Honda SP 125 Review 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Indian Buyers

The 125cc commuter segment in India is a battlefield of practicality, efficiency, and ever-evolving features. In this competitive landscape, the Honda SP 125 has carved a niche for itself as a premium, feature-packed offering that promises a refined riding experience. But with new contenders and updated models vying for attention, is the Honda SP 125 still a top choice for discerning Indian buyers in 2025?

This comprehensive review will delve into every aspect of the Honda SP 125, addressing the key questions and search intent of potential buyers. We'll cover everything from its on-road price and real-world mileage to a detailed breakdown of its specifications, features, and a head-to-head comparison with its rivals.

Honda SP 125 Price in India (2025): What to Expect

The Honda SP 125 is positioned as a premium commuter, and its price reflects that. As of June 2025, the ex-showroom price in major Indian cities starts at approximately ₹92,678 for the drum brake variant and goes up to ₹1,01,000 for the disc brake variant.

Here's a quick breakdown of the expected on-road price range, which includes insurance and registration charges that can vary by state:

• Drum Brake Variant: ₹1.08 Lakh onwards
• Disc Brake Variant: ₹1.15 Lakh onwards

It's always advisable to check with your local Honda dealership for the precise on-road price in your city.

Variants Explained: Drum vs. Disc

The Honda SP 125 is available in two main variants, with the primary difference being the front braking system:

• SP 125 Drum: This base variant comes equipped with a 130mm drum brake at the front. It's a more budget-friendly option suitable for riders who prioritize cost-effectiveness and primarily navigate city traffic at moderate speeds.
• SP 125 Disc: The top-end variant features a 240mm disc brake at the front, offering superior braking performance and better feedback, especially during sudden stops and at higher speeds. This variant is highly recommended for those who prioritize safety and a more confident riding experience.

Both variants come with Honda's Combi-Brake System (CBS) with an equalizer as a standard safety feature.

Engine, Performance, and Refinement: The Honda Advantage

At the heart of the Honda SP 125 lies a 123.94cc, 4-stroke, SI engine that is renowned for its smoothness and refinement. This BS6 Phase 2 compliant engine produces a healthy 10.87 PS of power at 7500 rpm and 10.9 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm.

Here's what these numbers translate to in the real world:

• Silent Start: The ACG (Alternating Current Generator) starter ensures a silent and jolt-free start every time, adding to the premium feel.
• Smooth Power Delivery: The engine is incredibly refined, with minimal vibrations even at higher revs. This makes for a comfortable and fatigue-free ride, whether you're commuting in the city or cruising on the highway.
• 5-Speed Gearbox: The slick-shifting 5-speed gearbox is a significant advantage over many of its 4-speed rivals, allowing for better cruising ability and fuel efficiency on open roads.
• eSP Technology: Honda's Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology reduces friction within the engine, further enhancing its refinement and fuel efficiency.

Honda SP 125 Mileage: Real-World Figures vs. ARAI Claims

One of the most critical factors for any commuter bike buyer is its mileage. While the ARAI-claimed mileage for the Honda SP 125 is around 65 kmpl, real-world figures are what truly matter.

Based on user reports and extensive testing, the Honda SP 125 delivers a real-world mileage of 55-60 kmpl in mixed riding conditions (city and highway). In purely city traffic, you can expect around 50-55 kmpl, while on the highway, it can deliver an impressive 60-65 kmpl when ridden sedately.

These figures make the SP 125 one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in the 125cc segment, translating to significant savings on your monthly fuel bills.

Features and Technology: A Step Ahead of the Competition?

The Honda SP 125 comes loaded with features that were once reserved for more premium motorcycles. This is where it truly stands out from many of its competitors.

• Fully Digital Instrument Console: The clear and informative digital meter displays a wealth of information, including:
• Speedometer
• Odometer
• Tachometer
• Fuel Gauge
• Gear Position Indicator
• Real-time and Average Mileage Indicator
• Distance to Empty
• LED Headlamp: The sharp and bright LED headlamp not only gives the bike a modern look but also offers excellent illumination for night riding.
• Engine Start/Stop Switch: A convenient feature that allows you to turn off the engine at traffic signals with a simple flick of a switch, saving fuel.
• Integrated Headlamp Beam & Passing Switch: This ergonomic switch makes it easy to signal and switch between high and low beams.
• Side Stand Engine Cut-off: A crucial safety feature that prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is engaged.

While the latest models in 2025 might see further updates, the current feature list already makes the SP 125 a very compelling package.

Specifications at a Glance

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

No motorcycle is perfect. Here's an objective look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Honda SP 125 to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of the Honda SP 125:

• Refined and Smooth Engine: The engine is a gem, offering a vibration-free and premium riding experience.
• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: It's one of the most frugal bikes in its class, saving you money in the long run.
• Feature-Rich: The fully digital console, LED headlamp, and other features add significant value.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned for comfort, making it ideal for daily commutes on Indian roads.
• Honda's Reliability and Resale Value: Honda is known for its bulletproof reliability and strong resale value, making it a safe investment.

Cons of the Honda SP 125:

• Conservative Design: While smart, the design might not appeal to younger buyers looking for a sportier aesthetic.
• Stiff Rear Suspension: Some riders find the rear suspension to be a bit on the stiffer side, which can be felt on sharp bumps.
• Price: It is priced at a premium compared to some of its rivals.
• Lack of ABS: While CBS is standard, the absence of a single-channel ABS option is a missed opportunity, especially at this price point.

Head-to-Head: Honda SP 125 vs. Rivals

The 125cc segment is crowded. Here's how the Honda SP 125 stacks up against its key competitors:

• Honda SP 125 vs. Hero Splendor Plus Xtec: The Splendor Plus is the undisputed king of commuters, known for its rock-solid reliability and low maintenance. However, the SP 125 offers a more premium experience with a more powerful and refined engine, a 5-speed gearbox, and better features.
• Honda SP 125 vs. Bajaj Pulsar 125: The Pulsar 125 brings the sporty DNA of the Pulsar family to the 125cc segment. It offers a more aggressive design and a peppy engine. The SP 125, on the other hand, focuses more on refinement, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
• Honda SP 125 vs. TVS Raider 125: The TVS Raider is a feature-packed and sporty offering that directly competes with the SP 125. The Raider boasts a more aggressive design, ride modes, and a slightly more powerful engine. The SP 125 counters with its superior refinement and Honda's brand trust.

Is the Honda SP 125 Worth Buying in 2025? The Final Verdict

So, the big question remains: "Is the Honda SP 125 worth buying?"

The answer depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a no-nonsense, reliable, and highly fuel-efficient commuter motorcycle with a premium feel and a host of modern features, then the Honda SP 125 is an excellent choice. Its refined engine, comfortable ergonomics, and Honda's brand value make it a very strong contender in the "best bikes under ₹1.2 lakh" category.

However, if you prioritize outright sporty looks and performance, you might want to consider the TVS Raider 125 or the Bajaj Pulsar 125. But for the mature commuter who values a smooth, silent, and economical ride without compromising on essential features, the Honda SP 125 remains a top recommendation in 2025. It is a well-rounded package that delivers on its promises and is a testament to Honda's engineering prowess.