Honda SH125i significantly updated for 2020, but not heading to Australia

Honda SH125i updated for 2020


Honda’s SH125 scooter is a huge seller in Europe, with more than 19,000 units sold last year, and is being updated for 2020. Here is Australia though it is the NSC100 Dio that leads the scooter category in sales.

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i

That may be why we won’t be seeing the new SH125i, and why the SH150 is being discontinued in Australia, with the NSC110 dominating, and the Honda also taking second place with the Benly MW110.

The two Honda scooters boasted the most impressive sales increases of the 2019 year to date, and are largely responsible for the scooter segment bucking the general trend of motorcycle sales easing.

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2020 Honda SH125i

For context, the NSC110 is a smaller capacity, competitively priced option to the SH125’s more premium, higher spec and more powerful offering.

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2020 Honda SH125i

The SH125 for model year 2020 is practically all-new, offering more storage, more comfort, more performance and better fuel efficiency.

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The 2020 Honda SH125i features a new four-valve powerplant

At the heart of the 2020 SH125i is a new four-valve liquid-cooled 125cc ‘eSP+’ engine, now Euro5 compliant as well as featuring Honda’s HSTC or Honda Selectable Torque Control sytem. This replaces the outgoing two-valve design, offering more peak performance and economy.

HONDA SH Engine Comp
2020 Honda SH125i ‘eSP+’ (enhanced Smart Power)

While increases are a modest 0.7kW and 0.5Nm or torque, up to 9.6kW at 8250rpm, and 12Nm of torque at 6500rpm, Honda promise the new performance is much stronger from 4000rpm through to 10,000rpm.

HONDA SH Torque and Power
Performance gains over the outgoing model are noticeable

The bore has been increased to 53.5mm, while a shorter stroke of 55.4mm is run, allowing for the four-valve chamber, with compression increased to 11.5:1. The radiator is also now built onto the engine and uses a compact fan as a result.

HONDA SH Exhaust System
The 2020 SH125i is also Euro5 compliant

Low friction technology is used with minute splines on the cylinder sleeve outer surface, while cylinders are offset to reduce frictional losses. Three main bearings in the transmission keep rolling resistance in check.

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The SH125i also features an LCD display along with Idling Stop and HSTC

Idling Stop has also been adopted allowing the SH125i to stop the engine after three seconds at idle, and will automatically restart once the throttle is twisted.

HONDA SHi Frame Body
An all new frame on the SH125i also allows for the fuel tank to be moved and more underseat storage

A new high-tensile steel tubular underbone frame was developed to boost storage offered, with a 10mm longer wheelbase and 799mm seat height. Wet weight is 133.9kg, shaving 400g off the previous models weight.

HONDA SH Vehicle Packaging
Storage now consists of an 18L underseat section, plus 10L of storage under the pillion seat, with fuel below the rider’s feet

The engine hanger link angle and rear suspension angle have also been revised for a more supple ride, and better overall control.

The SH125i also features 16in wheels, which are aluminium die-cast items, and run tubeless 100/80 – 16, and 120/80 – 16 Michelin City Grip tyres.

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Large 16in wheels off better stability and high speed handling, with 33mm forks

Suspension consists of 33mm forks with 89mm of travel, while rear shocks are five-step preload adjustable with 83mm of travel at the axle.

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Rotors are 240mm front and rear, with Bosch ABS as standard fitment and dual shocks with preload adjustment

ABS is standard fitment, with 240mm rotors at both ends, while the front caliper is a three-piston design, and the rear sports a single-piston caliper.

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Lighting is also now all LED

Honda have also updated the SH125i’s styling, although it’s probably a subtle change to the untrained eye, with all lighting now LED, and a new LCD display featured.

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Underseat storage includes a USB connector for phone charging

Underseat storage is boosted to 28L, with 18L to accommodate a full face helmet now joined by an additional 10L under the pillion seat. USB charging is also located under the seat.

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A smart key allows for easy access and control, without needing to enter a key for ignition

The SH125i also features a smart key, allowing for keyless ignition, and including on/off control, as well as an answer back feature, designed to allow riders to spot their scooter if they parked in among 20 other SH125i models. The steering lock is also electronic.

If the scooter market in Australia continues its upswing it will be interesting to see if Honda Australia revisit their decision to not market the SH125i here.

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2020 Honda SH125i

 

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i

 

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i

 

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i

 

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i

 

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i underseat storage

 

HONDA SHi
2020 Honda SH125i

2020 Honda SH125i Specifications

Technical Specifications
Engine
Type Liquid ­cooled, 4­stroke SOHC
Engine Displacement (cm³) 124.8 cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder 4
Bore ´ Stroke (mm) 53.5 x 55.5
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Max. Power Output 9.2 kW/8,250 rpm
Max. Torque 11.4 Nm/6,500 rpm
Oil Capacity 1L
Fuel System
Carburation PGM­FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity 7 L
Fuel Consumption 44.6km/litre
Electrical System
Starter Electric
Battery Capacity YTZ8V 7Ah MF
ACG Output 232w/5,000 rpm
Drivetrain
Clutch Type Automatic; centrifugal
Transmission Type CVT
Final Drive V­Belt
Frame
Type Tubular Steel Underbone
Chassis
Dimensions (LxWxH) 2,085 mm x 740 mm x 1,129 mm
Wheelbase 1,353 mm
Caster Angle 26°
Trail 85 mm
Seat Height 799 mm
Ground Clearance 142 mm
Kerb Weight 134 kg
Turning radius 2m
Suspension
Type Front Telescopic 3 3mm
Type Rear Dual­ damper unit swing arm
Wheels
Rim Size Front 16M/C x MT2.50
Rim Size Rear 16M/C x MT2.75
Tyres Front 100/80­16 inch
Tyres Rear 120/80­16 inch
Brakes
ABS System Type 2 channel
Instruments & Electrics
Instruments Honda Smart Key, USB charger
Headlight LED
Taillight LED

Source: MCNews.com.au

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