Honda SP 125: Amid the clutter of the 125cc commuter motorcycle, the Honda SP 125 comes across as a product which meets all of your expectations of a product which is a great balance between style, fuel efficiency and performance.
Based on a tried and tested platform of Honda, the SP 125 adds to it with its premium looks and contemporary features.
Launched as the replacement for the CB Shine SP, this is Honda’s foray into the BS6 era with a new engine and some added tech.
It’s not just a commuter — it’s a chic date you can take out every day that doesn’t skimp on convenience.
Design and Styling
Design One of the first things that will catch your eyes in the Honda SP 125 is its edgy and sporty looking design.
It has an aggressive headlamp configuration, slim and sharp body panels and split-style graphics to make it appealing for younger customers.
This is not like the usual commuters which look boring - the SP 125 has an attitude.
From fuel tank extensions to the blacked-out alloy wheels and the fully digital instrument console, the SP 125 looks more premium than most rivals in this price bracket.
From the side the profile is neat, and to the rear the tail section tapers away gracefully, also giving the bike a fresh appearance.
Performance and Engine
This bike is powered by a 124cc, single-cylinder air-cooled mill that delivers 10.8 bhp and 10.9 Nm of torque. It gets Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology to improve performance while increasing fuel efficiency.
This BS6 engine is connected to a 5-speed gearbox, it also delivers easy gearshifts and a smooth power delivery. The SP 125 is great for city traffic, has enough punch to get ahead at the lights and can do 60-70 km/h cruising easily in front of other vehicles as well.
It doesn’t struggle in stop-go traffic and is responsive while overtaking.
Though the claimed fuel efficiency is approximately 65 km/l, the actual mileage hovers in the range of 55-60 km/l, according to riding behavior and the surface of the road you are riding on.
Features and Technology
Honda has equipped the SP 125 with a slew of features not typically found in the 125cc segment:
Complete digital display of speedometer, gear, fuel gauge, real-time mileage, service interval etc.
LED headlamp and tail lamp
ACG Starter motor wuth automatic silent start
Built-in ON/OFF engine switch
Side-stand engine cut-off
Alloy wheels and tubeless tyres
These additions make the SP 125 come across as more upmarket and easier to live with for everyday riders.
Ride and Handling
Smartness and design elements The SP 125 employs a diamond frame chassis that comes power from telescopic front forks and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear.
The suspension is set up for Indian roads – it soaks in potholes and speed breakers without unsettling the rider.
It’s very light, at just 117 kg, and the bike is easy to throw around in traffic, or to park in tight spaces.
Its 130mm rear drum and 240mm front disc brake (or drum) are adequate when it comes to braking duties, further assisted by the Combi-Brake System (CBS) for safety.
Pros of Honda SP 125
Sporty graphics and modern design
Smooth and gas-saving engine
Full digital display console with LED light built in
Smooth shifting with 5-speed transmission
Lightweight and easy to use
Silent ACG start system for quiet start up)reader only; discrete electronic control system.
Cons of Honda SP 125
Little pricy when compared to other 125 cc bikes
Doesn’t have any smartphone interface or navigation features
Ride may be too firm for heavier riders
Not recommend for touring on the highway due to size of motor
With a pillion, rear may feel bouncy
Honda SP 125: Verdict
The Honda SP 125 is among the more premium commuter motorcycles on sale. It combines the performance of a sport bike with the long-distance capabilities and comfort of a luxury tourer.
Sure it costs just a skosh more than its contemporaries, but in return you’ll get reliability, a superior performance—and it looks SO damn cool—all in an adorably small package.
Perfect for college-goers, office-goers and the city rider within you, the SP 125 sets a new benchmark in Indian two-wheelers, proving that a commuter bike does not have to be bland.