27YM Honda SH Mode 125

Quick Summary: A new look, increased tech – courtesy of a 4.2” TFT monitor  RoadSync connectivity – plus new USB-C port and a range of new colours keep the SH Mode on the pulse of every major city, answering the needs of commuters across Europe

Model updates: Honda’s fashionable SH variant received a full refresh in 2021. Updates included a LED headlight, next-generation enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF), enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine, and wheels fitted with fuel-saving tyres. For 27YM, a facelift tightens the front fascia, with new colour options to amplify the new look, and spec is boosted through the addition of a new full colour 4.2” TFT monitor and USB Type-C socket. 

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Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Model overview
3. Key features
4. Accessories
5. Technical specifications

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1. Introduction

Since the arrival of the original SH50 in 1984, the enduring popularity of Honda’s SH scooter series has earned it the status of a brand within a brand, relied upon by people all over Europe as an integral part of their daily lives. 

During that time, the SH family has constantly grown and evolved, with sales totalling over 1.2 million units produced since its introduction thanks to excellent engine performance and fuel economy plus nimble, sure-footed handling and reassuring stability – from 16-inch wheels – on rougher roads.

On sale in Europe since summer 2014, the SH Mode 125 has broadened the appeal of the SH family to a younger audience. It’s proved a smart scooter in every sense, very much of the moment, with its deft combination of on-trend style, confidence-inspiring performance and low running costs. Over its twelve-year production run, over 152,000 units have found European homes. 

In 2021, a major upgrade for the SH Mode 125 was unveiled, with enhanced performance and practicality, to reflect the evolving aspirations, desires and expectations of an ever-growing audience of young Honda riders. For 24YM the SH Mode 125 benefited from two new contemporary colours.

27YM sees the SH Mode 125 go further still, with new useful everyday technology, a sharper, more dynamic front end, and new stylish colour options. 

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2. Model Overview

A chic refresh enhanced the SH Mode 125 in 21YM, led by an attractive LED headlight for its distinctive face. Underneath, the SH Mode 125 benefitted from a new, lighter steel ‘enhanced Smart Architecture Frame’ (eSAF) and more powerful (and fuel efficient) enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine and new aluminium wheels wearing fuel-saving tyres.

Practically was also improved. Storage space was increased under the seat and a handy glovebox was installed on the left inner fairing, with a USB Type-A socket for charging duties. Smart Key operation of ignition and seat – from the rider’s pocket – was the premium finishing touch.

For 24YM, the SH Mode 125 receives two new contemporary colours, whilst for 27YM, the scooter gains a number of revisions, from style to tech, to ensure it stays a compelling option for any commuter looking to make their life easier and more stylish. 

The 27YM SH Mode 125 will be available in the following colours:

• **NEW** Pearl Nostalgic Green
• **NEW** Vanilla White
• Candy Luster Red
• Matt Galaxy Black Metallic

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3. Key Features
    3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Wide, flat floor for ample leg room
• LED headlight for sharp front look
• Generous storage under the seat, USB charging socket in the glovebox
• Smart Key operation of ignition and seat as standard

The elegant 2021 update added more appeal and desirability to the SH Mode 125, with a sharp LED headlight elevating road presence. Practical enhancements were not overlooked, with an extended flat floor giving more generous leg room.

For 27YM, the SH Mode 125 receives a refreshed look, thanks to a redesigned front facia that adds a new dynamic, mass forward approach to the styling. Taut lines bring the SH Mode right into the modern day, whilst a revised muffler protective cover finishes off the visual refresh. The new changes are amplified through new colour options.

The 765mm seat height and other specifications are unchanged. The glovebox on the left now houses a USB Type-C socket for charging a smartphone. The 18.5L under-seat storage compartment includes luggage hooks for load security.

The SH Mode 125 uses a Smart Key. Kept in a pocket, it controls both ignition and seat locking, adding genuine convenience in support of busy urban life.

The centrepiece of the new riding experience is a brand new, full colour 4.2-inch TFT display, fuel gauge and clock. Replacing the traditional analogue read out, the new unit now relays all key information in an easy to digest format. For convenient smartphone charging, a USB-C socket also is included.

The main stand is carefully sited at just the right contact area on the ground for the rider’s foot, making it easier to use. In addition, a side stand is standard equipment. Passengers are not forgotten, either. They have a comfortable space plus folding footplates and grab rails integrated into the large die-cast aluminium rack.

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3.2 Engine 

• eSP+ four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine
• The engine features Idling Stop
• 50km/l fuel efficiency 

The SH Mode 125’s enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine delivers 8.7kW @ 8,500rpm, with peak torque of 12.0Nm@ 5,000rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 53.5 x 55.5mm, with compression ratio of 11.5:1. 

The flat linear torque curve from low rpm is perfect for urban environments and riders with diverse riding experience. And, thanks to the engine’s fuel efficiency of 47.6km/l, (WMTC mode) and 5.6L tank, range is approximately 265km between fill ups.

Honda’s eSP low-friction technologies are found throughout the engine; clever packaging of items like the oil pump (which is built in to the crankcase) help to further ensure efficiency. A compact combustion chamber and PGM-FI fuel injection optimises burning velocity and cooling performance. 

An offset cylinder reduces friction caused by contact between piston and bore, efficiently transmitting combustion energy to the crankshaft. A ‘spiny’ cast-iron sleeve – with tiny surface extensions – keeps in check any distortion of the inner bore diameter. This design lowers tension in the piston ring, reducing friction.

A high-efficiency radiator – integrated into the exterior of the right-side crankcase – employs a small, light fan reducing frictional losses and lowering drag. Rolling resistance within the transmission unit is reduced by the use of three low-friction main bearings, all designed to deal with the loads they individually receive. The drive pulley features a fin design that lowers air resistance and the follower pulley reduces pressure on the drive belt, cutting transmission losses.

The electronically controlled, brushless ACG starter is an integrated component mounted directly on the end of the crankshaft, serving as starter motor and alternator. It spins the engine directly, eliminating any noise from gear engagement or meshing.

Idling Stop automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle when the scooter is stationary and the brakes applied, and re-starts it instantly when the throttle grip is twisted. It’s seamless in use thanks to ACG and the swing-back system that returns the crank to its position before air intake, and a decompression mechanism that negates cranking resistance from compression. It has the functionality to ‘read’ the battery charge and turns itself off to avoid excessive drain.

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3.3 Chassis

• Light enhanced Smart Architecture Frame
• Tyres reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency

The SH Mode 125 features an enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF) Constructed from lightweight pressed steel it offers good handling feel, with enhanced stability, ride comfort and durability.

Rake is set at 27°, with 69.5mm trail and wheelbase of 1,305mm (from 27°, 68mm and 1,305mm). Overall dimensions are compact: (LxWxH) of 1,950mm x 681mm x 1,110mm, with a ground clearance, at 151mm. Combined with a kerb weight of 118kg, the overall result is an outstandingly agile and user-friendly city scooter.

The telescopic forks feature 89mm travel, the rear suspension – with 5-stage adjustable spring preload – has 75mm travel. The 16-inch cast-aluminium front wheel mounts an 80/90-16 tyre, the 14-inch rear wheel a 100/90-14; with tyres designed to reduce drag and improve overall fuel efficiency. 

Up front the 220mm hydraulic disc brake links to a rear 130mm drum via CBS, ensuring smooth and evenly distributed braking force at all times, including hard and emergency stops.

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4. Accessories

A range of genuine Honda accessories are available for the SH Mode 125 including: 

• A 35-litre Top box & rear carrier kit, with Honda One-Key system lock 

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5. Technical Specifications: 

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice 

Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.