Honda Shine 125cc Review

I am really in love with Honda’s cute starter segment bike, the Honda Shine. With 125cc engine, I feel that this bike does a very good job in giving you comfort, mileage and descent looks. Here’s a review of the various aspects of Honda Shine.

Styling: The looks of the bike is not sporty like the Glamour, the competitor from Hero Honda. But I feel that the bike has a different focus than the latter. The bike has been designed for the ‘office commuter’ in mind who needs plain and neat looks. If you are a college student, choose to buy the Honda CBF Stunner which has the same 125cc engine but a sporty and trendy outfit.

Performance: Many users have told me that the bike vibrates when it is taken above 60 km/hr. But one has to remember that this is a 125cc bike and not a 150cc one. But at low speeds, the acceleration is fantastic. The bike gives a mileage of more than 50kmpl for sure but it can give higher number if you maintain the right air pressure in the tires and get your bike serviced regularly.

The bike has very good handling, the ergonomic seats make it very comfortable for all day riding. Gearing is a noticeable feature in Shine. A owner of Honda Shine says – Gearing is very user friendly.  Frequent gear shifting is not required.  You can ride at quite low speeds without down shifting. For example:  if I am going in 4th gear and I approach a speed breaker, I have been able to slow down to around 20kmph, cross the speed breaker and then accelerate again all the while remaining in 4th gear. Wow! That makes city riding more comfortable.

The dashboard has the basic features built into it. Speedometer and ODO meter on the left and fuel gauge with three indicators (high beam, signal, and neutral) on the right. The indicator lights look cute in oval shape, don’t you think so? And they are bright enough so that it is visible even in broad day light.

Verdict: Honda Shine sets itself apart from other bikes in 125cc segment. You know why? It is a original Honda make. Honda is known for high quality of parts, durability and pride of ownership. Overall this is a good bike which I would recommend to my uncle, but not my friend!

Honda Shine 125cc Specifications:

Engine Type: 4 St, Air Cooled OHC Single Cylinder
Displacement: 124.6 cc
Net Power: 10.3 BHP @ 7500 rpm (7.68 KW)
Torque: 1.1 Kg-m @ 5500 rpm (10.9 Nm)
Rear Suspension: 3 Step Spring Loaded Hydraulic Shock Absorber
Transmission: Constant Mesh, 4 Speed Gear
Front Brake Type: 240mm Disc / 130mm Drum
Acceleration (0-60 kmph): 5.3 Sec.
Rear Tyre: 2.75 – 18 48P(6PR)