KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Honda Shine 125 is on sale in two variants Drum (Rs 80,250) and Disc (Rs 84,250), making it a direct competitor to Hero Super Splendor and Bajaj CT125X
- The Shine 125 has few exclusive features, but it covers the basics, such as an electric start, a combined braking system, and alloy wheels
- The Honda Shine 125 is an old-school motorcycle with conventional elements like a halogen headlamp and all-analog instrument console
If there is one motorcycle that has helped Honda lay the stone as a maker of durable motorcycles, not just scooters, it is the Shine 125. This simple, frills-free, and frugal entry-level 125cc commuter from Honda has been the highest-selling 125cc motorcycle since its launch in the last two decades. While the Honda Shine 125 heavily depends on its excellent 125cc engine, which draws all the customers' interest, you should be aware of a few other features of the motorcycle. But before that, make sure to join our 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel, specifically curated for all the avid petrolheads with extensive coverage of the latest news and insights from the automotive space.
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Electric start
In addition to having the Kickstarter lever, the Honda Shine has an electric starter as standard in both variants. This electric starter switch gives added convenience to riders, especially beginners and elderly riders.
Competition CheckThe direct rivals of the Honda Shine 125 in the entry-level 125cc category, Hero Super Splendor, and Bajaj CT125X, also come with an electric starter as standard.
Side stand engine cut-off
The side stand engine cut-off feature is also offered as standard in both variants of Honda Shine, which is a good safety feature. It reminds riders to lift off the side stand, as the ignition will not turn on until the side stand is deployed.
Competition CheckThe Hero Super Splendor, like the Honda Shine 125, has the side stand engine cut-off feature, not the Bajaj CT125X.
Front disc brake
The Honda Shine 125 is available in two variantsdrum and Disc. As the name suggests, the latter variant has a 240mm disc brake at the front. Some two decades ago, the Honda Shine 125 was one of the first 125cc motorcycles to have a disc brake, and it continues to have one in its more premium variant.
Competition CheckWhile the Hero Super Splendor also has a front disc brake in its higher-spec variant, the Bajaj CT125X has one as standard for its sole on-sale variant.
Alloy wheels
The Honda Shine has black alloy wheels, which are standard in both variants. With the black theme for its alloy wheels and mechanical components under the skin, including the engine, the Honda Shine 125 looks more stylish and modern than before.
Competition CheckThe Hero Super Splendor and Bajaj CT125X also have black alloy wheels as standard.
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Combined braking system
While the Honda Shine 125 lacks a more sophisticated ABS, it does come with the essential Combined Braking System, which is a compulsory feature for all motorcycles with engines 125cc or smaller. The Combined Braking system gives additional slight feedback from the front brakes when the rear brake is applied.
Competition checkA combined braking system is a compulsory feature for all motorcycles with engines measuring 125cc or lower, and the Hero Super Splendor and Bajaj CT125X also get one.
Verdict
The simplicity and incredible reliability of the Shine have made it an evergreen and preferable motorcycle for masses who wish to have extra power for their entry-level commuters. However, the fact is, except for the basics, the Shine 125 feels severely underequipped regarding features. The rivals offer slightly more features, such as a part-digital instrument console in Super Splendor 125 and LED DRL in CT125X. However, the areas where the Honda Shine 125 shines out (pun intended) are the ease of riding, high mileage and long durability.
