The Honda SP 125 is one of the most popular commuter motorcycles in India. Known for its impeccable reliability, fuel efficiency, and practical design, it ticks many of the right boxes for daily riders. Honda’s continuous refinements — in comfort, styling, tech, and performance — make it a perennial favourite among students, professionals, and delivery riders alike.
In this detailed review, we’ll dive into the SP 125’s specifications, standout features, real-world mileage, variant options, and pricing — helping you decide if it’s the right 125cc bike for you.
Design, Build, and Ergonomics
Honda has given the SP 125 a modern and functional makeover while retaining its traditional urban appeal.
Exterior Highlights:
- Sharp, sporty LED headlamp with DRLs
- Slim panels, tank shrouds, and a tapered tail
- Side panels that conceal negative space, adding visual lift
- Comfortable seat with enough travel for pillion comfort
- Alloy wheels with a tubeless tyre setup
Ergonomics:
- Upright riding posture feels natural and helps in city navigation
- Wide handlebars and compact width make weaving through traffic effortless
- Fuel tank recesses offer better grip and control
The design balances aesthetics with ease-of-use, making it attractive without being overly flashy.
Performance: Engine & Ride Quality
The SP 125 is powered by a well-tuned 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine equipped with Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology.
Performance Figures:
- Power: Approx. 10.7 PS @ 7500 rpm
- Torque: Around 11 Nm @ 5500 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox, smooth and precise
The engine delivers refined urban performance — smooth at low speeds and responsive when tapping the mid-range. AMT variants keep it commuter-friendly, while kick-start and a crisp exhaust note add fun elements.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
One of the strongest selling points of the SP 125 is its mileage.
Real-World Tallies:
- City Riding: 55–60 km/l
- Highway Riding: 65–70 km/l
- Combined Use: Average around 60 km/l
Consistent efficiency comes from factors like lighter weight, tight engine packaging, and efficient fuel mapping. A 10L fuel tank gives a practical real-world range of roughly 600 km — excellent for daily use.
Features & Tech Comparison Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| LED Headlamp with DRLs | Bright lighting, adds a modern visual touch |
| Silent Start ACG | Smooth, whisper-quiet electric start |
| Side-stand Engine Cut-off | Prevents riding with the side-stand deployed |
| Front & Rear Disc | Aggressive braking setup with optional rear disc in some variants |
| Alloy Wheels | Lightweight tubeless setup — reliable and low-maintenance |
| Smart Phone Holder | Convenient hardware fit for dash mounting |
| Digital-Odometer with Tripmeters | Set of console readouts ideal for daily riders |
| Eco Assist Feedback Lamp | Green glow when riding in fuel-efficient range |
Variants & Price Breakdown
The SP 125 is typically available in the following trims (prices are approximate ex-showroom):
| Variant | Key Features | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| CBS | Drum brakes, basic features | 76,000 – 78,000 |
| Front-Disc CBS | Front disc brake | 79,000 – 81,000 |
| Alloy-Disc CBS | Alloy wheels + front disc | 82,000 – 84,000 |
| Front-Disc ABS | Single-channel ABS front disc | 88,000 – 90,000 |
| Alloy-Disc ABS | Alloy, front disc, ABS | 92,000 – 94,000 |
| Front-Disc CBS i3S | Idling stop-start tech | 85,000 – 87,000 |
Exact pricing varies by state, showroom offers, and Honda’s updates. Ample service network and ready availability across India make the SP 125 even more appealing.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
The SP 125 excels in city usability:
- Easy starts, holds power even under heavy loads
- Light steering, agile in constrained lanes
- Ride firm yet plush — stays comfortable on potholes and quick undulations
- 10L tank ensures fewer fuel stops, convenient for delivery riders
Comfort and ride balance help make long, stop-go sessions less tiring.
Pros & Cons
Advantages:
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Dependable Honda powertrain and build quality
- Smart safety features like ACG and side-stand cut-off
- Stylish yet understated design
- Great resale, low running cost
Considerations:
- ABS only front-channel, still lacking rear ABS
- Basic instrument console — no mobile connectivity
- Mid-range and top-end power might feel modest for riders seeking sportiness
- Limited fuel tank space can demand frequent top-ups in rare absences of station access
Who Should Buy the Honda SP 125?
If you’re looking for a dependable, economical, and stylish commuter bike, the SP 125 is tailored for:
- Students and office-goers needing fuel efficiency
- Delivery and gig workers demanding reliability
- First-time buyers prioritizing maintenance and resale value
- Anyone wanting a lightweight, hassle-free ride with quality backing
Final Verdict
The Honda SP 125 continues to dominate the commuter bike segment thanks to its fine equilibrium of performance, comfort, and convenience. Its 2025 update — complete with modern lighting, refined ergonomics, and economy-first engineering — keeps it in prime demand.
Verdict: Reliable, efficient, and feature-rich — the SP 125 remains one of the smartest choices under ₹1 lakh.