The 125cc commuter bike segment is highly popular in India for offering a great balance between fuel efficiency, style, and decent performance. Among the top choices are the Honda SP 125 and the Hero Glamour XTEC. Both bikes bring modern features and reliable engines to the table, but they cater to slightly different riders. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to see which one suits you better.
Contents
Design and Styling
Honda SP 125
The SP 125 carries a sharp, sleek design with attractive graphics, a stylish headlamp, and a slim profile. It feels premium yet practical, with a compact and sporty stance that appeals to younger riders as well as daily commuters.
Hero Glamour XTEC
The Glamour XTEC offers a more muscular look with bold body panels, a striking front end, and bigger dimensions. It looks slightly more imposing compared to the SP 125 and brings a more modern, tech-loaded appearance, especially with its digital meter and LED lighting elements.
Verdict:
If you want a sleeker, sporty commuter, the SP 125 feels better. If you prefer a bigger, bolder road presence, the Glamour XTEC edges ahead.
Engine and Performance
Honda SP 125
- Engine: 123.94cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected
- Power: 10.87 PS @ 7500 rpm
- Torque: 10.9 Nm @ 6000 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed
The SP 125’s engine is smooth, refined, and tuned for efficiency and everyday usability. It offers peppy performance for city rides and occasional highway cruising.
Hero Glamour XTEC
- Engine: 124.7cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected
- Power: 10.84 PS @ 7500 rpm
- Torque: 10.6 Nm @ 6000 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed
The Glamour XTEC offers similar performance on paper, with slightly more weight, making its performance feel marginally calmer. However, it is still smooth and very city-friendly.
Verdict:
Both bikes are very close in performance, but the SP 125 feels a tad more refined and responsive.
Ride Quality and Handling
Honda SP 125
The SP 125 is lightweight (around 117 kg) and offers nimble handling. The suspension is tuned towards comfort, making it excellent for urban traffic and short commutes.
Hero Glamour XTEC
The Glamour XTEC weighs slightly more (around 122 kg) but offers a stable and comfortable ride. It is better suited for riders who want a slightly more planted feel, especially on uneven roads.
Verdict:
For quick, nimble city rides, the SP 125 wins. For a more planted, heavier feel over rough patches, Glamour XTEC has an edge.
Features and Equipment
| Feature | Honda SP 125 | Hero Glamour XTEC |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | Fully Digital | Fully Digital with Bluetooth |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No | Yes |
| LED Headlamp | Yes | Yes |
| Side Stand Engine Cut-off | Yes | Yes |
| Real-Time Mileage Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation Assist | No | Yes |
The Glamour XTEC takes a clear lead in terms of features by offering Bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and SMS notifications. The SP 125, while fully digital and feature-rich, lacks Bluetooth tech.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
- Honda SP 125: Around 60–65 kmpl in real-world conditions.
- Hero Glamour XTEC: Around 55–60 kmpl depending on riding style.
Verdict:
The SP 125 offers slightly better fuel efficiency.
Pricing
- Honda SP 125: Approx. ₹90,000 – ₹94,000 (ex-showroom)
- Hero Glamour XTEC: Approx. ₹89,000 – ₹94,000 (ex-showroom)
Verdict:
Both bikes are priced very closely. Depending on the variant (drum/disc), the on-road price difference is minor.
After-Sales Service and Maintenance
Honda SP 125
Honda offers excellent service quality, reliability, and lower maintenance costs over time. The SP 125 enjoys a strong reputation for durability.
Hero Glamour XTEC
Hero MotoCorp has one of the largest service networks in India and very affordable maintenance. The Glamour XTEC is built for low-cost ownership and offers very competitive spare part pricing.
Verdict:
Both bikes offer reliable service, but Hero’s service network may be more extensive in rural areas.
Final Verdict: Which Bike Should You Buy?
- Choose the Honda SP 125 if you want:
- Sharper and more refined performance
- Slightly better fuel economy
- Premium fit and finish
- Lightweight, nimble handling
- Choose the Hero Glamour XTEC if you want:
- More modern tech (Bluetooth, navigation)
- A bigger, more muscular-looking bike
- A stable and comfortable ride
- Affordable spare parts and easy service access
Both bikes are excellent in their own right. Your final decision should depend on whether you prioritize refinement and mileage (SP 125) or features and style (Glamour XTEC).
