#16 — Honda Shine 125 — The Evergreen 125cc Benchmark
The Honda Shine has been India’s best-selling 125cc motorcycle for over a decade, and that track record speaks volumes about its reliability and value. The 124cc engine shares its DNA with the SP 125 but is tuned for slightly better fuel efficiency, delivering around 50–55 km/l in real-world delivery conditions. Honda’s eSP technology ensures smooth starts and quiet operation, which is appreciated during early morning and late-night deliveries in residential areas.
The Shine 125 offers a supremely comfortable riding experience with a well-padded seat and a suspension setup that handles everything from smooth highways to cratered back lanes. The 10.5-litre fuel tank gives approximately 550 km of range. Honda’s legendary low-maintenance engine means fewer unplanned workshop visits — crucial for delivery riders who cannot afford to miss a day of work.
Commercial Verdict: If reliability is your number one priority and you want a 125cc bike that simply works without drama, the Honda Shine 125 is the answer. Delivery riders across India swear by the Shine for its “start it and forget it” engine character. The best-in-class resale value also protects your investment long-term.
👍 Pros
- India’s best-selling 125cc — massive trust factor and proven reliability
- Honda eSP engine is ultra-low maintenance and supremely reliable
- Best resale value in the 125cc segment — protects your investment
- Comfortable for all-day riding with a well-padded seat
👎 Cons
- Feature list is basic compared to XTEC-equipped Hero rivals
- No Bluetooth or USB charger in any variant
- Design has remained largely unchanged for several years
#17 — Bajaj CT 125X — The Rugged 125cc Value Pick
The Bajaj CT 125X brings the same rugged, no-nonsense DNA of the CT 110X to the 125cc segment — but at the lowest price in the 125cc category. It is essentially the most affordable way to get a 125cc engine on two wheels in India. The 124cc engine delivers adequate power for loaded riding, and Bajaj’s DTS-i (Digital Twin Spark ignition) technology helps optimise fuel efficiency. Real-world delivery mileage sits around 50–55 km/l, which is competitive for a 125cc motorcycle at this price point.
The CT 125X retains the high ground clearance, engine bashplate, and rugged tubular frame that make the CT range so suitable for Indian road conditions. The 5-speed gearbox allows for relaxed highway cruising. At ₹80,000, it undercuts every other 125cc motorcycle on this list, making it the best value proposition in the segment for budget-conscious delivery riders.
Commercial Verdict: The CT 125X is the smartest choice for delivery riders who want 125cc power and rugged build quality at the lowest possible price. If you are using a bike EMI calculator to plan your finances, the CT 125X will show the lowest monthly outgo among all 125cc options, freeing up more of your delivery earnings for savings or personal expenses.
👍 Pros
- Most affordable 125cc motorcycle in India — unbeatable value
- High ground clearance and engine guard for rough roads
- 5-speed gearbox for relaxed inter-zone highway cruising
- DTS-i twin-spark engine optimises fuel combustion
👎 Cons
- Very basic feature set — analogue console, no Bluetooth
- Engine refinement is below Honda and Hero rivals
- Resale value is lower than Honda Shine or Hero Splendor
