The Hindu Business Line : More glam in new Shine

The Shine had all the necessary performance attributes that identified it as a classic Honda bike, but it lacked a few cosmetic features and some of the upmarket looks. The new version has addressed these.

THE NEW HONDA SHINE

Just a year after it was launched and after a not-so-enthusiastic response to its first mass market bike, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has re-launched the Shine with refreshed looks and some new features that should have been offered when the 125cc bike was first introduced.

The Honda Shine was unveiled and launched last March to mark HMSI's (Honda's fully-owned subsidiary) entry into the mass market, where Bajaj's Discover was clearly emerging the leader.

The Shine had all the necessary performance attributes that identified it as a classic Honda bike, but it lacked a few cosmetic features and some of the upmarket looks that buyers in this segment expect and which the competition was offering for a similar price.

Equipped with a host of advanced technologies such as Multi Mapping CDI, a tumble flow combustion chamber, long intake pipe and connecting tube, CV Carburettor, 2-Way Air Jacket and a pulse exhaust system, the 125cc `Optimax' engine, which was especially developed for the Indian market by Honda R&D, delivers a class leading peak power of 10.3 bhp. This 125cc engine enables the Shine deliver a good balance between pickup and fuel efficiency.

Improved looks

In addition to the couple of new body colours, the new Shine variant features new stickering and body graphics on the bike's fuel tank, fairing and side panels.

Matt-black alloy wheels replace the earlier version's steel-spoked wheels.

All of these features are meant to give the bike a more international feel and look. Paint finish continues to be top notch.

The coated steel tube rear grab rail in the old version of the Shine has now been replaced with an aluminium alloy grab rail. Some of the changes seem to have been influenced by feedback from current owners of the Shine.

Better suspension

To improve ride quality, Honda has also changed the bike's rear suspension by incorporating thicker gauge springs, which now come in a cool-silver colour.

The Tuff-Up tube and tyre combination that was being offered in the older version has been carried forward and continues to be available in the new variant.

Disc brakes for the front wheel also continue to be offered as an option in the lower trim variant of the new-look Shine.

The bike comes with a two-year standard warranty and buyers can opt to go in for an additional three years warranty. Prices for the new Honda Shine start from about Rs 40,500 (ex-showroom).

Shine users have appreciated its good build quality and reliability, now the new variant's looks and features could attract younger buyers as well.

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