In the bustling streets of India, where two-wheelers reign supreme, Honda has once again raised the bar with the launch of the New Honda Shine.
This latest iteration of the beloved commuter motorcycle isn’t just an update; it’s a reimagining of what riders can expect from a 125cc bike.
Let’s delve into the intricacies of this game-changing vehicle that’s set to illuminate Indian roads with its brilliance.
Design Evolution: Subtle Sophistication
The New Honda Shine retains its classic commuter silhouette but introduces a host of refined design elements that elevate its visual appeal.
The front fascia now sports a more angular headlamp housing, complemented by a redesigned cowl that not only enhances aesthetics but also improves wind protection.
Chrome accents on the headlamp and side panels add a touch of premium flair, setting the Shine apart in its segment.
Moving along the side profile, the New Shine features sharper character lines that run from the front to the rear, creating a sense of motion even when stationary.
The fuel tank has been subtly resculpted, offering better ergonomics for the rider while maintaining its familiar shape.
New graphics and color options, including the eye-catching Pearl Precious White and Matte Axis Grey Metallic, allow riders to express their personal style.
The rear section sees significant updates with a redesigned taillight cluster that incorporates LED elements, enhancing both visibility and style.
The grab rail has been integrated more seamlessly into the overall design, contributing to the bike’s clean and uncluttered look.
Heart of the Matter: Performance Refined
At the core of the New Honda Shine lies its tried-and-tested 125cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine.
However, Honda’s engineers haven’t rested on their laurels. This powerplant has undergone significant refinement to meet the evolving needs of Indian riders.
Key engine specifications:
Displacement: 124.73cc
Maximum Power: 10.7 bhp @ 7500 rpm
Peak Torque: 11 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
The engine now features Honda’s latest eSP (Enhanced Smart Power) technology, which optimizes combustion efficiency and reduces frictional losses.
This results in improved fuel efficiency without compromising on performance. The inclusion of a counterbalancer shaft has further reduced vibrations, ensuring a smooth riding experience even at higher speeds.
One of the standout features of this engine is its refinement. The New Shine offers a level of smoothness that’s typically associated with higher displacement motorcycles.
This attention to NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels ensures that daily commutes are as comfortable as weekend leisure rides.
Riding Dynamics: Comfort Meets Confidence
The New Honda Shine is built on a robust diamond frame that provides an optimal balance between rigidity and flexibility. This translates to confident handling in various riding conditions, from congested city streets to open highways.
Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear.
The suspension setup has been fine-tuned to offer a plush ride over Indian road conditions without compromising on stability.
Whether you’re navigating pothole-ridden urban lanes or enjoying a smooth stretch of tarmac, the Shine remains composed and comfortable.
Braking performance has seen a significant upgrade with the inclusion of a front disc brake option across all variants.
The 240mm front disc, coupled with a 130mm rear drum brake, provides strong and predictable stopping power.
Honda has also equipped the Shine with its Combi-Brake System (CBS) as standard, ensuring balanced braking even for less experienced riders.
The 18-inch alloy wheels (optional on lower variants) are shod with tubeless tires, providing excellent grip and stability.
This wheel-tire combination not only enhances the bike’s handling characteristics but also contributes to its overall reliability and low maintenance.
Technology Integration: Smart Features for the Modern Commuter
While the New Honda Shine maintains its focus on being a no-nonsense commuter, it doesn’t shy away from incorporating modern features that enhance the riding experience:
Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: The bike features a semi-digital instrument panel that displays essential information such as speed, fuel level, and trip meters. The analog tachometer adds a touch of classic appeal while providing crucial engine speed information.
ACG Starter: This silent start system eliminates the typical gear meshing noise, offering a more refined starting experience.
Engine Start/Stop Switch: A convenient feature for urban riding, allowing riders to quickly turn off the engine at traffic lights to save fuel.
DC Headlamp: Ensures consistent illumination regardless of engine speed, enhancing safety during night rides.
Low Maintenance Seal Chain: Reduces the frequency of chain adjustments and lubrication, cutting down on maintenance time and costs.
Comfort and Ergonomics: All-Day Rideability
The New Honda Shine has been designed with long-term comfort as a priority. The riding position is upright and natural, reducing fatigue on extended journeys.
The well-padded seat has been contoured to provide support for both rider and pillion, with the seat height set at an accessible 791mm, accommodating riders of various heights.
Handlebar positioning and footpeg placement have been carefully considered to create a comfortable triangle that suits a wide range of riders.
The bike’s compact dimensions and manageable weight (114 kg kerb weight) make it easy to maneuver in tight urban spaces without sacrificing stability at higher speeds.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance: Easy on the Pocket
In the Indian context, fuel efficiency is paramount, and the New Honda Shine excels in this department.
Honda claims a mileage of 65 kmpl under test conditions, which translates to a real-world efficiency of around 55-60 kmpl. This, combined with the 10.5-liter fuel tank, gives the Shine an impressive range, reducing the frequency of fuel stops.
Maintenance costs are kept in check thanks to Honda’s extensive service network and the availability of affordable spare parts.
The company offers a standard warranty of 3 years, which can be extended up to 10 years, providing unparalleled peace of mind to buyers.
Safety Features: Prioritizing Rider Protection
Safety is a key consideration in the New Shine’s design. Standard safety features include:
Combi-Brake System (CBS)
High-performance tires for better grip
Bright DC headlamp for improved visibility
Engine kill switch
Side-stand indicator with engine inhibitor
Environmental Considerations
In line with increasing environmental consciousness, Honda has ensured that the New Shine meets all current BS6 emission norms.
The eSP technology not only enhances performance but also contributes to cleaner emissions. Honda has also focused on using more recyclable materials in the bike’s construction, reducing its overall environmental impact.
Market Positioning and Competition
The New Honda Shine enters a highly competitive 125cc segment, facing off against established rivals like the Hero Glamour, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and TVS Raider.
However, with its combination of refinement, features, and Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Shine makes a strong case for itself.
Priced competitively, starting at ₹78,687 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the New Shine offers excellent value for money, especially considering its build quality and low running costs.
New Honda Shine : The Gold Standard in Commuting
The New Honda Shine represents the culmination of Honda’s decades-long experience in crafting the perfect commuter motorcycle.
It successfully addresses the key concerns of Indian riders – reliability, comfort, efficiency, and low maintenance – while offering a premium experience that Honda is renowned for.
For daily commuters, small business owners, and families looking for a dependable two-wheeler, the New Shine presents a compelling case.
Its combination of refined performance, comfortable ride, advanced features, and Honda’s unparalleled after-sales support make it a standout choice in the 125cc segment.
As the Indian motorcycle market continues to evolve, with riders demanding more from their machines in terms of features and refinement, the New Honda Shine stands as a testament to Honda’s ability to listen to customer feedback and deliver a product that exceeds expectations.
Whether you’re navigating through congested city traffic, embarking on long highway journeys, or simply running daily errands, the New Honda Shine proves to be a trustworthy companion. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a shining example of how a commuter bike can offer a perfect blend of practicality, efficiency, and riding pleasure.
In a segment where compromises are often the norm, the New Honda Shine stands out by refusing to cut corners.
It offers a level of refinement and features that were once the domain of higher displacement motorcycles, all while maintaining the accessibility and efficiency that define the 125cc class.
As we look to the future of urban mobility in India, the New Honda Shine is poised to play a crucial role.
It represents a sustainable, efficient, and enjoyable solution to the transportation needs of millions of Indians. With the New Shine, Honda has not just updated a popular model; they’ve set a new benchmark for what riders can expect from a commuter motorcycle.
In conclusion, the New Honda Shine isn’t just living up to its name; it’s blazing a trail for others to follow.
It’s a testament to the fact that with thoughtful engineering and a deep understanding of rider needs, even a commuter motorcycle can offer an experience that’s truly shine-worthy.