The Honda Shine 125 2025 edition, launched in India on March 6, 2025, continues to be a popular choice among commuters seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical motorcycle. Priced between ₹80,250 and ₹85,250 (ex-showroom Delhi), it competes with the Hero Super Splendor, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and TVS Radeon, offering a balance of comfort, performance, and low running costs.
Design and Ergonomics
The Shine 125 retains its classic and functional design with subtle modern touches. It features a sleek fuel tank, chrome accents, and a minimalist style. The 2025 model introduces updated graphics, a chrome muffler cover, and a longer single-piece seat for better comfort. Available in five color options, the bike measures 2007 mm in length, 737 mm in width, and 1116 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1285 mm and ground clearance of 162 mm. Weighing 110-112 kg, it is easy to handle in both city traffic and rural roads.
Instrument Cluster
The bike comes with a digital-analogue instrument console displaying speed, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, and warning indicators. The DX variant features a digital LCD console with additional information such as service due alerts, eco indicator, and side-stand warning. While functional, it lacks advanced connectivity features such as Bluetooth, unlike some rivals.
Engine and Performance
The Honda Shine 125 is powered by a 123.94cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that produces 10.59 bhp at 7500 rpm and 11 Nm torque at 6000 rpm. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and delivers a top speed of 95-100 km/h. Fuel efficiency is rated at 55 km/l by ARAI, with real-world mileage around 45-50 km/l. The 10.5-litre fuel tank allows for a range of 470-525 km per tank. The engine runs smoothly, offering light clutch operation and precise gear shifts, though it can feel strained above 80 km/h with noticeable vibrations.
Suspension and Brakes
The Shine 125 features a telescopic front fork and twin rear shock absorbers (adjustable on higher variants). It rides comfortably on city roads but can feel stiff with a pillion or heavy load. Braking is handled by 130 mm drum brakes on both wheels, with a 240 mm front disc optional on the disc variant, combined with a CBS system for balanced braking.
Key Features and Safety
The bike comes equipped with practical features such as:
- Combined Braking System (CBS)
- Side-stand engine inhibitor
- eSP technology for better fuel efficiency
- Halogen headlamp and basic indicators
It lacks premium features such as ABS, LED lighting, or traction control, keeping it affordable.
Pricing and Financing Options
The Honda Shine 125 is priced at ₹80,250 (Drum), ₹82,250 (Drum OBD2B), and ₹85,250 (Disc OBD2B) ex-showroom Delhi. On-road prices in Delhi range from ₹90,000 to ₹95,000. Honda offers low downpayment schemes, cashback offers, and no-cost EMI options for 6-12 months. Maintenance costs are low, around ₹2,500-3,500 annually, with a standard warranty of 3 years or 42,000 km, extendable to 10 years.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Owners appreciate the bike for its smooth engine, excellent fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and Honda’s extensive service network. Some drawbacks include limited power for highway riding, vibrations at higher speeds, basic styling, and lack of advanced features like LED lights or fully digital consoles.
Comparison With Competitors
The Shine 125 competes with:
- Hero Super Splendor: Similar power, slightly more modern features in the Xtec variant.
- Bajaj Pulsar 125: Sportier design and higher power but less refinement.
- TVS Radeon: More fuel-efficient and affordable but lower performance.
Conclusion
The Honda Shine 125 2025 remains a practical and dependable choice for daily commuting. Its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and low running costs make it suitable for urban and rural riders. While it lacks some modern features and sporty appeal, its affordability and Honda’s reliability make it a strong contender in the 125cc commuter segment.