In the world of Indian motorcycles, the 100cc commuter segment is less of a category and more of a kingdom, long ruled by the undisputed king, the Hero Splendor. For years, many have tried to storm this fortress, but few have made a dent. Then, Honda, a brand synonymous with trust and refinement, launched the Shine 100 – a bike with a legendary name and a clear mission. Today, the plot thickens.
Honda Shine 100: Specs at a Glance
Here’s a breakdown of what the reliable commuter offers, including the new features on the DX variant.
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 98.98 cc, 4 Stroke, SI, Single Cylinder |
| Maximum Power | 7.28 bhp @ 7500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 8.05 Nm @ 5000 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Gearbox |
| Starting Method | Kick and Self Start |
| Braking System | Combi Brake System (CBS) |
| Brakes | Front: 130mm Drum, Rear: 110mm Drum |
| Suspension | Front: Telescopic Fork Rear: Twin Hydraulic Shock Absorbers (5-step adjustable in DX) |
| Tyres | Front: 2.75-17, Rear: 3.00-17 (Tubeless on DX variant) |
| Instrument Cluster | Analogue (Standard) / Digital LCD (DX Variant) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 9 Litres (Standard) / 10 Litres (DX Variant) |
| Seat Height | 786 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 168 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 99 kg |
| Key Safety Features | Side-Stand Engine Cut-off, Combi Brake System (CBS) |
Just when we thought the battle lines were drawn, Honda has played a fresh card. Meet the new Honda Shine 100 DX. This isn’t just a new sticker job; it’s a thoughtful upgrade that shows Honda has been listening, watching, and is now ready to fight harder for the crown.
For those of us who spend our days navigating the hustle and bustle of city traffic, a motorcycle is more than just a machine; it’s a daily companion. We need it to be reliable, frugal, and, let’s be honest, we wouldn’t mind if it had a bit of style and some modern touches. That’s precisely where the new Shine 100 DX comes in.
So, what’s the big deal? Honda has taken the solid foundation of the original Shine 100 and sprinkled it with features that many of us have been asking for. The most significant talking point is the new all-digital LCD instrument cluster. Gone is the simple analogue dial, replaced by a modern screen showing real-time mileage and a distance-to-empty display. It’s a small change that makes a huge difference in your daily planning, helping you avoid that last-minute panic for a petrol pump.
But they didn’t stop there. The DX variant also flaunts subtle but welcome cosmetic tweaks. You get new, vibrant graphics, a classy chrome garnish on the headlamp, and a chrome muffler cover that adds a touch of premium feel. It’s a bike that looks more substantial, more… complete. Practicality gets a boost too, with the much-requested addition of tubeless tyres, giving you that crucial peace of mind against sudden punctures. They’ve even added 5-step adjustability to the rear suspension, allowing you to fine-tune your ride comfort.
At its heart, the Shine 100 DX retains the same smooth, reliable, and fuel-efficient 98.98cc engine. It’s a motor known for its refinement and hassle-free nature, and that’s a good thing. Honda hasn’t tried to fix what wasn’t broken. Instead, they’ve enhanced the overall package, making a strong contender even more appealing.
With these updates, Honda is sending a clear message. The Shine 100 is no longer just an alternative to the Splendor; it’s a direct challenger armed with modern features. It’s for the rider who values the trust and smooth engineering of a Honda but desires the practical, modern features that make everyday riding just that little bit better. While pricing for the new DX model is expected to be announced on August 1st, it’s clear that the battle for the heart of the Indian commuter just got a whole lot more interesting.