Yamaha Saluto vs rivals: Specifications comparison

Today, we compare five motorcycles in the strategic 125cc segment. This segment is one of the most important ones for the Indian motorcycle consumer, because it usually offers a blend of good fuel efficiency, decent yet stylish looks and the ability to transport two in comfort. Quite naturally, the strongest players in the market strive to provide excellence in every way possible on these visibly small but sales-garnering motorcycles. Let’s take a look at their details. Provided below is also a concise spec sheet.

Displacement

Compared to its sibling, the Yamaha Saluto is now powered by a full 125cc, whereas the SS125 only has a 123cc engine. The Bajaj Discover 125M, the Honda CB Shine and the Hero Super Splendor are all powered by 124.7cc engines.

Power

It’s amazing to see how all five engines generate almost the same cubic capacity, but still are tuned to produce varied brake horse power. So, in this respect, the Bajaj Discover 125M takes the lead, producing 11.3bhp at 8,000rpm followed by the Yamaha SS125 and the Honda CB Shine, at just below 11bhp. And the Yamaha Saluto produces the least here at 8.2bhp made at 7,000rpm.

Torque

All three motorcycles produce almost the same amount of torque at 1.1kgm, but peak torque is achieved at different rpms. The quickest peak-torque delivery is achieved by the Hero Super Splendor that makes it as early at 4,000rpm. Yamaha is not far behind with its new Saluto, making the same at 4,500rpm. If we solely compare this to the older Yamaha SS125, we can see that it makes the same at 6,500rpm, which is not most ideal. Therefore, Yamaha advances technically now.

Suspension

All five bikes here are equipped with telescopic front suspension and dual shocks at rear.

Fuel-tank capacity

A spot that takes a hit on the new Yamaha Saluto is the minimal fuel-tank capacity, at just 7.6 litres. The Hero Splendor has a capacity of 13 litres and the Honda CB Shine is equipped with a 10.5-litre tank.

Brakes

The Yamaha SS125, Honda CB Shine and the Bajaj Discover 125M do offer an optional disc brake up front for a safer ride. The Yamaha Saluto and the Hero Super Splendor are offered only with a drum brake up front. Rear wheels on all five bikes use a drum-brake setup for braking.

Weight

Another very crucial detail Yamaha has worked on is decreasing the kerb weight of its Saluto. This two wheeler weighs only 112kg, making it the lightest motorcycle in the segment. It is followed by the Bajaj Discover 125M at 117kg, and the CB Shine at 118kg.

Dimensions

The Yamaha Saluto is the longest motorcycle in this list measuring 2,035mm. Similarly, the Honda CB Shine has the broadest stance at 762mm, making it the widest. The tallest here is the Yamaha SS125 at 1110mm.

Price

At Rs 52,000, the Yamaha Saluto makes for a decent proposition as it joins the most-affordable club with Bajaj’s Discover 125M, which is only a bit cheaper at Rs 51,274. The Honda CB Shine costs Rs 55,524 and the Hero Super Splendor costs Rs 53,600.