The year is 2025, and the 125cc segment in India is no longer about “boring” office bikes. It’s a full-blown war zone. But amidst the flashy lights of newcomers, one name consistently tops the sales charts: the Honda SP 125. Starting at an average ex-showroom price of ₹87,274, it sits right in the sweet spot of “premium yet affordable.”
The real truth is… most people buy this bike because of the “Honda Badge” and the legendary refinement. But is it still worth your hard-earned money when rivals are offering TFT screens and sporty looks? Let’s stop the fluff and get into the oily bits.

QUICK SPECS TABLE
Before we dive deep, here is the “Report Card” for the Honda SP 125 (2025 Edition).
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 123.94cc, Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, SI Engine |
| Max Power | 10.87 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 10.9 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual (1-down, 4-up) |
| Mileage (Real-World) | 60 – 65 kmpl |
| Top Speed | 100 kmph |
| Kerb Weight | 116 kg (Drum) / 117 kg (Disc) |
| Ground Clearance | 160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.2 Litres |
| Braking System | CBS (Combi Brake System) |
DESIGN & BUILD (Deep Dive)
The Honda SP 125 has always been the “handsome cousin” of the regular Honda Shine. In 2025, the design remains sharp but familiar. You get aggressive tank shrouds that make the bike look bigger than a 125cc, and the LED DC Headlamp gives it a modern face.
The build quality is typical Honda—solid. There are no rattling plastics even after 5,000 km. However, at 116 kg, the bike feels incredibly light. This is a double-edged sword: it’s amazing for zipping through Karol Bagh or T Nagar traffic, but on an open highway at 80 kmph, a heavy crosswind might make you feel a bit nervous.
Don’t waste your money if… you are looking for a heavy, “iron-strong” feel like an old-school Bullet. This is a precision tool, not a sledgehammer.
Read More: Yamaha FZ-S V4

DISPLAY & VISUALS
One of the biggest updates in the 2025 model is the 4.2-inch TFT screen on the top-end variants. It’s a massive jump from the old digital console.
- Visibility: Even under the harsh 2:00 PM Indian sun, the screen is perfectly readable.
- Tech: It now supports Honda RoadSync (Bluetooth connectivity). You get turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and even a “Distance to Empty” indicator which is surprisingly accurate.
- The Gimmick: It has a “Gear Position Indicator”—a lifesaver for beginners who often find themselves searching for a 6th gear that doesn’t exist.

PERFORMANCE & GAMING THE STREETS
Let’s talk about the e-S-P (Enhanced Smart Power) technology. When you press the starter, there is no “crank-crank-vroom.” It’s a Silent Start with ACG. One moment it’s off, the next it’s purring.
Real-World Stress Test:
- 0-60 kmph: Takes about 7 seconds. It’s punchy enough to beat an Activa at a red light.
- Heating: Even in 40°C heat, the engine refinement is top-notch. Honda has used a Piston Cooling Jet that sprays oil directly under the piston.
- Multitasking: With a pillion (double-sawari), the bike doesn’t struggle until you hit an incline. On flat roads, you won’t even feel the extra weight.
ENGINE & REFINEMENT (The Heart)
The 123.94cc engine is the gold standard for refinement. While the TVS Raider feels “zippy” and “raw,” the Honda feels “smooth” and “buttery.”
The 5-speed gearbox is a blessing. The old Shine 4-speed used to feel stressed at 70 kmph, but the SP 125 cruises comfortably at 75-80 kmph without the footpegs vibrating your soul out.
BATTERY & ENDURANCE (Mileage)
In India, “Kitna Deti Hai?” is the only question that matters.
- City Mileage: 58 kmpl (Heavy traffic).
- Highway Mileage: 65-68 kmpl (at a steady 60 kmph).
- Range: With an 11.2-litre tank, you can easily cover 650+ km on a full tank.
Charging: The 2025 model finally includes a USB Type-C charging port near the handlebar. It charges your phone from 0-50% in about 45 minutes while you ride—not super fast, but enough to keep your GPS alive.
THE COMPETITION: Honda SP 125 vs TVS Raider vs Hero Xtreme 125R
| Feature | Honda SP 125 | TVS Raider 125 | Hero Xtreme 125R |
| Top Speed | 100 kmph | 99 kmph | 95 kmph |
| Key USP | Reliability/Refinement | Features/Tech | Sporty Looks/ABS |
| Suspension | Average (Stiff) | Plush | Sporty |
| Braking | CBS Only | CBS | Single Channel ABS |
The Winner:
If you are a college student who wants to look “cool,” go for the TVS Raider. If you want safety and “Big Bike” looks, the Hero Xtreme 125R wins because of the ABS.
However, if you want a bike that will last 10 years without a single engine noise, the Honda SP 125 is the undisputed king.
FINAL VERDICT
Buy it if:
- You hate vibrations and want the smoothest engine in the class.
- You want a high resale value (Honda bikes sell like hotcakes in the used market).
- You are a family man/office goer who needs a reliable daily driver.
Skip it if:
- You want a “sporty” exhaust note (the SP is very quiet).
- You want ABS (Safety is a bit lagging here).
- You frequently ride on very broken roads (the rear suspension is a bit stiff).
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What is the exact on-road price of Honda SP 125 in 2025?
Depending on the city, the on-road price ranges between ₹1.02 Lakh to ₹1.12 Lakh (including RTO and Insurance).
Does Honda SP 125 have ABS?
No, it comes with CBS (Combi Brake System). For ABS in the 125cc segment, you should look at the Hero Xtreme 125R
Can it handle long rides (200km+)?
Yes, the 5-speed gearbox and refined engine make it capable, but the seat can feel a bit hard after 2 hours. A small gel-pad cushion is recommended.
Is the TFT console available in the base variant?
No, the TFT console and Bluetooth connectivity are reserved for the DLX and Anniversary Edition variants.