Bajaj Pulsar 125 Vs Honda CB Shine SP: Spec Comparison
Which 125cc bike should you go for?
The Bajaj Pulsar 125 Neon is the gateway into the Pulsar family. It offers a more cost affordable option to the Pulsar 150, which is no longer as affordable as it was before because of the addition of ABS. With a tempting price of Rs 64,000 for the drum variant, Bajaj has also managed to undercut the Honda CB Shine SP, which is the undisputed king in the 125cc class. So how does the baby Pulsar stack up against the 125cc sales champion?
Engine:
| Specifications | Bajaj Pulsar 125 | Honda CB Shine SP |
| Engine | 124.4cc single-cylinder, 2-valve, DTS-i engine | 124.73cc single-cylinder, 2-valve engine |
| Power | 12PS @ 8500rpm | 10.30PS @ 7500rpm |
| Torque | 11Nm @ 6500rpm | 10.30Nm @ 5500rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
While we do not know the exact origins of the new Pulsar’s engine are what we do know is that it is the most powerful air-cooled 125cc engine in India. Since it belongs to the Pulsar family and not to the Discover range, expect this engine to also be tuned to offer decent performance. The Honda’s motor on the other hand is designed to do just one thing – deliver phenomenal fuel efficiency. So while it might not be as quick as the Pulsar 125, we figure it could be the more frugal choice of the two.
Underpinnings:
Bajaj Pulsar 125 | Honda CB Shine SP | |
| Front suspension | Conventional telescopic fork | Conventional telescopic fork |
| Rear suspension | Twin shocks | Twin shocks |
| Front brake | 240mm disc / 170mm drum | 240mm disc / 130mm drum |
| Rear brake | 130mm drum | 130mm drum |
| Front tyre | 80/100 - 17 | 80/100 - 18 |
| Rear tyre | 100/80 - 17 | 80/100 - 18 |
Both motorcycles have a conventional telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers suspending the frame. Even if you consider the braking department, the two 125s have the same setup for the front disc variants. Honda is sticking to its guns with an 18-inch rim setup as it offers a more stable riding experience while cornering. The Pulsar 125 is the more sportier bike of the two with 17-inch wheels aiding agility.
Dimensions:
Bajaj Pulsar 125 | Honda CB Shine SP | |
| LxBxH (mm) | 2055 x 755 x 1060 | 2007 x 762 x 1085 |
| Wheelbase | 1320mm | 1266mm |
| Ground clearance | 165mm | 160mm |
| Kerb weight | 140kg | Drum: 120kg Disc: 123kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11.5 litre | 10.5 litre |
The Pulsar 125 is longer and heavier than the Shine SP. Plus the 60mm more wheelbase means that it will not be as light on its feet as the Shine. It might have a larger fuel tank but we feel that the frugal Honda motor will help the Shine offer as much if not better range in the city or even on the highway.
Prices:
Bajaj Pulsar 125 | Honda CB Shine SP | |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | Drum CBS: Rs 64,000 Disc CBS: Rs 66,618 | Drum CBS: Rs 65,020 Disc CBS: Rs 68,938 |
As previously mentioned, Bajaj has managed to undercut the CB Shine SP by Rs 1000 h to Rs 2000, depending on the variant you choose. For those who would like to have a premium touch as well as want more punch from their daily commute, we figure the Pulsar 125 could be a good alternative to the CB Shine SP. However, if it is about mileage and reliability, we still feel that the Honda has the edge in the matter. We will be riding the Pulsar 125 soon. Stay tuned to BikeDekho for the first ride report.