In the fast-paced lanes of Indian traffic, where every rupee spent on petrol matters and comfort is non-negotiable, one name has consistently echoed through showrooms for nearly two decades: the Honda Shine 125.
As we step into 2026, the 125cc segment is more crowded than ever. With flashy contenders like the TVS Raider and the sporty Bajaj Pulsar 125 vying for attention, you might wonder—is the Honda Shine 125 still relevant? Does it still offer the best value for an Indian middle-class family or a daily office goer?
In this deep-dive review, we break down everything from mileage and performance to the “silent” features that make this bike a legend on Indian roads.
1. Design and First Impressions: Classic Over Flashy
The 2026 Honda Shine 125 doesn’t try to be a sportbike. While rivals are moving toward aggressive LED headlamps and sharp tank shrouds, the Shine stays true to its “mature and executive” roots.
- The Look: It features a clean, conservative design with premium chrome finishes on the carburetor cover and exhaust shield.
- Build Quality: One thing you notice immediately is the “Honda Fit.” The panels feel solid, the paint has a deep luster, and there are no rattling sounds even when you’re idling at a busy signal in Mumbai or Delhi.
- Ergonomics: The seat is one of the longest in its class. Whether you’re riding solo to the office or carrying a family member to the market, the flat, well-cushioned seat ensures no one is complaining about backaches.
2. The Heart of the Matter: Engine & Performance
The real magic of the Shine 125 lies in its 123.94cc, single-cylinder, BS6 Phase 2B compliant engine.
Silent Start with ACG
Honda’s eSP (Enhanced Smart Power) technology includes the ACG starter motor. In simple terms? The bike starts without that traditional “grrr-grrr” cranking noise. It’s a “silent start” that feels incredibly premium every time you thumb the starter.
City vs. Highway Manners
- City Commute: With 10.74 PS of power and 11 Nm of torque, the Shine is a champion of the “low-end grunt.” You can crawl in 3rd or 4th gear at low speeds without the engine knocking. The light clutch is a lifesaver in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
- Highway Stability: Unlike the older 4-speed models, the current 5-speed gearbox allows the engine to breathe. You can comfortably cruise at 65–70 kmph without feeling excessive vibrations through the footpegs or handlebars.
3. Real-World Mileage: “Kitna Deti Hai?”
For an Indian buyer, this is the million-dollar question. Honda claims a mileage of up to 65 kmpl under ideal conditions.
In real-world Indian conditions—combining city traffic, signals, and occasional open stretches—you can realistically expect:
- City: 55–58 kmpl
- Highway: 60–62 kmpl
With a 10.5-liter fuel tank, you’re looking at a massive riding range of over 550 km on a single fill. That’s fewer trips to the petrol pump and more savings in your pocket.
4. Features: Practicality Over Tech
Honda has deliberately kept the Shine 125 simple. You won’t find a Bluetooth-connected TFT screen or turn-by-turn navigation here. Instead, you get:
- Analogue-Digital Console: Simple, easy-to-read, and durable.
- Side Stand Engine Cut-off: A vital safety feature that prevents the bike from starting if the stand is down.
- External Fuel Pump: Located outside the tank for easier maintenance.
- DC Headlamp: Ensures the light intensity remains constant even at low speeds—a huge plus for night riding in areas with poor street lighting.
5. Ride Quality and Handling
The Shine 125 uses a Diamond Frame and a suspension setup tuned specifically for Indian potholes.
- Front: Telescopic Forks
- Rear: 5-step adjustable hydraulic shocks
The bike glides over minor undulations. Even with a pillion rider, the suspension doesn’t bottom out easily. The 18-inch alloy wheels provide great stability, though some riders might find the 80/100 rear tyre a bit slim compared to the beefier tyres on the TVS Raider.
Braking
The Combi-Brake System (CBS) is standard. We highly recommend the Disc Brake variant (240mm front disc) for better stopping power, especially during the monsoon season.
6. Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Ultra-refined, vibration-free engine | Design feels dated to younger riders |
| Exceptional resale value in India | Lacks LED lighting and digital tech |
| Comfortable for long daily commutes | Slim rear tyre lacks “big bike” look |
| Massive service network & cheap parts | Pricing is slightly higher than 110cc rivals |
7. Price in India (2026)
As of early 2026, the Honda Shine 125 is priced competitively:
- Drum Variant: ₹81,000 – ₹83,000 (Ex-Showroom)
- Disc Variant: ₹85,000 – ₹88,000 (Ex-Showroom)
Note: On-road prices vary by state due to RTO charges and insurance.
Also read: Why You Can’t Ride the Beast: Unpacking the Kawasaki Ninja H2R’s “Illegal” Status on Indian Roads
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Honda Shine 125?
The Honda Shine 125 is not for the rider looking to win drag races or show off the latest gadgets.
It is for the pragmatic Indian. It is for the person who wants a bike that starts on the first touch every morning, costs very little to maintain, and will still be running perfectly ten years from now. It remains the gold standard for reliability and refinement.