Are you looking for a bike that sips petrol like it’s expensive champagne? If you are hunting for a 125cc commuter, the Honda SP 125 has probably popped up on your radar. It is stylish, it carries the Honda badge, and everyone calls it the “Mileage King”.
But let’s be honest—buying a bike is a big decision. With rivals like the TVS Raider stealing the spotlight, is the SP 125 still the best choice in 2025? Or are there hidden problems the brochure won’t tell you?
We have dug through real owner reviews and expert opinions to give you the honest truth. Here is what you need to know.
1. The Real-World Mileage: Does it Deliver?
Let’s start with the big question. Honda claims high efficiency, but what happens on real roads?
- The Good News: Owners consistently report excellent figures. You can realistically expect 60–65 kmpl in city conditions, with some careful riders even touching 70 kmpl on highways.
- Why? It uses Honda’s PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) technology, which adjusts the fuel mixture based on ride conditions to save every drop.
- Verdict: If your priority is saving money on fuel, this bike is still a leader.
2. The Engine: Smooth Operator or Noisy Neighbour?
Honda is famous for refinement, and the SP 125 mostly lives up to that.
- Silent Start: It features an ACG starter motor, meaning there is no cranking noise. You press the button, and the bike is on—silently.
- The Feel: The 124.7cc engine is buttery smooth up to 60-70 km/h, making it perfect for city traffic.
- Comparison: While the TVS Raider feels punchier and sportier with its 3-valve engine, the SP 125 is lighter (117 kg), making it feel agile and responsive in heavy traffic.
3. The “Hidden” Issues: What Owners Are Complaining About
No bike is perfect. Before you sign that cheque, you should know about the common complaints popping up in owner forums:
- The Gearbox Grumble: Several riders have reported a “hard” or clunky gearbox. A common issue is the gear getting stuck when shifting from Neutral to 1st, specifically in traffic.
- Grip Issues: While the bike now comes with a wider rear tyre (100/80-18), some users still find the grip lacking on wet or muddy roads, leading to slipping.
- Quality Concerns: There have been scattered reports of minor oil leaks (gasket failures) and complaints about the paint quality and thin plastic parts.
4. Features: Advanced or Basic?
For a commuter, the SP 125 is surprisingly tech-loaded.
- Digital Dash: It sports a full digital meter that shows real-time mileage, distance-to-empty, and a gear position indicator.
- Look and Feel: With its LED DC headlamp and muscular tank design, it looks more premium than a standard commuter.
- Missing Out: However, it lacks a mono-shock suspension (it uses twin hydraulic shocks), which makes it less stable in corners compared to the sporty TVS Raider.
5. Final Verdict:?
Buy the Honda SP 125 if:
- You want a fuss-free, reliable daily commuter for your family.
- Mileage is your absolute top priority.
- You want a lightweight bike that is easy to handle in traffic.
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes