Hero Splendor Plus vs Honda Shine 100 DX: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India is attempting to renew its presence in the highly demanded commuter segment with the launch of the Shine 100 DX. Being in a highly competitive segment, this new motorcycle in the Japanese manufacturer’s lineup seems to be stepping on the toes of some of the best-sellers in the country, including the Hero Splendor Plus. While the latter has been the uncrowned king in the segment, the new entrant seems like a promising candidate. To help consumers choose between the two motorcycles, here’s a comparison:
Hero Splendor Plus vs Honda Shine 100 DX Overview
| Feature | Hero Splendor Plus | Honda Shine 100 DX |
|---|---|---|
| Ex-Showroom Price | ₹77,200 – ₹80,700 | ₹74,950 – (latest rate) |
| Engine Displacement | 97.2 cc, air-cooled, OHC | 98.98 cc, single-cylinder |
| Power Output | ~8.0 PS @ 8,000 rpm | ~7.4 PS @ 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | ~8.05 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | ~8.04 Nm @ 5,000 rpm |
| Mileage (Claimed) | ~70 km/l | ~65 km/l |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual | 4-speed manual |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog (XTEC variant offers digital and Bluetooth) | Fully digital LCD (includes info like mileage, trip, distance to empty) |
| Wheels & Braking | 18″ wheels, drum brakes (front and rear) | 17″ wheels, drum brakes, Combi-Braking System |
| Weight & Ergonomics | Heavier (~112 kg), conventional design | Lightweight, compact body |
| Customer Ratings | ~4.5/5 | ~4.0/5 |
| Key Strengths | Legacy, reliability, fuel efficiency | Modern features, digital feedback |
Design & Aesthetics
The Hero Splendor Plus has retained its timeless design—slim body proportions, classic chrome badging, and understated graphics. It now comes in refreshed paint options to stay relevant. The Honda Shine 100 DX presents a slightly more modern look with a bold fuel tank design, large headlamp housing, and a subtle chrome bezel. It comes in four stylish color variants that complement its contemporary feel.
Engine & Performance
Both motorcycles feature similar 100cc-class air-cooled engines paired with a 4-speed gearbox. The Splendor Plus generates approximately 8.0 PS and 8.05 Nm, while the Shine 100 DX delivers about 7.4 PS and 8.04 Nm. The Shine’s torque peaks earlier, which may offer smoother low-end performance. The Splendor’s higher power output contributes to a bit more responsive acceleration on open stretches.
Fuel Efficiency & Economy
Fuel efficiency is a core strength for both models. The Splendor Plus delivers an impressive claimed mileage of around 70 km/l, while the Shine 100 DX offers about 65 km/l. In real-world conditions, both return mileage figures between 50–60 km/l. The Splendor edge makes it ideal for riders focused on economy over style.
Features & Instrumentation
The Shine 100 DX takes an edge here with its all-new fully digital LCD instrument cluster, offering real-time mileage, distance-to-empty, and a clock—all at a lower price point than the Splendor. The Splendor Plus comes with a traditional analog speedometer; however, the XTEC variant brings in a digital console with Bluetooth connectivity, SMS alerts, mileage indicator, and LED Daytime Running Lights—enhancing its feature value.
Comfort, Wheels & Handling
Built on a classic tubular or diamond frame, the Splendor Plus has an upright riding posture and balanced ergonomics with its broader seat and tall handlebars. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels paired with drum brakes. The Shine 100 DX rides slightly lower, has a simpler seating layout, and uses 17-inch wheels, offering nimble handling with a shorter wheelbase—better suited to cramped urban riding.
Braking & Safety
Both motorcycles come with drum brakes front and rear. The Shine 100 DX adds a Combi-Braking System (CBS), which enhances safety by distributing braking force across both wheels. The Splendor Plus retains the conventional integrated braking setup. Neither offers disc brakes in base models, though ABS is rare in this category.
Price & Value Proposition
Priced between ₹77,200 and ₹80,700 for the Splendor and approximately ₹74,950 for the Shine 100 DX, both fall within the affordable commuter category. The Shine holds a slight price advantage, while the Splendor offers access to a larger service network and brand familiarity. The Shine, however, offers more modern features for the price.
Rider Preference Summary
Choose Hero Splendor Plus if you prioritize fuel efficiency, legacy, availability, and a tried-and-tested platform for urban commuting. The XTEC variant offers performance and connectivity for modern riders at a small premium. Choose Honda Shine 100 DX if you seek affordable modernity, digital instrumentation, and slightly smoother low-speed performance in daily city use.
Final Thoughts
The Hero Splendor Plus continues to dominate India’s commuter bike segment with its proven reliability, lightweight handling, and economy. Its legacy runs deep and still offers niche value to traditional commuters. The Honda Shine 100 DX, though a fresh entrant, has set new expectations with modern feature placement, good ergonomics, and attractive pricing. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you’re drawn to trusted heritage or modern utility—both represent quality options in India’s best-selling commuter space.
