Honda SP 125

Honda has put in a bit of effort to make the SP 125 stand out, from the addition of vibrant graphic schemes and overall design that takes inspiration from Honda’s larger models like the CB Hornet 160R. 

The bike overall has a youthful and sporty vibe which sets it apart from the Shine 125. The reshaped tank with longer extensions gives the bike a more aggressive look and the LED headlight along with the sharp looking tail-lamp makes the bike stand out.

Another point to be noted about the bike’s design is how it makes a good impression through the build quality, with even the smaller things like switchgear and grips feeling quite premium. The cables and hoses are also kept out of sight.

The Engine used in the SP125 is a 123.94cc single cylinder air-cooled engine with a 5-speed gearbox that generates 10.8PS at 7500rpm and 10.9Nm at 6000rpm. The engine packs strong bottom-end and mid-range power which makes it perfect for riding in the city and the power is quite adequate for easy overtakes in city traffic. The only issue is that at higher speeds, such as 75-80kmph, the acceleration feels lacking and you also start getting some vibrations in the handlebar. But this isn’t a deal breaker as generally, the bike doesn’t feel stressed at high rpm.

The SP 125 features a diamond chassis that with a telescopic fork and preload-adjustable dual shocks. The Braking setup on the disc variant is handled by a 240mm disc and 130mm drum at the front and rear while the drum variant gets 130mm drum brakes at both ends. The latest version of the bike now gets a 100-section rear tyre instead of the 80-section tyre from the earlier version.

When it comes to handling the SP125 can feel  a bit heavy and requires slightly more rider input if you want to steer. But, even though it loses a bit of agility, the SP125 makes up for it with stability. The bike overall feels quite planted when it's leaned over and the suspension setup is able to handle mid-corner bumps quite well. 

The new 100-section tyres have good grip and combined with Honda’s engine refinement and soorted out suspension, the ride quality is amazing. The brakes in both the disc variant and drum variant have enough bite but the front brake lever can feel a bit soft when you’re braking hard. But sinc this bike is a commuter so it isn’t a major deal breaker. The only issue is the rear brake and its lack of feedback. At times the rider will have to stomp hard on the rear brake pedal to get the necessary stopping power.

The suspension setup in the front end is soft but not too soft, the suspension in the rear is a different story and comes off as stiff and firm but this can be changed as the rear shocks come with 5 step preload adjustability. The seat is quite spacious and comfortable and doesn’t feel too hard, so overall the bike is able to provide a smooth riding experience.

The SP125 comes with quite a bit of features such as the fully-digital LCD instrument cluster which is a segment first. The instrument cluster comes with two trip meters, and displays a lot of information like average fuel consumption, distance to empty and a gear position indicator. The bike even gets a service reminder, something which even larger bikes don’t come with. Other features include a silent starter which makes starting the bike very smooth and silent. The bike does not get ABS but does get CBS (Combi-Brake System). 

The SP125 is a good bike and an all round package that is able to satisfy most commuter needs without much trouble, the engine refinement is top class and ride quality is very smooth so it is a good choice for someone who is starting out on motorcycles and is looking for a simple commuter that also looks stylish. If you’re someone who wants more features then the TVS Raider 125 would be an ideal choice, other than this there’s quite a few options to choose from like the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 and Hero Glamour FI.