In the Indian two-wheeler market, commuter motorcycles dominate the streets — and for good reason. They offer great mileage, are easy to maintain, and come at a pocket-friendly price. One of the latest offerings in this category is the Honda Shine 100 DX, a smart and efficient upgrade in Honda’s legendary commuter segment. With Honda’s trusted engine technology and practical design, the Shine 100 DX aims to provide affordable mobility without compromising on performance or comfort.
Overview
The Honda Shine 100 DX builds on the success of the original Shine series, especially the Shine 125, which is one of the best-selling 125cc bikes in India. The DX variant offers the same Honda DNA but with a lighter and more fuel-efficient 100cc engine. It’s specifically designed for budget-conscious riders who need a reliable machine for daily commutes, rural rides, and city traffic.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Honda Shine 100 DX is a 98.98cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine that delivers a maximum power of around 7.28 PS at 7500 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. This engine is paired with a 4-speed gearbox and is tuned for smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. Honda has used its trusted Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology to reduce friction and improve combustion efficiency.
The performance might not be thrilling, but that’s not the goal of this bike. What it does excel at is low-end torque and a refined, vibration-free ride in city conditions. Even at lower gears, it offers smooth pickup, making it ideal for traffic and stop-and-go conditions.
Mileage and Efficiency
Mileage is where the Honda Shine 100 DX truly shines. Honda claims a mileage of up to 65-70 km/l, depending on riding style and road conditions. In real-world usage, users can expect around 60+ km/l, which is excellent for daily commuting, especially considering rising fuel prices.
The lightweight body and optimized engine tuning help in delivering this superb fuel efficiency. It’s a practical bike for those who ride 30–60 km a day and want to keep running costs as low as possible.
Design and Build
The design of the Shine 100 DX follows Honda’s typical commuter styling — simple, neat, and purposeful. The bike features a sleek fuel tank, comfortable single-piece seat, chrome-finished exhaust cover, and black alloy wheels, giving it a modern yet mature look. The headlamp is halogen with a basic cowl, offering sufficient visibility at night.
The overall ergonomics are focused on rider comfort. The seat height is low, making it easy to handle for shorter riders. The upright riding position ensures that even long commutes aren’t tiring. The bike weighs around 99 kg, making it one of the lightest in its class — perfect for maneuvering through congested traffic or narrow village roads.
Suspension, Braking, and Handling
Honda has equipped the Shine 100 DX with telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers tuned for Indian roads. It absorbs potholes and bumps decently, though high-speed cornering or aggressive riding is not its forte.
Braking is handled by drum brakes on both ends with CBS (Combi-Brake System) for safer and more balanced braking. While disc brakes are not offered (understandably at this price point), the drum setup is adequate for city speeds.
Handling is light and confidence-inspiring. Whether you’re a new rider or someone looking for a no-nonsense workhorse, the Shine 100 DX feels stable and easy to control.
Features
Though this is a budget bike, Honda hasn’t completely stripped it of features. Some highlights include:
- Side Stand Engine Cut-Off
- Engine Start/Stop Switch
- Tubeless Tyres
- Alloy Wheels
- Halogen Headlamp with Clear Lens Indicators
There’s no digital console — the instrument cluster is analog and minimalistic. But for a bike in this segment, that’s to be expected.
Pricing and Competition
As of mid-2025, the Honda Shine 100 DX is priced around ₹64,900 (ex-showroom), making it one of the most affordable 100cc bikes from a major manufacturer. It competes with the likes of the Hero HF Deluxe, Bajaj Platina 100, and TVS Sport.
Honda’s USP is its refined engine, build quality, and after-sales service, which gives it an edge over some competitors in terms of long-term ownership experience.
Final Verdict
The Honda Shine 100 DX is not flashy, fast, or feature-rich — and it doesn’t need to be. It’s built with a clear purpose: to provide reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation. For students, daily wage workers, rural riders, or anyone looking for a durable and easy-to-maintain commuter bike, this is an ideal choice.
Honda’s reputation for longevity and service adds more value to the package. If your priority is mileage, low maintenance, and a trustworthy ride, the Shine 100 DX is a bike worth considering.