Hero Glamour X 125 vs Honda SP 125
In the highly competitive 125cc commuter motorcycle segment in India, two bikes consistently emerge as top contenders for practical riders seeking the perfect balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and style. The Hero Glamour and Honda SP 125 have established themselves as reliable workhorses that don’t compromise on aesthetics. As we navigate through 2025, both these motorcycles continue to evolve, offering modern features while maintaining their core strengths. Let’s dive deep into what makes each of these bikes special and which one deserves your hard-earned money.
Table of Contents
The Legacy Behind the Names
Hero MotoCorp’s Glamour series has been a household name in India for over two decades. Known for its reliability and impressive fuel economy, the Glamour has transported millions of Indians to work, school, and beyond. The brand has consistently focused on delivering practical motorcycles that Indian families can depend on.
Honda, on the other hand, brings its global engineering expertise to the SP 125. Honda’s reputation for building bulletproof engines and refined motorcycles precedes it. The SP in the name stands for “Sports and Performance,” indicating Honda’s intention to offer something beyond basic commuting.
Pricing and Value Proposition in 2025
Hero Glamour X 125 Pricing
The Hero Glamour is available in multiple variants in 2025, with prices starting from approximately ₹84,000 for the drum brake variant and going up to ₹91,000 for the top-spec disc brake variant with alloy wheels (ex-showroom prices may vary by location). This pricing strategy makes the Glamour accessible to a wide range of buyers while offering options for those who want additional features.
Hero’s competitive pricing has always been one of its strongest weapons, and the Glamour continues this tradition. The company leverages its massive production scale and extensive supplier network to keep costs down without sacrificing quality.
Honda SP 125 Pricing
The Honda SP 125 commands a premium, with prices ranging from approximately ₹92,000 for the drum brake variant to ₹99,000 for the top-end disc brake variant with Bluetooth connectivity (ex-showroom prices). This price difference of roughly ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 over the Glamour reflects Honda’s premium positioning and additional features.
While more expensive upfront, Honda justifies this premium with superior build quality, advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, and the brand’s legendary reliability. For many buyers, the Honda badge itself represents assurance and prestige worth the extra investment.
On-Road Costs and Financing
When considering on-road prices including registration, insurance, and other charges, expect to pay approximately ₹95,000 to ₹1,02,000 for the Glamour and ₹1,03,000 to ₹1,12,000 for the SP 125, depending on your location and variant choice. Both manufacturers offer attractive financing options with down payments as low as 10-15% and EMIs that can fit most budgets.
Engine Performance and Riding Dynamics
Hero Glamour: Proven Efficiency
The Hero Glamour is powered by a 124.7cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing approximately 10.7 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 10.6 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. These might seem like modest numbers, but they’re perfectly calibrated for Indian riding conditions. The engine uses Hero’s proprietary i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology in higher variants, which automatically shuts off the engine at traffic stops to save fuel.
The powerplant is mated to a smooth 5-speed gearbox that offers well-spaced ratios for city commuting and highway cruising. The engine feels peppy in city traffic, with adequate torque available from low revs for easy overtaking in congested conditions.
What impresses most about the Glamour’s engine is its refinement. Hero has worked extensively on reducing vibrations, and the result is a smooth operator that doesn’t fatigue the rider even on longer journeys. The engine settles into a comfortable rhythm at 60-70 km/h, making it ideal for daily commutes and weekend rides alike.
Honda SP 125: Refined Performance
Honda’s SP 125 features a 124cc air-cooled, OHC single-cylinder engine producing 10.9 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. While the power figures are marginally higher than the Glamour, the real difference lies in Honda’s legendary engine refinement and build quality.
The engine incorporates Honda’s proprietary technologies including Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) for optimal fuel-air mixture and Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) for improved combustion efficiency. These technologies work together to deliver consistent performance across varying altitudes and temperatures.
The 5-speed gearbox on the SP 125 is butter-smooth, with precise shifts that require minimal effort. Honda’s attention to detail is evident in the clutch action, gear engagement, and overall mechanical feel. The engine pulls cleanly from as low as 25 km/h in top gear, showcasing excellent tractability.
One area where the SP 125 particularly shines is high-speed stability and refinement. The engine remains composed even when pushed to its limits, with vibrations well-controlled throughout the rev range.
Fuel Efficiency: The Deciding Factor for Many
Hero Glamour Mileage
Fuel efficiency is where the Hero Glamour truly excels. Real-world mileage figures consistently hover around 55-60 km/l in mixed riding conditions, with careful riders reporting figures as high as 65 km/l on highways. In pure city conditions with heavy traffic, expect around 50-55 km/l, which is still excellent for a 125cc motorcycle.
The i3S technology contributes significantly to these impressive numbers, especially for riders who spend considerable time in stop-and-go traffic. Hero claims the system can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10% in typical city riding conditions.
With a fuel tank capacity of 10 liters, the Glamour offers a theoretical range of 550-650 kilometers on a single tank, making it an excellent choice for those who want to minimize fuel stops.
Honda SP 125 Mileage
The Honda SP 125 also delivers impressive fuel economy, with real-world figures ranging from 50-58 km/l depending on riding conditions. Highway runs can yield up to 62 km/l, while city riding typically returns 48-52 km/l. While these numbers are slightly lower than the Glamour, they’re still class-leading and more than adequate for most users.
Honda’s PGM-FI system ensures optimal fuel consumption across various riding scenarios, adapting to changes in load, temperature, and altitude. The 11-liter fuel tank gives the SP 125 a theoretical range of 550-640 kilometers, matching the Glamour’s touring capability.
The marginal difference in fuel efficiency between these two bikes translates to negligible cost differences over time, especially considering the SP 125’s other advantages.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Daily Riding Reality
Hero Glamour Comfort Features
The Hero Glamour scores high marks for comfort, with a well-padded seat that provides excellent support for both rider and pillion. The seat height of 790mm makes it accessible to riders of various heights, including shorter riders who appreciate being able to plant both feet firmly on the ground.
The upright riding position reduces strain on the back and wrists during long rides. The handlebar positioning is spot-on for city riding, offering good leverage for maneuvering through traffic while remaining comfortable on highways.
Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear. The setup is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, absorbing most road imperfections without feeling too soft or bouncy. Indian roads with their potholes and speed breakers are handled with reasonable composure.
The footpeg position is neutral, allowing natural leg positioning without cramping even on extended rides. The fuel tank extensions provide decent knee grip for more spirited riding.
Honda SP 125 Comfort Features
The Honda SP 125 takes comfort seriously with a spacious, well-cushioned seat that remains comfortable even after hours in the saddle. The seat height of 790mm matches the Glamour, ensuring similar accessibility.
Honda’s attention to ergonomics is evident throughout the bike. The handlebar sweep and rise are carefully calculated to reduce wrist strain, while the footpeg position allows for a relaxed, natural riding posture.
The suspension setup on the SP 125 is slightly firmer than the Glamour, which some riders prefer as it provides better feedback and more planted feel during cornering. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks offer 124mm of suspension travel, effectively dealing with broken roads.
One area where the SP 125 edges ahead is vibration damping. Honda’s meticulous engineering ensures that engine vibrations are minimal throughout the rev range, contributing to reduced fatigue on longer journeys.
The pillion seat is generously sized and comfortable, with well-positioned grab rails that enhance passenger confidence. The footpegs are rubber-mounted to reduce vibration transfer.
Style and Design: Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder
Hero Glamour Design Philosophy
The 2025 Hero Glamour sports a mature, elegant design that appeals to a wide demographic. The styling is contemporary without being overly aggressive, making it appropriate for both young professionals and mature riders.
The bike features sharp body panels, stylish graphics, and a well-integrated LED taillight in higher variants. The muscular fuel tank with its sculpted lines adds visual weight and presence. The chrome treatment on exhaust covers and other components adds a touch of premium feel.
Available in multiple color options including black, red, grey, and blue, the Glamour offers something for every taste. The build quality is solid, with good panel fit and finish that has improved significantly over previous generations.
The analog-digital instrument cluster provides all essential information clearly, though it lacks the modern fully digital display found on some competitors.
Honda SP 125 Design Philosophy
The Honda SP 125 takes a sportier approach to styling, with sharp cuts, aggressive lines, and a dynamic stance. The design language is more youthful and energetic compared to the Glamour’s mature appeal.
Key design highlights include the distinctive LED headlamp with position lights, sharp fuel tank shrouds, and a sleek tail section. The SP 125 looks more expensive than its price tag suggests, with attention to detail evident in every panel.
Honda offers the SP 125 in attractive color options with bold graphics that enhance its sporty character. The premium paint quality and excellent panel gaps reflect Honda’s manufacturing expertise.
The fully digital instrument cluster is a highlight, offering Bluetooth connectivity in top variants that allows riders to access call and SMS notifications, navigation, and more through Honda’s smartphone app. This modern feature set appeals strongly to younger, tech-savvy buyers.
Features and Technology Comparison
Hero Glamour Features
- i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) in select variants
- Maintenance-free battery
- LED taillights (select variants)
- Tubeless tires
- Side-stand indicator with engine cut-off
- Unified braking system (CBS) in disc variant
- Analog-digital instrument console
Honda SP 125 Features
- Bluetooth connectivity with smartphone integration (select variants)
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- LED headlamp and position lights
- PGM-FI fuel injection
- CBS (Combined Braking System)
- Silent starter motor
- Tubeless tires
- Engine kill switch
- Pass light switch
The SP 125 clearly offers more modern features, particularly in the technology department with its Bluetooth connectivity and comprehensive digital display.
Maintenance and Ownership Costs
Hero MotoCorp’s extensive service network with over 6,000 touchpoints across India ensures that Glamour owners can find service centers even in remote areas. Service costs are typically lower for Hero bikes, with routine maintenance costing between ₹500-800 depending on the type of service.
Honda’s service network, while extensive, is not as widespread as Hero’s. However, Honda compensates with superior build quality that often requires less frequent attention. Service costs are marginally higher, typically ranging from ₹700-1,000 for routine maintenance.
Both bikes come with warranties that provide peace of mind. Spare parts availability is excellent for both, though Hero parts are generally more affordable and widely stocked.
Resale Value and Long-Term Investment
Both Hero and Honda motorcycles enjoy strong resale values in the Indian market. The Glamour’s popularity and reputation for reliability ensure decent resale prices, typically retaining 50-60% of value after three years.
Honda bikes generally command a slight premium in the used market due to brand perception and build quality. The SP 125 can retain 55-65% of its value after three years, making it a slightly better long-term investment despite the higher initial cost.
The Verdict: Which 125cc Should You Choose?
Choose the Hero Glamour if:
- Budget is a primary concern
- Maximum fuel efficiency is your top priority
- You prefer mature, understated styling
- Widespread service network availability is important
- You ride primarily in city conditions
- Lower maintenance costs matter
- You don’t need advanced connectivity features
Choose the Honda SP 125 if:
- You can stretch your budget slightly
- Build quality and refinement are priorities
- Modern features like Bluetooth connectivity appeal to you
- You prefer sportier styling
- Brand prestige matters
- You ride frequently on highways
- You want better resale value
Final Thoughts
Both the Hero Glamour and Honda SP 125 are excellent 125cc motorcycles that excel in comfort, mileage, and style. The Glamour offers unbeatable value and running costs, making it perfect for budget-conscious riders who prioritize economy above all else. The SP 125 justifies its premium pricing with superior refinement, modern features, and Honda’s legendary reliability.
Your choice ultimately depends on your budget, preferences, and what you value most in a daily commuter. Either way, you’ll be getting a dependable companion that will serve you faithfully for years to come, making every rupee spent worthwhile. In the 125cc segment of 2025, you really can’t go wrong with either of these proven performers.
