market, priced at Rs 64,500 (ex-showroom Mumbai). However, along with affordability, one of the factors influencing purchase decisions is fuel efficiency. Unfortunately, Honda has not provided the claimed fuel efficiency number, only stating that this is the most efficient bike in the segment. 

Verdict

The real question is whether it can dethrone Hero Splendour Plus. It's too early to tell right now because one don't know the miles. However, it has the potential to be a threat. However, it will require customer acceptance to be successful, which will be extremely difficult in a market dominated by the Splendour for three decades.