Honda SP 125 vs Bajaj Freedom: Comparing Features, Specs, Price, and More

The Indian commuter motorcycle market is rife with competition, with models like the Honda SP 125 and Bajaj Freedom standing out as popular choices. Both bikes cater to the needs of daily commuters, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and reliability. While the Honda SP 125 showcases advanced technology and modern aesthetics, the Bajaj Freedom has built its reputation on simplicity and affordability.

Understanding the differences in features, specifications, and pricing is essential for buyers to make an informed decision. This article dives into a detailed comparison of these two commuter motorcycles, highlighting their strengths and drawbacks to help you choose the ideal bike for your requirements.

Design and Build Quality

Honda SP 125: The Honda SP 125 features a sharp and modern design, appealing to younger riders and urban commuters. Its LED headlamp, sleek graphics, and muscular tank design add to its premium feel. The build quality is robust, and Honda’s attention to detail ensures durability.

Bajaj Freedom: The Bajaj Freedom opts for a simpler, no-frills design, aimed at those prioritizing functionality over flair. Its conventional headlamp, minimal graphics, and straightforward layout reflect practicality. The build quality is decent but lacks the finesse seen in the SP 125.

Engine and Performance

Honda SP 125: Powered by a 124cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, the SP 125 delivers 10.87 PS of power and 10.9 Nm of torque. The engine features Honda’s Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) technology, ensuring smooth performance and improved efficiency. It comes with a 5-speed gearbox, offering refined shifts and a top-notch riding experience.

Bajaj Freedom: The Bajaj Freedom houses a 124.6cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine producing approximately 9 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. Paired with a 4-speed gearbox, the Freedom delivers adequate performance for city commutes but lacks the refinement and advanced features of the SP 125.

Fuel Efficiency

Honda SP 125: Honda claims an impressive mileage of 65-70 km/l for the SP 125, thanks to its fuel-injection system and efficient engine design. This makes it a standout performer in the mileage department.

Bajaj Freedom: The Bajaj Freedom offers a mileage of around 60-65 km/l. While efficient, it falls slightly short of the SP 125 in terms of fuel economy.

Features

Honda SP 125: The SP 125 comes packed with features like a fully digital instrument cluster displaying real-time mileage, distance-to-empty, and gear position indicator. It also boasts an LED headlamp, silent start with ACG starter motor, and a low-maintenance seal chain.

Bajaj Freedom: The Freedom’s feature set is basic, including an analog instrument cluster, halogen headlamp, and standard electric start. It lacks the advanced tech seen in the SP 125.

Suspension and Brakes

Honda SP 125: The bike is equipped with telescopic front forks and a 5-step adjustable rear suspension, ensuring a comfortable ride. For braking, it offers a front disc brake option along with CBS (Combi Brake System) for enhanced safety.

Bajaj Freedom: The Freedom uses telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, providing adequate comfort for daily commuting. It comes with drum brakes at both ends and lacks advanced braking aids like CBS.

Price and Variants

Honda SP 125: The SP 125 is priced at approximately ₹72,000 (ex-showroom). It is available in drum and disc brake variants, catering to different rider preferences.

Bajaj Freedom: The Bajaj Freedom is more affordable, with an estimated price of around ₹60,000 (ex-showroom). It offers a single variant, making it a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Pros and Cons

Honda SP 125:

• Pros: Modern design, advanced features, excellent fuel efficiency, refined performance.
• Cons: Higher price compared to competitors.

Bajaj Freedom:

• Pros: Affordable pricing, simple and practical design.
• Cons: Lacks advanced features, average performance and refinement.

Verdict

The Honda SP 125 and Bajaj Freedom cater to distinct segments of riders. If you value advanced features, superior performance, and modern aesthetics, the Honda SP 125 is worth the higher investment. However, if affordability and basic functionality are your priorities, the Bajaj Freedom stands as a reliable option.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific requirements and budget. Both models deliver reliable commuting experiences, making them popular contenders in the Indian market.