Honda

SP 125

Honda SP 125

The mileage king, Honda SP 125, breathes cleaner to comply with the new carbon emission regulations. Inspired by the exclusive commuter, CB Shine SP, the SP 125 lives up to the premiumness of the previous Honda models in the segment of commuter motorcycles. It is not only frugal to ride, but also boasts dynamic features along with new colours, bodywork and graphics. It is Honda Motor’s first ever motorcycle to be BS6 compliant and comes in two standard variants. The bike is well-liked by Indian buyers for its high-performing and refined engine. The fuel economy of the bike is perhaps the main reason for its growing popularity in India. 

How is the design? 

The Honda SP 125 flaunts a revised appearance that is visibly longer, taller and wider, compared to the previous CB Shine SP. The eye-catching edgy contours and sculpted structure endow a beast-inspired styling to the bike. Moreover, the sharpness of the LED headlight, the sculpted extension of its graphic fuel tank, and the protruding tail lamps add to the sportiness of the bike. The five-spoke alloy wheels with metallic disc brakes and the fully digitalised console that comes with real-time fuel indicator, eco indicator, service reminder, and gear-positioning indicator besides other general information, give a touch of premiumness to the bike. The engine-kill switch added to the bike is in fact, a segment-first aspect of the bike. The bike’s exhaust muffler is coupled with a shield having a semi-chrome finish to make it look classier. Additionally, the bodywork of the bike having a combination of chrome and matte finishing is something admirable. 

How is the performance?

The Honda SP 125 is powered by an upgraded 125cc unit which is totally BS6 compliant along with fuel injection. The transmission duties of the bike are still operated by a standard five-speed gearbox. The motorcycle is further equipped with AC Generator for a smoother cranking of the engine. This is a significant feature which makes riding more comfortable and enhances the on-road experience. This version of the Honda bike is also geared with an eSP technology for reducing friction within the moving parts of the engine. This improves the overall performance of the bike and maximises its fuel economy. The engine has the capacity of producing 10.72 bhp of power at 7500 rpm and can obtain a maximum torque of 10.90 Nm at 6000 rpm. 

How does the Honda SP 125 ride? 

The 124-cc engine carried by the Honda SP 125 now has longer stroke, slightly increased compression ratio of 10:0:1 and smaller bore. However, these modifications do not translate to any noticeable difference while riding the bike. The refinement of the engine is something prominent and the rev range is pretty high, therefore little vibrations and gravelly notes are barely felt. The engine is smoother than before and something to look forward to. The gearbox of the Honda bike remains the very same as before and delivers smoother output than the standard 4-speed gearboxes used by general commuting bikes. 

How comfortable is the Honda SP 125? 

While Honda SP 125 delivers an overall decent on-road performance, there are some aspects that are slightly disappointing. For example, the handling of the bike is functional and works according to the size of the bike’s tyres. Honda provides R 18 tyres (80/100) at both rear and front for this model, thereby contributing to its superior fuel efficiency. However, this is observable in accordance with the handling. While handling the machine on broken roads, the front tyre tends to deflect from the original line of direction and becomes difficult to move. The stopping power and braking controls are pretty good. However, the bike feels more stable and confident because of the wider rubber at both ends. 

How's the tech? 

The Honda SP 125 boasts a rather longer list of technical features than most of the rival bikes at this price range. Similar to the BS6 Activa 125, the Honda SP 125 comes with an LED headlamp and silent-start mechanism. The fully digitalised console of the bike displays significant information such as real-time fuel indicator, eco indicator, service reminder, and gear-positioning indicator besides other general information. These features contribute to the comfort and convenience of the rider. A new switchgear has been included in it along with a pass switch in the tandem. The left-handlebar has a high/low beam switch and the right handlebar has a switch for starting and stopping the engine. The engine has been cranked and the starter motor barely creates a gear-meshing sound. 

How's the mileage of the Honda SP 125? 

The average mileage of the Honda SP 125 is a stunning 65 kmpl, thanks to the fuel economy mechanism of the bike.

Is the Honda SP 125 good value for money? 

Honda has smartly crafted the SP 125 with the revised features and the noticeable styling tweaks. This proves that this bike goes beyond a mere BS6 upgrade. The drum variant of the bike costs around 85,131, while the disc variant costs around 89,131. This is slightly higher than the BS4 Shine SP and justifiable on the ground that it transitioned into BS6. Overall, this bike is a mileage bike and loaded with features and one cannot ask for more at this price. 

How is the after sales service? 

For all the bS6 motorcycles and scooters, Honda has the same service schedule, i.e., one free service after 15-30 days or upon covering 750-1000 km, second one after 165-80 days or upon covering 5500-6000 km and the third one after 350-365 days or upon covering 11500-12000 km. Paid services are granted after every 180 days or 6000 km. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

The most popular rival motorbikes of the Honda SP 125 are Honda Shine, TVS Raider, Bajaj Pulsar 125 Neon and Hero Glamour xtec. These bikes are slightly higher in price than the Honda SP 125. 

Verdict (Value for money)

The Honda SP 125 is a good value for money proposition. This bike is an excellent city commuter and good on long hauls. It gives a stunning mileage of 65 kmpl and has a maximum speed of 100 kmpl.