In India’s competitive commuter bike segment, two names have long stood as favourites – Honda Shine 100 and Hero Splendor Plus. With rising fuel prices and growing urban traffic, these motorcycles are seen as practical choices for daily office-goers, college students, and delivery riders. For 2025, both manufacturers have made subtle upgrades to maintain their stronghold in this high-volume category. Here’s a detailed comparison to see which one suits Indian commuters better.
Engine and Performance
The Honda Shine 100 comes with a 98.98cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that delivers 7.28 bhp and 8.05 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 4-speed gearbox and designed to offer smooth and linear acceleration, ideal for stop-and-go city traffic.
The Hero Splendor Plus, on the other hand, uses a slightly larger 97.2cc engine producing 7.91 bhp and 8.05 Nm torque. The bike also features Hero’s i3S (Idle Stop-Start System), which shuts off the engine at traffic lights and helps save fuel, a handy feature in congested urban areas.
In real-world use, both bikes are almost neck-to-neck in terms of city performance. However, Splendor’s long-standing engine refinement gives it a slight edge in responsiveness.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to mileage, both bikes are strong contenders. The Shine 100 delivers an impressive around 65-70 kmpl, while the Splendor Plus also offers a similar range of approximately 65-70 kmpl in mixed riding conditions. However, in long-term ownership, Hero’s i3S technology may give it a slight advantage in reducing unnecessary fuel burn.
Ride Comfort and Suspension
Both motorcycles use telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear, tuned for comfort on patchy Indian roads. The Shine 100 has a slightly longer wheelbase (1245 mm) compared to the Splendor Plus (1236 mm), which helps in better stability, especially with a pillion.
The seat on both bikes is designed for daily comfort, but some users may find the Shine’s seat slightly narrower. Splendor, being in the market for decades, has a well-tested comfort profile for both short and long commutes.
Features and Technology
The Hero Splendor Plus offers a semi-digital console, alloy wheels, and the i3S system as key highlights. It also comes with a self-start option, which has now become a basic expectation.
The Honda Shine 100, being positioned as an ultra-affordable model, keeps things minimal. It has a basic analogue cluster, alloy wheels, and electric start. No digital elements are present, which might disappoint tech-savvy riders.
Design and Styling
The Hero Splendor Plus retains its iconic boxy design with classic commuter lines, available in multiple colour options. Honda Shine 100, meanwhile, leans toward a simpler aesthetic, offering a clean and no-nonsense design for budget-conscious riders.
Though design is subjective, many still prefer the Splendor’s timeless look, while the Shine 100 targets those seeking a fuss-free commuter.
Pricing and Value
As of mid-2025, the Honda Shine 100 is priced starting around ₹64,900 (ex-showroom), making it one of the most affordable 100cc bikes in India.
The Hero Splendor Plus starts slightly higher, around ₹75,000 (ex-showroom) depending on the variant and location. The extra price goes toward features like i3S, better build feel, and more variant choices.
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Verdict – Which Commuter Makes More Sense?
If budget is the priority, the Honda Shine 100 offers an unbeatable value proposition with Honda’s reliability, solid mileage, and smooth ride.
However, if features, brand trust, and slightly better engine refinement are more important, the Hero Splendor Plus remains a favourite. Its decades-long history, wide service network, and consistent performance make it a dependable choice for the masses.
For most Indian commuters, both bikes are practical and cost-efficient, but the decision will depend on whether you prefer the most affordable option (Shine 100) or a slightly premium, feature-packed ride (Splendor Plus).
