The festive season just got a little better for motorcycle enthusiasts as GST 2.0 has made bikes under 350cc more affordable in India. Among the most popular budget-friendly motorcycles in the country are the Hero Splendor Plus and Honda Shine 100 DX, both offering excellent value for money. But which one stands out? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the Hero Splendor Plus and Honda Shine 100 DX with a focus on their GST 2.0 pricing and other key features.

1. The GST 2.0 Impact: What’s Changed?

With the GST 2.0 tax reforms, motorcycles under 350cc have seen a reduction in taxes, making them more affordable. These changes have been specifically impactful for the Hero Splendor Plus and Honda Shine 100 DX, both of which fall under the budget commuter bike category. This has resulted in significant price cuts, making these bikes even more attractive options for daily commuters and first-time buyers.

2. hero Splendor Plus: A Long-Standing Legend

The Hero Splendor Plus needs no introduction. It has been a household name for years and is known for its reliability, low maintenance, and impressive fuel efficiency. With the GST 2.0 revision, the Splendor Plus has become even more budget-friendly, making it an even better deal for those looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient commuter bike.

Key Features of hero Splendor Plus

· Engine: 97.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine

· Power: 8.02 bhp @ 8,000 rpm

· Torque: 8.05 Nm @ 6,000 rpm

· Mileage: Approximately 65-70 km/l

· Price After GST 2.0: ₹76,000 – ₹80,000 (varies by region)

· Key Highlights:

o Iconic design with modern touches

o Excellent fuel efficiency – perfect for daily commuting

o Long service intervals and easy maintenance

o Reliable after-sales service network

3. honda Shine 100 DX: New Player, Same Reliability

The Honda Shine 100 DX is a more recent addition to Honda’s lineup, targeting the budget-conscious commuter segment. With GST 2.0, the Shine 100 DX is also more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking for a durable, reliable bike. It’s a perfect blend of Honda’s engineering with a budget-friendly price tag.

Key Features of honda Shine 100 DX

· Engine: 97.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine

· Power: 7.6 bhp @ 7,500 rpm

· Torque: 7.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm

· Mileage: Approximately 70-75 km/l

· Price After GST 2.0: ₹69,000 – ₹73,000 (varies by region)

· Key Highlights:

o Elegant and modern design with sporty elements

o Smooth performance with Honda’s reliability

o Superior comfort for longer rides with soft suspension

o Fuel-efficient and low running costs

4. Price Comparison: How GST 2.0 Benefits the Consumer

The biggest factor in this comparison is the price after the introduction of GST 2.0. Both bikes have become more affordable, which is a major advantage for budget-conscious buyers looking for daily commuters.

· Hero Splendor Plus: ₹76,000 – ₹80,000 (after GST 2.0)

· Honda Shine 100 DX: ₹69,000 – ₹73,000 (after GST 2.0)

Winner: Honda Shine 100 DX is more affordable by ₹7,000-₹10,000, making it a great option for those on a tighter budget.

5. Performance: Which bike Packs More Power?

Both bikes feature the same engine displacement (97.2cc), so the difference in performance comes down to minor tweaks in power and torque. However, the Honda Shine 100 DX delivers slightly less power than the Hero Splendor Plus, which might appeal to buyers looking for a smoother, more refined engine.

· Hero Splendor Plus: 8.02 bhp, 8.05 Nm torque

· Honda Shine 100 DX: 7.6 bhp, 7.6 Nm torque

Winner: Hero Splendor Plus offers a slightly more powerful engine, providing better acceleration and performance on highways.

6. Fuel Efficiency: The winner in Mileage

For commuters, fuel efficiency is a top priority. Here, both bikes offer impressive mileage, with the Honda Shine 100 DX having a slight edge. Its refined engine and Honda’s engineering contribute to its higher mileage figures.

· Hero Splendor Plus: 65-70 km/l

· Honda Shine 100 DX: 70-75 km/l

Winner: Honda Shine 100 DX, thanks to its slightly higher fuel efficiency.

7. Comfort and Ride Quality

When it comes to comfort, Honda Shine 100 DX has an advantage, offering a softer suspension setup that’s more comfortable for longer rides. It’s ideal for people who spend more time on the saddle. The Hero Splendor Plus is known for its reliable performance but offers a firmer suspension compared to the Shine.

Winner: Honda Shine 100 DX for a more comfortable and plush ride.

8. Design and Aesthetics

Both bikes come with modern, clean designs, but the Honda Shine 100 DX brings a sportier, slightly more premium look with a sleek fuel tank and edgy body lines. The Hero Splendor Plus, on the other hand, is more conservative with its design, retaining its iconic look.

Winner: Honda Shine 100 DX for a more contemporary design.

9. Verdict: Which bike Should You Choose?

Both the Hero Splendor Plus and Honda Shine 100 DX are excellent motorcycles, offering reliable performance and great mileage. However, with GST 2.0 pricing, Honda Shine 100 DX emerges as the better value for money option, thanks to its lower price, higher fuel efficiency, and superior comfort.

· If you prioritize performance and a more powerful engine, the Hero Splendor Plus could be your choice.

· If you’re looking for a more affordable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable ride, the Honda Shine 100 DX is your winner.

Both bikes are fantastic choices for commuting and will perform excellently for daily rides. The decision largely depends on your budget and what features matter most to you!

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.