Honda has officially unveiled its latest offering in the 125cc motorcycle segment, the CB 125 Hornet. Launched to coincide with HMSI’s 25th anniversary in India, the new streetfighter looks to bridge the gap between commuter bikes and premium performers, targeting young, urban riders seeking sporty flair combined with modern tech.
Bold design & premium build
- Aggressive streetfighter styling: The CB 125 Hornet boasts a sharp, sculpted fuel tank, split seat and a high-mounted exhaust, paired with LED twin headlights, DRLs, and high-set LED turn indicators—accentuating its streetfighter persona.
- First-in-segment golden USD forks: Honda introduces upside-down telescopic (USD) forks finished in gold and a 5-step adjustable rear mono‑shock—features unseen in this class of Motorcycles.
- Smart details: Body-colored alloy wheels, tank-mounted ignition, and split seats enhance both aesthetics and practicality
Engine & performance
- Engine specs: Powered by a 123.94 cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, OBD2B-compliant single-cylinder engine, shared with Honda SP 125 and Shine 125 models. It produces 11 hp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm, paired with a 5-speed transmission.
- Quick acceleration: Honda claims a 0–60 km/h time of 5.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest bikes in its segment.
- Featherweight agility: At just 124 kg kerb weight, the bike offers nimble handling and spirited ride dynamics.
Cutting-edge features
- 4.2‑inch TFT display with Bluetooth: Offers full connectivity via Honda’s RoadSync app—enabling navigation, music control, call/SMS alerts, and turn-by-turn directions.
- USB‑C charging port: Convenient charging while on the move.
- All-LED lighting & safety tech: Features LED lighting throughout and a 240 mm front disc with single‑channel ABS, alongside a 130 mm rear drum brake.
Color options, availability & positioning
- Color palette: Available in four vibrant dual-tone schemes—Pearl Siren Blue/Lemon Ice Yellow, Pearl Igneous Black, Siren Blue/Athletic Blue Metallic, and Siren Blue/Sports Red.
- Bookings & pricing: Pre-orders open on August 1, 2025, with official prices expected on the same day, anticipated between ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,15,000 (ex-showroom).
- Competitor landscape: Positioned against sporty 125cc rivals like the TVS Raider 125, Hero Xtreme 125R, Bajaj Pulsar N125, and the Honda SP 125.
Key technical summary
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 123.94 cc, air‑cooled, fuel‑injected |
| Max Power | 8.2 kW @ 7,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed gearbox |
| Weight & Dimensions | 124 kg kerb, 2015 × 783 × 1087 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,330 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 166 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 12 litres |
| Suspension | USD forks; mono-shock rear |
| Brakes | 240 mm disc (front); 130 mm drum (rear) with ABS |
| Tech Features | TFT display, RoadSync, USB‑C port, side-stand engine cut-off |
- Related: 2025 Royal Enfield Hunter 350 launched in India starting at ₹1.5 lakh – Full variant breakdown
Why the CB 125 Hornet matters
- Expanding Honda’s reach: As HMSI marks 25 years in India, the Hornet addresses the rising demand for sports-inspired yet commuter-friendly motorcycles.
- Youth-centric strategy: It offers a power-packed, tech-rich experience targeted at young, style-conscious riders—helping Honda deepen its hold in the premium 125cc space.
- Segment disruption: With first-of-its-kind features like golden USD forks and TFT connectivity in its class, the Honda CB 125 Hornet sets a new benchmark for value and performance.