Honda Shine DX vs Hero Splendor Plus Spec Comparison: What's Different?

Honda’s newly unveiled Shine 100 DX takes aim directly at the longstanding commuter favourite, the Hero Splendor Plus. With bookings starting August 1, the Shine DX’s official ex-showroom price has yet to be announced. Under the bodywork, it packs a 98.98 cc air‑cooled engine delivering 7.28bhp and 8.04Nm. In contrast, the Hero Splendor Plus runs a 97.2 cc unit producing 7.89bhp and 8.05Nm, with a 112 kg kerb weight and 18-inch wheels, all featuring OBD‑2B compliance, i3S idle‑stop tech, and real‑time mileage display. This comparison lays the groundwork for contrasting where Shine DX innovates versus Splendor’s proven formula.

Honda Shine DX vs Hero Splendor Plus Spec Comparison: Price

Honda’s latest commuter entrant, the Shine 100 DX, has been officially revealed, though its pricing is yet to be announced.

Also Read: Honda Shine 100 DX vs Regular Model: Key Differences Explained

In contrast, the tried-and-true Hero Splendor Plus continues to retail in India at a starting price of Rs 79,426 (ex-showroom).

Honda Shine DX vs Hero Splendor Plus Spec Comparison: Design

The Shine 100 DX takes a bold approach to styling with a large, chrome-accented headlamp and all-plastic bodywork. Its muscular fuel tank blends neatly into a single-piece seat, offering a more substantial road presence. Available in four colour schemes – Geny Gray Metallic, Pearl Igneous Black, Athletic Blue Metallic, and Imperial Red Metallic – the DX rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.

Hero’s Splendor Plus sticks closely to its familiar design, maintaining its classic commuter silhouette. The brand has kept it fresh by frequently refreshing its graphics and paintwork. A slim frame, 3D logo, and chrome-finished Splendor+ badge define its look. Buyers get five colour options: Black Heavy Grey, Sports Red Black, Force Silver, Blue Black, and Black Red Purple. It also comes with tubeless tyres, but uses slightly larger 18-inch wheels.

Honda Shine DX vs Hero Splendor Plus Spec Comparison: Engine Specs

Under the bodywork, the Shine DX is built on a diamond frame and draws power from a 98.98cc single-cylinder engine, producing 7.28bhp at 7,500rpm and 8.04Nm of torque at 5,000rpm. It is mated to a four-speed gearbox with a wet multiplate clutch and is offered with both kick and electric start options.

Meanwhile, the Hero Splendor Plus uses a tubular double cradle frame and is powered by a 97.2cc air-cooled engine that churns out 7.89bhp at 8,000rpm and 8.05Nm at 6,000rpm. Like the Shine DX, it also features a four-speed transmission and a similar clutch setup.

Honda Shine DX vs Hero Splendor Plus Spec Comparison: Features

One of the Shine 100 DX’s major upgrades is its digital LCD instrument cluster, which offers real-time mileage and distance-to-empty readouts. A side-stand engine cut-off function prevents the engine from starting unless the stand is retracted, enhancing safety.

The Splendor Plus, in its standard form, comes with a basic analogue console. However, Hero also offers the Splendor Plus XTEC variant, which adds modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, a digital display, real-time mileage information, and SMS alerts.

Also Read: Honda Shine 100 DX Debuts with Larger Fuel Tank and Updated Graphics

Both motorcycles are equipped with telescopic front forks and adjustable twin shock absorbers at the rear. Drum brakes are used at both ends, in keeping with their focus on affordability and ease of maintenance.