Honda SP 125

The SP 125 can be considered Honda’s most premium offering in the 125cc segment and with the modern features it packs, like the fully digital instrument cluster, side-stand engine cut-off and silent starter we certainly agree. But the question is, can the SP 125 handle its own in the super competitive 125cc segment? Let’s find out.

Design 

The first thing that has to be noted is how the SP 125 stands out, Honda has definitely put in some effort into this and taken quite a few design cues from their larger models like the CB Hornet 160R. The SP 125 is able to differentiate itself from the Shine 125 thanks to the youthful and sporty vibe it gets along with the aggressive look, a result of the tank extensions and the sharp LED headlight plus tail-lamp setup.

The other aspect that makes the bike stand out is the build quality, Honda has done a pretty good job making the smaller things like the switchgear and grips feel more premium and the overall fit and finish levels are also great as most cables and hoses are out of sight.

Engine, Mileage & Performance

The Engine that powers the SP125 is a 123.94cc air-cooled single cylinder engine that’s mated to a 5-speed gearbox, generating 10.9PS at 7500rpm and 10.9Nm at 6000rpm. The power delivery is quite linear, with most of the power and torque being delivered at the bottom-end and mid-range. This has made the bike quite good when riding in the city, and overtaking and shooting in and out of traffic is quite an easy affair. The 3rd gear is ideal for city riding, and the bike can sustain around 90kmph on the highway in 5th, with just mild vibrations on the handlebar. The throttle response is quick as well.

Handling & Ride Quality

The SP 125 is built on a diamond frame and is suspended on a telescopic fork at front and dual shock absorbers in the rear that are preload adjustable. Braking setup is based on a 240mm disc and 130mm drum in the disc variant and 130mm drum at both ends in the base drum variant. You need to put in some effort to tip the bike into corners. This could’ve been deliberately done to ensure the target buyers are comfortable with the bike when it comes to cornering. Similarly, the brakes too lack initial bite, and the rider has to really grab the lever. Honda could have given single channel ABS on the disc variant for better safety. 

The suspension setup is a balanced one that is able to handle most bumps and potholes quite well, but the rear is slightly on the firmer side for a commuter bike.

Comfort

When it comes to comfort the bike has a few things going for it. The first is the suspension. At the front the telescopic forks are quite balanced, neither too soft nor too hard, but the suspension in the rear can come off as stiff. This isn’t an issue as the 5-step preload adjustability that comes with the rear shock absorbers makes it easy to correct. Second, the seat is quite spacious and comfortable, giving the rider a smooth riding experience even on longer journeys.

Features 

The SP 125, being Honda’s most premium offering, packs quite a bit of modern features like a segment-first fully-digital instrument cluster to smaller things like a silent starter and CBS(Combi-Brake System). The instrument cluster is impressive and displays a ton of information from tripmeter to other real time information like average mileage, distance to empty and even comes with a gear position indicator. Honda has also given the bike a service reminder.

Should you buy the SP125?

The SP 125 is a bike that can be considered an all round package that offers a good deal to most people who are looking for a premium 125cc commuter motorcycle, one that is a refined city commuter with sporty looks and a decent set of features. 

But if features are more important to you then there’s always the TVS Raider 125.