Honda Shine (Shine 125): Complete 2025 Detailed Review

Honda Shine (Shine 125): Complete 2025 Detailed Review

1. Introduction

The Honda Shine 125 has been one of India’s best-selling commuter motorcycles for over a decade. Known for its refined engine, impressive mileage, and reliable build quality, the Shine has earned a strong reputation among daily commuters. In 2025, Honda continues to update the Shine to meet modern rider needs while maintaining its core strengths—comfort, durability, and fuel efficiency.

2. Engine, Performance, and Mileage

The Honda Shine is powered by a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine producing 10.74 PS of power and 11 Nm of torque. It features Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces friction.

The Shine comes with a 5-speed gearbox, offering smoother gear transitions and better fuel economy during long rides.

Mileage:

  • Real-world conditions: 55–60 km/l

  • Ideal riding conditions: Up to 65 km/l

This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient commuter bikes in the 125cc segment.

3. Design & Features

The Honda Shine sports a sleek and elegant design with a focus on practicality and comfort. It features:

  • Stylish headlamp with chrome surround

  • Modern body graphics

  • Long single-piece seat for better pillion comfort

  • Alloy wheels with tubeless tyres

Feature highlights:

  • Silent start with ACG motor for smooth ignition

  • Side-stand engine cut-off for safety

  • Integrated headlamp beam & passing switch

  • Semi-digital instrument cluster in select variants

The Shine’s design balances classic commuter styling with modern touches, making it appealing to a wide range of riders.

4. Chassis, Suspension & Braking

The Honda Shine is built on a diamond frame, which ensures stability and durability.

Suspension setup:

  • Front: Telescopic fork

  • Rear: Hydraulic shock absorbers

Braking options:

  • Drum brakes (130 mm) on base variants

  • Front disc brake (240 mm) on higher trims

The bike also offers CBS (Combi-Brake System) for improved braking safety, making it ideal for both new and experienced riders.

5. Variants & Pricing

The Honda Shine 125 is offered in two main variants:

  • Drum Brake Variant

  • Disc Brake Variant

Price Range (Ex-showroom, Delhi): ₹79,800 – ₹84,800 (approx.)

Color options include:

  • Black

  • Geny Grey Metallic

  • Athletic Blue Metallic

  • Rebel Red Metallic

  • Decent Blue Metallic

6. Riding Experience

The Honda Shine is praised for its refined engine and smooth ride quality. It handles well in city traffic, thanks to its light weight and responsive throttle. The upright seating position ensures comfort during long commutes, while the suspension absorbs most road imperfections with ease.

At cruising speeds of 60–70 km/h, the bike feels stable and vibration-free. However, at speeds above 80 km/h, minor vibrations may be felt, as expected in commuter-oriented motorcycles.

7. Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Excellent refinement and engine smoothness

  • Great fuel efficiency

  • Comfortable for long commutes

  • Low maintenance costs

  • Reliable Honda build quality

Cons:

  • Conservative styling compared to sportier 125cc bikes

  • Lacks advanced digital features

  • Not designed for high-speed performance

8. Competitor Comparison

Hero Super Splendor:

  • Shine offers more refinement and slightly better build quality

  • Super Splendor has better value pricing and similar fuel economy

Against TVS Raider 125:

  • Raider is sportier and feature-rich

  • Shine is simpler, more practical, and easier to maintain

Against Bajaj Pulsar 125:

  • Pulsar offers a sportier design and performance focus

  • Shine is better for relaxed, fuel-efficient commuting

9. Who Should Buy the Honda Shine 125?

The Honda Shine is perfect for:

  • Daily commuters who value refinement and comfort

  • First-time buyers looking for a reliable, easy-to-ride motorcycle

  • Family use, where durability and fuel savings matter most

  • Riders who prefer low maintenance and long-lasting performance

10. Maintenance & Service

Honda Shine is well-known for low maintenance costs and wide service availability. Basic maintenance schedule includes:

  • Engine oil change every 4,000 km

  • Brake and chain check every 500–800 km

  • Air filter cleaning at regular intervals

Honda’s extensive dealership network ensures easy access to parts and skilled service technicians.

11. Conclusion

The Honda Shine (Shine 125) remains one of the best commuter motorcycles in India. Its refined engine, strong fuel economy, and reliable build quality make it a smart choice for riders seeking a no-nonsense daily companion.

While it may not be the most flashy or feature-packed bike in its class. The Shine’s comfort, low running costs, and proven reliability ensure it remains a top choice in the 125cc commuter segment.