Honda SH125i Reviews

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Honda SH125i
★★★★☆
4.2
81.0% of users recommend this
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  • Reliability

  • Value For Money

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Specification for Honda SH125i

Engine
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke SOHC single
Engine Displacement: 125cc
Bore & Stroke: 52.4 x 57.8mm Compression Ratio: 11.0 : 1
Carburation: PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Max. Power Output: 13 bhp at 9,000 rpm
Max. Torque: 11.5Nm at 7,000 rpm
Ignition: Digital transistorised with electronic advance
Starter: Electric

Transmission
Gearbox: V-Matic
Final Drive: Belt drive

Dimensions and Weight
Length x Width x Height: 2,020 x 700 x 1,140mm
Wheelbase: 1,335mm
Seat Height: 790mm
Ground Clearance: 149mm
Fuel Capacity: 7.5 litres
Dry Weight: 120 kg

Wheels, Suspension and Brakes
Wheels Front: U-section 5-spoke cast aluminium
Wheels Rear: U-section 5-spoke cast aluminium
Tyres Front: 100/80-16 50P
Tyres Rear: 120/80-16 60P
Suspension Front: 33mm telescopic fork, 90mm axle travel
Suspension Rear: Dual damper unit swingarm, 82mm axle travel
Brakes Front: 220mm hydraulic disc with dual-piston calliper and sintered metal pads
Brakes Rear: 130 mm leading/trailing drum

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Latest Reviews

“Very good bie ”

★★★★☆

written by 309McDonald on 22/08/2014

I bought this bike 5 months ago 2014 plate and tbh it's a very good bike I gets lots of looks when driving it one of the best and fastest 125cc out there I've did 65 mph on it and it sounds just like the sh 300cc love the colour as I got it in white, and it's easy to clean and it's shines like new, handing is very good and good around corners, the seating area inside is quiet small you can only fit a half face helmet inside or a jacket or something like that, not so good things After I had this bike 1 month after I had a fault battery and j had to give it back to the shop 3 time to replace this issus and j don't like the abs breaks kind a anoyying if u like going fast up the hill or going down a hill,

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“A good comuter”

★★★★☆

written by jirob on 24/05/2014

Ive had my sh125 for over a year and generally very pleased with it although it did have to go back to the main dealer for a recall on the fuel pump. Honda claim 133 mgg,i average 124 miles per gallon,pretty close. The under seat compartment is too small even for an open faced helmet but the bike comes with a topbox as standard which is large enough for a helmet.Handling is pretty good for a small machine aided with the decent wheel size, my main gripe with the machine is the stiff suspension which seems to be common to other honda models,its doesn't absorb bumps in the road that well.Cruising speed is anything up to 50mph after that it gets a little buzzy,its working hard after that .This is my third honda 125 in a row i take them to around 20000 miles and trade them in for a new one ,not the cheapest on the market but generally pretty good

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“Honda sh125i 2005 honest unbiased opinion ”

★★★★★

written by Thorpe126 on 24/03/2014

Having owned ZX6r's etc etc and taking an interest in bikes for some time I was some what dubious when my Dad offered me his sh125i. It had 16k on the clock & I never had rode a scooter before. Handling at first was a shock!! Obviously completely diff to super sports, it felt like at first it did not want to go around corners lol. Now I'm used to it, it is very impressive, bike will lean right over without grounding out. Tyres seem pretty good and larger wheels are a big bonus. I can't believe the rubbish you read on reviews. I have used this for long distance, carrying daughter & sons around short distances & up to 80 mile journeys, everything thing this bike does it does it well. It's a 125 !! Remembering that and it makes this bike truly impressive. Honest mpg is with teenagers on the back 80- 100 mpg and on my own 80- 120 riding fast and long distance cruising at 50. Bad points. Engine makes an unusual wurring noise around 40-50 which I don' know is normal, if it is I don't like it! Build quality is average nothing to shout about, bit disappointed. Changed settings on suspension to hard and adjuster bolt snapped off. Back brake squeaks which is annoying and doesn't look that easy to take apart, could be wrong so putting up with it. Changing a headlight bulb looks a pain. Would be nice if the engine was quieter as it is only a 125 and would be better in stealth mode with not a lot of hp. Good points. This bikes seems to do everything well & the more you ride it the more you like it. I've done 360 miles in one day on it & run around town shopping etc. The best thing about this bike is it's user friendly and very relaxing. Would love to try the sh300. I serviced bike myself which is easy & cheap, normal stuff oil, air filter, plug. Changing oil every 1k because it only costs me £7 & hoping engine will go on forever lol. Reliability so far 100%

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“Wish I had kept my Yamaha”

★★★☆☆

written by nobike1 on 13/08/2013

300 miles on the clock no fuel to plug. Could this be another fuel pump? Off the road. My dealer cannot look at it for many days as they are too busy. Honda customer services not interested, given case reference number and told they will contact me within three days!!!

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“Desapointed”

★★★☆☆

written by on 28/07/2013

Only with 200 miles on the clock and the fuel pump gone! Very bad for a Honda.

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“its good but not that good”

★★★☆☆

written by jonnypaps on 04/05/2013

I bought the honda 125i on 3rd March and since then had its first service (not cheap)and now seven weeks later the fuel pump has stopped working and the bike cant start ok the bike is under warranty and it will be fixed,but the inconvenience this has caused me is such a pain.When i bought this bike i was looking for reliable and hassle free motoring hence the reason why i bought the Honda 125i but i have quickly realised this was a big mistake i would not recommend this expensive so called reliable scooter to anybody

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Qprchris's Response to jonnypaps's Review

Written on: 25/07/2013

I have had exactly the same problem. I have a bike less than 6 months old and with only 2700 miles on the clock. Had the bike serviced the day before, and was riding along when all power went. i was lucky to be able to pull over and not cause an accident. I then waited over 4 hrs for a tow to Honda. When I got there, they were trying to give the impression that because I hadn't had the service done with them, the warranty may be invalid! For the service of 2500 miles, they were quoting 3150 when I got in done in a very good garage for £64!

Got a call to say the good news was a fuel pump problem and that the warranty would cover the problem.

Not happy that a problem such as this should occur on such a new bike with very lo mileage!

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“Excellent Town Bike”

★★★★★

written by riopup on 24/10/2012

Bought a second hand SH125, 3 years old with 10.000 on the clock, first scooter after many years on motorbikes. This is an excellent little machine. Fast, looks nice, comfortable. I had the rollers, belt and brake disks replaced soon after I got it as they were due which made a noticable improvement to performance and handling. I checked fuel consumption and it does 95mpg round town (London). Took a while to get used to a scooter but now I love the SH125, its a great machine. Downsides are low speed manouvering is not as good as a bike and its noisier and revvy at low speeds both both due to auto clutch, and suspension bit harsh over speed bumps etc but these things are due to general scooter design not the SH125 I think. The only specific gripe to the bike is the fuel tank is small - does only 120 miles or so on a tank so more stops filling up. Very minor points compared to the whole though, its recommended. Definately worth buying the Tocano leg cover as well. Not very rock and roll but boy is it cosy and makes winter riding loads nicer.

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“How to be an obstruction on the road!”

★★☆☆☆

written by london2wheels on 28/04/2012

My credentials for forwarding this review are: 1. I have had a full bike license for 15 years. 2. Have owned following Honda’s CB/CBR’s 125, 250, 600, 1000. 3. Currently own CBR600 + SH300. 4. Have had a new SH 125 for 2 week from main dealer, whilst my bike is serviced. The plus side of this bike are a free rear box, low weight, maneuverability and handling at low speed. The minus sides are 6 litre tank that will give you a maximum range of around 120 miles(depending on driving style). No side stand. No engine cut off switch. The automatic clutch is very unresponsive so the bike does not pull away predictably or quickly. It takes around 5 seconds 0-30mph and after 50mph the engine does not want to know. Max speed is around 60mph. In summary; it is an acceptable motorised bicycle for going to the shops. Get on a 40mph+ road and you need eyes in the back of your head to dodge the traffic coming from behind you. You would be wiser to go with a smaller engine (and keep to side roads) or a larger engine (and get on the big roads) rather than this folly of indecision.

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Ladbroke355's Response to london2wheels's Review

Written on: 14/06/2013

So the sh125 is not good for a roads how about the sh300 how does that handle and cope?

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“Sh125 good but not brilliant”

★★★★☆

written by msm115 on 20/09/2011

I have had two 50cc Hondas (Zoomers - see my reviews in that section) before this bike, and it's a massive step up. I have passed the test, so use the SH125 on the motorway from time to time and as long as you don't expect too much, it can handle this. The ride and 'solid' feel of this bike are great - the large wheels and good build quality contribute to that. If the bike exceeds 60mph there's a lot more mechanical noise and vibration which take a little bit of getting used to. Under-seat storage is good for the handbook and a small cable lock only - my full-face won't go in there, even on its own, despite what Honda say. Reliability wise I've had a couple of fortnights layoff when the (garaged) bike was really quite hard to start. For a brand new bike in summer weather that's just not good enough. One minor niggle is the position of the oil drain plug - you can't get a tray under this as the centre stand gets in the way! I do about 5000 miles per year, so I'll update as the bike accumulates the miles!

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“Perhaps it is just me BUT have had lots of problems...”

★★★☆☆

written by on 23/02/2011

Perhaps it is just me BUT have had lots of problems starting this scooter what is the correct technique seems like you need 3 hands can anyone please assist me .What i have been doing is holding front brake on swich on ignition then you have to press starter before light goes out once it goes is a very nice bike help any sudgestions
i previously had a honda 125 dylan had no problems with that started brill but because this bike is fuel injected seems to have made starting worse

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Skie's Comment

Written on: 22/03/2011

you have to wait for the red light fuel injection light to go out and then start it by holding the back brake (left) and the ignition switch

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Ronny.bossu's Comment

Written on: 16/02/2013

Just switch on ignition, hold left brake firmly and press starter.

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Guest's Comment

Written on: 03/08/2011

hi i have the sh 125 05 you have to wait till the red light goes out b4 you start it

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“As an experienced motorcyclist, the large diameter...”

★★★★★

written by on 15/02/2011

As an experienced motorcyclist, the large diameter wheels are essential - especially on poorly maintained roads such as they have here (Isle of Wight). Good for the larger person (6'1'') and with the top box, very practical. Smooth, quick and quiet. Very good lights. The exhaust is rusting a little despite regular washing - ditto the rear shocks- but it is used all year. Buy the Honda screen - it keeps the weather off and consider the Tucano Urbano leg covers - brilliant(I was in Italy last year and there are loads of people that have these bikes with the above accessories). I would buy another one.

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“I have a honda sh 125i I can sey that is the best...”

★★★★★

written by on 13/01/2011

I have a honda sh 125i I can sey that is the best 125cc scooter in reability and fuel low comsumtion. I recomend to every one this scooter is the best in their category. This scooter has good look, comfortable, strong and the best runs just smelling the petrol tank, other advantage is very chip price on spare parts if you nered to change it.

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“Purchased this bike for the Taxi Knowledge. Have done...”

★★★★★

written by on 20/06/2010

Purchased this bike for the Taxi Knowledge. Have done over 9800 miles since Jan 09. Still runs like a dream. I change the oil every 1000 miles as i need it to run smoothly. The service is too expensive especially by Honda dealers and every 2500 is too short. I suggest you learn how to at least change the oil which cost £12 and 20 mins of your time and change the front breaks as these can wear quickly. That takes a bit more time but any DIY'er can do it.
Apart from that my Speedo stopped working so will see if it can be changed under warranty however i doubt it as i have done all the servicing myself. But the money i saved im sure it wont cost that much or i will just do it myself.
Overall highly recommended.

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“I bought this bike in May 2008.It had one owner and...”

★★★★★

written by on 15/05/2010

I bought this bike in May 2008.It had one owner and was in prestine condition. The dealer was pleasant to deal with. I have found it a very good bike. I did have to put a new speedo cable on and have been told this is a common problem. It is a sturdy bike and much better than my previously owned Aprilia 150 scooter. I needed to get the customised screen supplied reduced in size to see over the top of it even though I am 5.10. Recently my left side mirror has comme off and it apprears to be a sealed unit-so I haven't a clue how it can be fixed. I will contact the dealer. It is a short bike and I find it much easier to ride than some modern scooters that are all style but awkward to ride. If your looking for a reliable run about scooter this one I would recommend.

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“I have had my Honda SH125 for almost 2 years. bought...”

★★★★★

written by on 14/05/2010

I have had my Honda SH125 for almost 2 years. bought it secondhand with 1500 in the clock, mow it is about 8K.
Having done CBT on a 50cc moped this was like a Porsche, fast, comfortable and grippy. In one word the bike is perfect for 125cc.
I have out on a Givi screen, cut it to height and ride it all year except when snow. I am 5'6 and find the seat low enough and the riding position very comfortable. Have not done more than 200miles in a day but I think that any long distance is not a problem. The suspension is set up rather sporty so heavy bags/pillion improve comfort but affect take off speed.
Top speed is 65mph on a plain, strong wind may affect it either way. But 55-60pmh is quite relaxed cruising speed, very comfortable at. Just relax and watch the world around you sailing past, enjoy every minute of this trip as it will not happen again !
Topbox provides for day to day storage needs but the underseat is very small - I keep a spare petrol bottle, waterproofs and a 80 litre rucksack tightly folded in a roll there. That allows to make supermarket trips if required.
7 litres of petrol is good for 130 miles riding energetically.
Reliability has been fantastic and the only work apart from routine servicing required was cleaning brake callipers after winter salt but this is a problem for all motorcycles. Servicing schedule is in the user guide and is very easy to d.i.y. with some tools.
Services are every 2,500miles (oil - castrol racing 10W-40 from halfords, clean transmission air filter under pillion foot rest, and empty the tube at the back of the air filter) and spark plug every 5K, air filter every 7.5K, spark plug(NGK) at 5K was as new - could have lived to 7.5 service. But the air filter was badly blocked - should have been done at 5K.
Tranny oil and antifreeze every 2-3 years and brake fluid every year, when cleaning the calliper. Belt every 15,000 but I will check it every year after 10K service. There is a nut on the end of pulling rod for rear brake which needs to be adjusted in as the brake shoes wear. If it is not, the linked front brake will hold the front wheel too tight and it may be dangerous on a slippery road. The right setting is when the rear is holding quite tight and front just beginning to bite. That is my personal opinion and use it at your own discretion.
And get yourself one if you are still thinking! ;-)

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“i have used it every day shopping but in the spring...”

★★★★★

written by on 24/01/2010

i have used it every day shopping but in the spring and summer long rides to as far south weston- wales brecon becons- elan vally aberytwith to north wales rhyl [ jim ]

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“I had my SH125i from new in October 2006 until...”

★★★★☆

written by on 02/11/2009

I had my SH125i from new in October 2006 until November 2008. I regularly commuted 12 miles to the London Bridge area, including throughout the winter. It was a reliable, efficient machine which looked and felt well built.

Main strengths:

. Started first time, every time;
. Flat floor handy for shopping;
. 16" wheels = good ride quality and stability at higher speeds;
. Narrow, so easy to filter through slow/stationary traffic;
. Fast away from traffic lights;
. Fun!

Main weaknesses:

. Insufficient space for crash helmet under the seat.

A trade off for the 16" wheels is reduced under seat storage (although a top box is supplied as standard equipment). I have read that large wheels are supposed to be less agile at low speed than the smaller ones usually found on scooters. I never found this a particular issue.

A good power to weight ratio (for a 125cc scooter) means you can get away from traffic lights quickly. In two years of riding, a car only beat me once (a determined driver in a high powered BMW).

The top speed I achieved was a speedo indicated 65 mph on a national speed limit dual carriageway, so I recommend the SH125i (or PS125i) for journeys on roads with a speed limit of 60 mph or less.

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“Honda SH125i starts first time. However, questionable...”

☆☆☆☆☆

written by on 14/06/2009

Honda SH125i starts first time. However, questionable reliabilty, service intervals way too short. Crankshaft oil seal 'popped' at 4000 miles approx £100 to repair.

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“The Honda SH 125i is still very reliable and...”

★★★★★

written by on 30/05/2009

The Honda SH 125i is still very reliable and comfortable to ride. Servicing is at every 2500 miles, and can be quite costly (UK £85). Speedometer cable failed, within the first year. My dealer has given me 2 years on parts and warranty; I am also covered for 2 years by the AA (UK - top of the range - roadside assistance and recovery). The main headlight is excellent at night, (The sidelights are pathetic and can / should be available for customisation). The tyre grip is fantastic, even in the wet, and you can lean into corners with absolute confidence. For a commuter Scooter, the acceleration is fine and you can "out drag" quite a number of vehicles. Avoid "Proper" Motorcycles and "Sports" Cars.

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“Given the initial "Expert Review" I am quite...”

★★★★★

written by on 01/04/2009

Given the initial "Expert Review" I am quite surprised. My HOnda SH 125i is nearly one year old. All users should have their Bikes "steam cleaned", on a monthly basis, as certain components tend to rust rapidly (Advice given from Local Dealer). When I took the Honda 125i for its first Service at 2500 miles (The yellow indicator lights up at every 2500 miles in the UK, You can do a further 250 miles whilst it is lit, but I wouldn`t advise it.)

My Speedometer failed to work, several days before the service, due to ware and tare on the plastic parts supplied by the manufacturer. Eventually, my dealer agreed to pass all charges parts and labour on to Honda. My Dealer has given me a two year warranty (Parts and labour), plus two years, total recovery service, from the UK`s top (AA) Roadside Recovery Organisation.

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Asked by jaggmister on 28th February 2023 Report this content
my honda 125 shi very poor starting in damp conditions , spent a bomb on it not amused.

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Asked by seanchalk on 4th March 2018 Report this content
I bought a Honda sh125i 2008 started it up the next day started fine, turned it off. An hour later went to go out and nothing, no power whatsoever, no lights no nothing. Checked the fuses, battery etc.  I’m stuck. What else could it be?

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