Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has kickstarted 2025 with a bang by unveiling two new offerings: the Honda Shine 100 DX and the Honda CB125 Hornet. While the Shine 100 DX caters to India’s massive commuter segment, the CB125 Hornet is aimed at young riders seeking style and performance in the 125cc segment.
This strategic dual launch allows Honda to strengthen its grip on both ends of the spectrum—economical commuting and sporty street biking. Let’s take a closer look at what these two new bikes have to offer.
🛵 Honda Shine 100 DX: Built for Bharat
The Shine 100 DX is an upgraded version of the Shine 100, which has already been a success in the rural and semi-urban markets. The new DX variant adds a touch of style and functionality, without compromising on Honda’s renowned reliability.
🔹 Engine and Performance
- Engine: 98.98cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power Output: 7.28 bhp @ 7500 rpm
- Torque: 8.05 Nm @ 5000 rpm
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
The Shine 100 DX retains the same smooth and fuel-efficient engine seen in the original model. The DX version is fine-tuned for better low-end torque, making it ideal for village and city commutes with frequent start-stop traffic.
🔹 Mileage and Efficiency
- Mileage: Up to 65-70 kmpl (claimed)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 9 liters
If there’s one thing Indian buyers want from a commuter bike, it’s excellent mileage—and Honda delivers just that. The DX’s engine is equipped with Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology, ensuring optimum combustion and reduced friction.
🔹 Design and Features
- Alloy wheels with tubeless tyres
- Stylish grab rail and chrome accents
- Long and comfortable single-piece seat
- Clear-lens indicators and halogen headlamp
The Shine 100 DX doesn’t look like a stripped-down bike anymore. With subtle aesthetic updates and better ergonomics, it is now more attractive to young rural riders.
🔹 Target Audience
- Daily commuters
- Rural and tier-2 city buyers
- Budget-conscious families
🏍️ Honda CB125 Hornet: Style Meets Substance
For younger riders who crave a dose of style and performance in the 125cc segment, Honda brings the all-new CB125 Hornet. Drawing design inspiration from its bigger sibling—the CB Hornet 160R—this bike blends aggressive styling with street practicality.
🔹 Engine and Performance
- Engine: 124.7cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power Output: 11.2 bhp @ 8500 rpm
- Torque: 10.4 Nm @ 6000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
The CB125 Hornet is not just about looks—it packs a punch in its category. The 5-speed transmission ensures smooth power delivery, making it suitable for both city rides and occasional highway trips.
🔹 Top Speed and Mileage
- Top Speed: Approx. 105 km/h
- Mileage: Around 55 kmpl (expected)
Honda claims an efficient combustion system and refined engine tuning to achieve a balance of power and mileage—a crucial combination for Indian youth.
🔹 Design and Styling
- LED headlamp and tail-lamp
- Digital instrument cluster with gear position indicator
- Muscular fuel tank with sharp extensions
- Split grab rails and sporty exhaust
The CB125 Hornet is definitely an eye-catcher. With sporty design lines, sharp bodywork, and all-LED lighting, it appeals to college students and young office-goers alike.
🔹 Suspension and Braking
- Telescopic front fork
- Monoshock rear suspension
- Front disc and rear drum brakes (with CBS)
Comfort, control, and safety have not been overlooked. The CB125 Hornet comes with a Combined Braking System (CBS) for added safety during sudden stops.
💰 Pricing and Availability
- Honda Shine 100 DX Price (Ex-showroom): ₹66,000 – ₹68,000 approx.
- Honda CB125 Hornet Price (Ex-showroom): ₹95,000 – ₹1,05,000 approx.
Both bikes will be available at Honda’s nationwide dealership network by the end of August 2025. Bookings have already begun at select showrooms.
⚖️ Shine 100 DX vs CB125 Hornet: Which One Should You Buy?
| Feature | Shine 100 DX | CB125 Hornet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 98.98cc | 124.7cc |
| Power Output | 7.28 bhp | 11.2 bhp |
| Mileage | 65–70 kmpl | 55 kmpl (est.) |
| Target Buyer | Budget commuters | Young urban riders |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹66K – ₹68K | ₹95K – ₹1.05L |
| Design | Functional and clean | Sporty and aggressive |
If your priority is fuel efficiency, affordability, and daily reliability, the Shine 100 DX is a clear winner. However, if you want performance, digital features, and style, the CB125 Hornet makes a compelling case.
📢 Final Thoughts
With the launch of the Shine 100 DX and CB125 Hornet, Honda is clearly diversifying its motorcycle portfolio in India. Whether you’re a rural commuter or a city-dwelling youngster, Honda now has something tailor-made for you in the 100–125cc segment.
The Shine 100 DX reinforces Honda’s dominance in the economy segment, while the CB125 Hornet is a fresh entry that can take on competitors like the TVS Raider, Bajaj Pulsar NS125, and Hero Xtreme 125R.
Expect both models to gain traction quickly, as they offer the perfect mix of brand trust, practicality, and value.
