Here’s a detailed look at the Honda CB125 Hornet recently unveiled for the Indian market:
🏍️ Overview & Unveiling
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) launched the all-new CB125 Hornet on July 23, 2025 to commemorate its 25th anniversary in India. Bookings start August 1, 2025, with pricing expected to be around ₹1.0–1.15 lakh (ex-showroom).
🔧 Engine & Performance
- Engine: 123.94 cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder air-cooled SI unit (shared with SP 125 / Shine 125), tuned to deliver 11.1 hp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm.
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox.
- Acceleration Claim: 0–60 km/h in just 5.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest in its segment.
🎨 Design & Style
- Bold streetfighter styling with a twin‑LED headlamp flanked by LED DRLs and high‑mounted turn indicators.
- Muscular tank shrouds, a sharply sculpted fuel tank, and a compact upswept exhaust add to the aggressive look.
- Golden USD front forks (a first-in-class feature) paired with a preload-adjustable mono-shock for the rear.
- Unique fuel tank-mounted ignition key/fob, plus a split-seater setup for sporty yet functional ergonomics.
📱 Features & Technology
- 4.2-inch TFT touchscreen instrument cluster with Bluetooth integration via Honda’s RoadSync app.
- Features include turn-by-turn navigation, music playback display, call/SMS alerts, and control via left handlebar switches.
- USB Type-C charging port, engine stop switch, and side‑stand engine cut-off for safety and convenience.
🚦 Safety & Chassis
- Front brake: 240 mm petal disc with single-channel ABS.
- Rear brake: Drum type.
- Dual‑channel ABS is not offered, which might be a drawback in comparison to some rivals.
- 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres (80/100 front, 110/80 rear) for improved grip and stability.
📏 Dimensions & Practicality
- Kerb weight: 124 kg — quite light for the segment.
- Fuel tank capacity: 12 litres.
- Ground clearance: 166 mm.
- Wheelbase: Approximately 1,330 mm.
🎨 Colour Options
Available in four dynamic dual-tone finishes:
- Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow
- Athletic Blue Metallic variant of Pearl Siren Blue
- Pearl Igneous Black
- Pearl Siren Blue with Sports Red.
🏁 Competition
Designed to take on premium sporty commuters like:
- TVS Raider 125
- Hero Xtreme 125R
- Bajaj Pulsar N125
It aims to stand out with its styling, advanced features, and peppy performance.
✔️ Key Highlights & Considerations
| ✔️ Pros | ❗ Cons |
|---|---|
| Aggressive styling with class-first USD forks | Single-channel ABS only |
| Connected TFT display with navigation & call alerts | Price might be slightly higher than some rivals |
| Lightweight, peppy engine with strong acceleration | Long-term resale value needs to be seen |
Some online users note that while it’s a fun and feature-rich bike, the suspension might feel stiff and resale value is yet to be established (based on earlier Hornet experiences)
