I have been biking since 1991 and let me tell that this is the best bike I have used so far. It has style, power, reliability, decent fuel economy and comfort. Honda Shine is a silent tiger on road although with some serious shortcomings. I have briefly listed the pros and cons for my Honda Shine bought in March 2010:
Pros
It has good pick up and maneuverability for navigating through dense and unruly Indian traffic. Also you never feel the load of a pillion rider.
It is designed for a very comfortable posture. Combined with robust shock ups, it ensures you have NO back ache or fatigue for about 100 km ride.
Refined engine with a pleasant sound.
High reliability and durability - I have run it for over 30000 KMs now and it still gives a brand new feel.
Low maintenance – Servicing at every 3000 km and oil change at every 2000 km will make sure you make no extra expenses on maintenance.
A consistent mileage of about 45kmpl which is decent for this kind of power and pick up.
Cons
Missing fifth gear – For its power and pick up, the bike should have had a fifth gear to ensure smoothness on highway. It produces high vibration and sound on high speeds.
Chain dislocation – The chain surprisingly gets off frequently due to dryness and loosening. Make sure you keep oiling and tightening the chain every 2 weeks.
Common spare parts like chain cover, handle covers, front hood, indicators etc. are not available at service centers especially when your model is over 2 years old. Honda keeps making minor changes in accessories every year and it ignores the old customers. Its like they expect us to buy a new bike every year.
Honda has the most unresponsive customer support system. They never respond to e mails.
The service centers are understaffed and underequipped. It takes a long waiting to get your bike serviced.
So if you are OK with a callous service and support from the manufacture, if you can deal with minor technology/design issues and are not high on mileage, Honda Shine is your best treat on road. It will give you a riding pleasure that no other bike can give.