I purchased the bike new model HHSS on 29.5.2011(Price Rs54, 144 on road including Rs.560 for helmet) . The choice was between Honda Shine, Suzuki Sling Shot and Super Splendor. On test drive I found shine didn’t have the pick up; the power doesn’t come fast enough. Sling shot has very smooth gear shift but the Super Splendor had the new looks and on test driving I found the power coming fast enough. So the pick up and good looks were the deciding factor. It is a good commuter bike for city.
The during 1st five hundred kms I was told to drive at the most 40kmph by the show room(Singla Automobiles, Palam Dabri Rd, N.Delhi) guys; which I did and see the result - Even before 1st servicing I got fuel average of 68 kmpl. Amazing! Earlier I had driven Activa for 8 years, which is also a good scooter but never gave more than 55 kmpl. Honda had service issues which discouraged me to have any Honda. One whole day is wasted at the Honda service station for servicing.
Moreover the over smart mechanics always act smart to fool you. Invariably they will end you in loosing more money, either for purchasing spare parts or just tips. Honda has to improve in this front(i.e. service).
Today that’s enough. I will write more after 1000kms.
D. Barua
Date:13.7.2011
Now that I have driven 1300 kms, I am writing second review. The average goes down to 63 kmpl if driven at speed of near about 50 to 60 kmph. The second gear shift has improved, but shifting from first to second is still slightly hard.