The Honda CB 125 Hornet, launched in India on August 1, 2025, is a sporty 125cc motorcycle designed to compete in the premium commuter segment. With its bold design, advanced features, and fuel-efficient engine, it’s a great choice for young riders and city commuters. Priced at Rs. 1.12 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s Honda’s most expensive 125cc bike yet. This article explains everything about the CB 125 Hornet in simple words, covering its price, specs, and features, to help you decide if it’s the right bike for you.
Why the Honda CB 125 Hornet Stands Out
The CB 125 Hornet marks Honda’s entry into the sporty 125cc category, challenging popular bikes like the TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R. It’s sold through Honda’s extensive dealership network and offers a mix of style, performance, and modern tech. With a lightweight frame, vibrant colors, and a feature-packed design, it appeals to riders looking for both fun and practicality.
Bold and Aggressive Design
The CB 125 Hornet has a sharp, streetfighter-inspired look that draws from its bigger Hornet siblings. Its front features a sleek LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, and sporty tank shrouds. The rear has a clean, pointed tail with LED tail lights. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tires, adding to its modern appeal. Available in four vibrant colors—Pearl Siren Blue with Sports Red, Pearl Siren Blue with Athletic Blue Metallic, Pearl Igneous Black, and Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow—it’s designed to grab attention.
Engine and Performance
The CB 125 Hornet is built for efficiency and zippy city rides, powered by a reliable engine.
Engine Specs
It uses a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 10.99 horsepower and 11.2 Nm of torque. Paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, it’s tuned for smooth city commuting and quick sprints, hitting 0-60 kmph in 5.4 seconds—claimed to be the fastest in its class. The engine meets BS6 Phase 2B emission standards, ensuring eco-friendliness.
Riding Experience
With a kerb weight of 124 kg, the CB 125 Hornet is easy to handle in traffic. Its 166 mm ground clearance handles bumps well, though the ride can feel firm at low speeds. The upside-down (USD) front forks and 5-step adjustable rear monoshock provide a balanced ride, making it stable on highways and nimble in tight spaces. The 12-liter fuel tank offers a range of about 636 km, perfect for long rides.
Fuel Efficiency
The CB 125 Hornet is a fuel-saver, with an owner-reported mileage of 53.5 kmpl. Official tests claim up to 48 kmpl, though real-world city riding may yield around 45-50 kmpl. This efficiency, combined with the large fuel tank, makes it ideal for daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Features for Comfort and Tech
The CB 125 Hornet is loaded with modern features that enhance comfort and connectivity.
High-Tech Cockpit
The bike features a 4.2-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity via the Honda RoadSync app, offering turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls. It also includes a USB-C charging port, digital speedometer, odometer, and dual trip meters. The split-seat design and 597 mm seat length ensure comfort for both rider and pillion, though long rides may feel cramped for the passenger.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority, with a single-channel ABS on the 240 mm front disc brake and a 130 mm rear drum brake. The USD forks and monoshock improve stability, while LED lights (headlamp, tail light, and turn signals) ensure better visibility. Additional features like a side-stand engine cut-off and hazard lights add practicality.
Price and Variants
The CB 125 Hornet is available in one variant, priced at Rs. 1.12 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory price). It’s slightly pricier than rivals like the Bajaj Pulsar N125 (Rs. 94,741) and Hero Xtreme 125R (Rs. 99,123). Here’s a quick look:
| Variant | Engine Type | Gearbox | Price (Rs. Lakh) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 123.94cc | 5-Speed Manual | 1.12 | TFT display, USD forks, ABS |
Prices vary by city (e.g., Rs. 1.32 lakh in Mumbai, Rs. 1.43 lakh in Bangalore), so check with your local Honda dealer.
What Riders Say
The CB 125 Hornet scores 4.6/5 from 44 user reviews, with high marks for design (4.6), performance (4.4), and comfort (4.4). Riders love its sporty look, fuel efficiency, and tech-packed display. However, some feel it’s expensive compared to rivals, and after-sales costs may be higher. Posts on X praise its “dream bike” status and vibrant colors but note the lack of a rear disc brake as a downside.
Glossary: Simplifying Complex Terms
Motorcycle terms can be tricky. Here’s a table to explain them in easy words:
| Term | Simple Explanation |
|---|---|
| cc (Cubic Capacity) | Measures engine size; bigger means more power. |
| Torque | The force that helps the bike accelerate quickly. |
| BS6 Phase 2B | Rules to reduce bike pollution; cleaner engine standard. |
| USD Forks | Upside-down front suspension; improves handling and comfort. |
| ABS | Anti-lock Braking System; prevents wheel lock-up during braking. |
| TFT Display | Thin Film Transistor; a high-quality color screen for info. |
| Kerb Weight | The bike’s total weight with fuel and fluids. |
This makes the CB 125 Hornet’s specs easier to understand.
Why the CB 125 Hornet Matters in 2025
The CB 125 Hornet is a game-changer for Honda, entering the sporty 125cc segment dominated by TVS and Hero. Launched on August 1, 2025, it has already gained traction, with bookings open and deliveries starting mid-August. Honda’s 874 dealerships across India ensure easy access to service, and the bike’s premium features like the TFT display set it apart. Its launch has sparked buzz on X, with riders excited about its global styling and tech.
Conclusion: Is the Honda CB 125 Hornet Right for You?
The Honda CB 125 Hornet 2025 is a fantastic pick for riders wanting a stylish, tech-loaded 125cc motorcycle. Priced at Rs. 1.12 lakh, it offers a fuel-efficient engine, a vibrant design, and features like a TFT display and single-channel ABS. While it’s pricier than rivals like the TVS Raider 125 or Bajaj Pulsar N125, its premium build and Honda’s reliability make it worth considering. Test ride one at a Honda dealership to experience its sporty vibe and see why it’s a top choice for young commuters and bike enthusiasts in 2025.
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