Looking for a new commuter bike that balances fuel efficiency, reliability, performance, and affordability? The Honda Shine 125 has long been a favorite among Indian riders looking for dependable everyday transport. Building on its legendary reputation, the latest new model Shine 125 continues to impress with its refined engine, excellent mileage, and budget‑friendly pricing — making it a strong contender in the crowded 125 cc commuter segment. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a college student, or someone who wants an efficient ride without breaking the bank, the Shine delivers on multiple fronts.
In this comprehensive article, we dive into the specs, performance, mileage, features, and value proposition that make the Honda Shine a standout choice — especially for riders seeking high mileage and low running costs.
A Trusted Name in Indian Commuter Bikes
The Honda Shine 125 has carved a strong niche in India’s commuter bike market thanks to Honda’s longstanding reputation for reliability and low maintenance. With tens of lakhs of bikes sold over the years, Shine models have become synonymous with long‑lasting durability and everyday usability.
While the current model’s mileage figures may not literally hit 90 km/l, its fuel efficiency remains one of the best in the 125 cc class, consistently delivering figures that make it extremely cost‑effective for daily use. Real‑world riders often record impressive efficiency — often exceeding 55 km/l and sometimes higher depending on riding conditions and habits.
Engine and Performance: Balanced and Refined
At the heart of the Shine 125 is a 123.94 cc, single‑cylinder, air‑cooled engine that’s tuned for everyday practicality. The engine produces around 10.5 PS of power and 11 Nm of torque, delivering smooth, linear performance that’s particularly suited for city commuting and suburban rides.
Key performance highlights include:
- 5‑speed gearbox — for effortless gear transitions and improved top‑end cruising efficiency.
- Smooth throttle response — ideal for rush‑hour traffic and uneven urban roads.
- Low vibration and refined operation — a hallmark of Honda’s engine design, making longer rides more comfortable.
This engine and gearbox combination ensures the Shine is not just about mileage — it offers a calm, stress‑free ride whether you’re negotiating busy city traffic or taking quick weekend rides.
Mileage That Makes Sense for Commuters
Mileage is where the Shine 125 truly shines (no pun intended). Although the bike’s ARAI‑claimed figures are typically around 55–65 km per litre under certified testing conditions, these translate to excellent real‑world fuel economy for most riders.
Here’s a realistic breakdown of what to expect:
- City Riding: Roughly 50–60 km/l on mixed urban rides.
- Highway Cruising: Slightly higher efficiency — thanks to constant speed — often 60+ km/l.
- Average Combined: Around 55–60 km/l — which is excellent for a 125 cc motorcycle in this class.
With its 10.5‑litre fuel tank, even moderate riding can yield a range of over 500 km on a single tankful — a practical advantage if you commute daily without frequent refueling stops.
While some enthusiast riders online claim even higher mileage under optimal conditions, the conservative and reliable figures above are more realistic for most users.
Low Price and Great Value for Money
One of the biggest attractions of the new model Honda Shine is its competitive pricing — often starting from around ₹75,000 (lower variants) and going up depending on the configuration, region, and dealership pricing.
Actual on‑road prices in major Indian cities typically range between ₹88,000 to over ₹1,00,000 depending on taxes and registration charges.
This pricing makes the Shine one of the most budget‑friendly 125 cc options on the market, while still offering features and performance that rival — and sometimes surpass — competitors.
Additionally, financing options like EMI plans make it even more accessible for young riders and first‑time bike buyers, allowing monthly payments to fit comfortably into most budgets.
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Comfort, Handling, and Everyday Usability
Honda’s focus with the Shine has always been on practical usability, and this shows across many design aspects:
Comfortable Riding Ergonomics
- Upright seating posture — reduces rider strain during long commutes.
- Well‑cushioned seat — suitable for both rider and pillion.
- Light steering and manageable weight — easy to handle in city traffic.
Suspension and Braking
- Telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks — provide a balanced ride over uneven urban roads.
- Combi Braking System (CBS) — standard across variants for enhanced safety.
- Disc brake option — available on higher trims for additional stopping confidence.
These features contribute to a stable, controlled ride that’s ideal for both new riders and seasoned commuters.
Features That Matter for Daily Riders
While not a feature‑loaded flagship, the Shine’s simplicity is part of its appeal. It focuses on what counts for everyday use: reliability, comfort, efficiency, and ease of maintenance. The latest models also add practical touches like:
- Digital instrument cluster — shows essential information clearly.
- Side‑stand cut‑off — a safety feature that prevents the bike from starting when the stand is down.
- Quiet ACG starter — for smooth and noise‑free ignition.
- USB charging port (in select trims) — ideal for mobile devices.
These user‑friendly elements enhance the Shine’s practicality for daily commuting without overwhelming riders with unnecessary tech.
Comparing Shine With Competitors
In its segment, the Shine goes head‑to‑head with bikes like the Hero Super Splendor, Bajaj Pulsar 125, TVS Raider 125, and others. Each has its strengths, but the Shine stands out for its blend of smooth refinement, comfort, reliability, and low running costs.
- Hero Super Splendor Xtec — adds more tech features but may lack the same level of engine refinement.
- Bajaj Pulsar 125 — offers sportier looks and slightly more power but is less focused on fuel efficiency.
- TVS Raider 125 — has modern styling and features but can be pricier depending on variants.
The Shine remains a balanced choice for riders prioritizing economy, easy handling, and long‑term reliability.
Is the Shine 125 Right for You?
The Shine 125 appeals widely because it doesn’t try to be everything at once — it does commuter responsibilities very well.
Choose the Shine if you want:
✨ Excellent mileage and low running costs
✨ Reliable performance for daily use
✨ Comfortable riding position for city and short highway rides
✨ A budget‑friendly bike with broad service support
For urban riders, students, first‑time buyers, or budget‑minded commuters, the Honda Shine’s blend of practicality and proven performance makes it a compelling pick.
Conclusion: A Commuter Bike That Delivers Everyday Value
The Honda Shine’s new model remains a favourite among 125 cc commuter bikes in India thanks to its fuel efficiency, smooth engine, comfortable design, and affordable price. While its mileage may not literally be 90 km/l, its real‑world fuel economy is strong for its class — and its overall value makes every drop of fuel count.
With its easy handling, refined performance, and practical features, the Shine offers a no‑nonsense riding experience that caters perfectly to everyday needs. Whether you’re navigating crowded city roads or heading out for a weekend ride, this commuter favourite continues to stand tall — delivering performance and value where it matters most.