Honda SP 125

One of the earliest updated BS VI models from Honda that came to India was the Honda SP 125. The bike was renamed to simply the SP 125 from the Honda CB Shine SP 125 nameplate earlier. Many new features were added to the bike upon its launch while a BS-VI compliant engine was also introduced with the update.

The Honda SP 125 comes with a 125 cc fuel injected and air cooled engine that dishes out 10.70 bhp at 6500 rpm and 10.90 Nm of maximum torque at 6000 rpm. This is quite similar to the previous version although the BS VI engine and electronic fuel injector have transformed the engine. A cooling jet has been newly made and this helps in spraying engine oil into the cylinder piston and sleeve. Since the motorcycle is basically a commuter motorcycle that is expected to run on a daily basis in congested traffic, it makes use of air cooling for managing heat and the cooling jet is a useful addition to the motorcycle likewise. The Honda SP 125 also comes with a fully digital instrument console. This digital instrument cluster displays speed and gear position while the fuel tank range readout is also available as a new addition. Honda has also revamped the starter switch and the switchgear has been given a more compact touch by fusing the engine kill switch and starter together. There is a new starter motor which does away with the gear meshing noise completely when the engine is cranked. This is a similar technology as witnessed in the BS VI Honda Activa. Mild styling changes have been witnessed for the Honda SP 125. It now comes with a full LED headlight which is a first in this segment. The fairing design is edgier than before while new decals are also present. This makes for a more refreshing appearance by all means. The fuel tank also has extensions along with fresher decals for creating a similar effect. Fit and finishing is highly impressive as anticipated from Honda. The SP 125 may well have the finest build quality in this market category. The feel for levers and switches is tactile and paint finishing is very attractive as well. All cycle parts and panels have been fused well and Honda has ensured that the SP 125 handles well, particularly over rough roads, tackling potholes effectively. The ride quality is firmer than what is desirable although the executive commuter bike does manage to shine. The new engine is more refined than before while bottom-end performance is also considerably smoother than earlier. It is linear in nature and the SP 125 is impressive with regard to the grunt at the midrange owing to the delivery of good linear power along with adequate spacing for the gear ratios. Performance may taper a bit at the top end while the bike may not feel as powerful after 90 Kmph on its speedometer. The engine is really smooth and does not have any knocking sound even when you suddenly halt while in second gear. The gearbox feels really smooth too while the clutch lever is on the lighter side. Gear shifts and changes are really accurate and buttery which is a delight to use. Ride quality should have been more pliant and the SP 125 has a stiffer suspension setup for a commuter bike. This is felt often on broken roads and poor stretches. A softer suspension setup may have helped without compromising overtly on overall handling. Where the Honda SP 125 disappoints is in relation to its overall handling. This is basically dependent upon the size of the tyre. Honda has provided 80/100 R18 tyres at both rear and front owing to its aim to ensure better fuel economy and this is visible in terms of overall handling of the bike. When riding on broken roads, the front wheel deflects clearly from its directional line and this is quite easy although slightly wider rubber at both rear and front makes the bike quite stable and aids rider confidence greatly. Braking abilities are also impressive with the front 240 mm disc and the rear 130 mm drum brake. They are linked via CBS and there is good stopping power overall.