The Honda Shine 125 has been one of the most trusted commuter motorcycles in India, and the updated 2025 version continues to focus on practicality, fuel efficiency, and smooth performance. Launched on March 6, 2025, the bike is priced between ₹80,250 and ₹85,250 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Aimed at both urban and rural riders, it strikes a balance between reliability, comfort, and affordability.
Design and Build Quality
The Shine 125 carries forward its classic commuter styling with some modern touches. It features a sleek fuel tank, chrome muffler cover, and updated body graphics. The bike is available in five attractive colors including Rebel Red Metallic, Matte Axis Grey, Decent Blue Metallic, Black, and Geny Grey Metallic.
Its lightweight frame, weighing around 110–112 kg, makes it easy to ride in city traffic. With a ground clearance of 162 mm and a longer single-piece seat, the Shine 125 is designed for both comfort and practicality.
Instrument Console
Honda offers both analogue-digital and digital console options depending on the variant. The base Drum and Disc models come with a semi-digital cluster showing speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, and warning lights. The higher DX variant introduces a digital LCD display with eco indicator, service reminder, and side-stand alert. While it covers all essential information, it still lacks Bluetooth connectivity, which some rivals now offer.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Shine 125 lies a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that meets BS6 Phase 2 and OBD2B standards. It produces 10.59 bhp at 7500 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox.
The engine is smooth and refined, with Honda’s eSP technology improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Real-world mileage ranges between 45–50 km/l, while the ARAI-claimed figure stands at 55 km/l. With a 10.5-litre fuel tank, riders can expect a range of over 450 km on a full tank.
The bike performs best in city conditions, with easy gear shifts and a light clutch. On highways, it can touch 95–100 km/h, though vibrations are noticeable beyond 80 km/h.
Ride Comfort and Handling
The Shine 125 uses telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, tuned for Indian roads. The suspension is comfortable for daily commuting, though it can feel slightly stiff when riding with a pillion on rough terrain. The upright seating position and longer seat provide good ergonomics for long rides. Its 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres ensure stability and grip on varied road conditions.
Features and Safety
Honda has equipped the Shine 125 with practical features including:
- Combined Braking System with equalizer
- Side-stand engine cut-off
- Silent start with ACG motor
- Fuel-injection with eSP technology
While the bike offers good safety basics, the absence of ABS and LED lighting feels like a missed opportunity in 2025, especially when rivals are offering more advanced equipment.
Pricing and Variants
The Shine 125 is available in three variants: Drum, Drum OBD2B, and Disc OBD2B. Prices range from ₹80,250 to ₹85,250 (ex-showroom, Delhi). On-road pricing in Delhi is between ₹90,000 and ₹95,000. Honda also provides attractive finance options such as low down payment schemes, no-cost EMI, and cashback offers. A standard 3-year warranty (extendable to 10 years) adds to the bike’s value proposition.
Competition
The Honda Shine 125 faces strong competition in the 125cc commuter segment. The Hero Super Splendor offers modern features like LED headlamp and digital console at a similar price. The Bajaj Pulsar 125 provides sportier styling and more power, while the TVS Radeon is more affordable and fuel efficient. Despite these options, the Shine 125 continues to stand out with its refinement, smooth engine, and Honda’s trusted after-sales support.
Final Verdict
The Honda Shine 125 2025 is a reliable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable commuter motorcycle. It may not have the flashiest design or advanced features, but it excels in practicality, low maintenance, and everyday usability. For riders looking for a trusted and refined 125cc bike under ₹1 lakh, the Shine 125 remains a dependable choice.