Honda CB Hornet 125: The Perfect Blend of Style, Tech, and Performance in the 125cc Segment
Are you looking for a stylish, feature-packed, and reliable motorcycle in the 125cc segment? The Honda CB Hornet 125 might just be the bike that ticks all your boxes. Let’s explore what makes this motorcycle stand out and why it could be your ideal daily companion.
Eye-Catching Design with a Bold Rear Look
In the world of motorcycles, the rear design often plays a crucial role in attracting riders. Honda has paid special attention here. The back of the CB Hornet 125 is strikingly attractive, with a sleek tail lamp that lights up with a unique pattern when braking. The LED taillights and indicators add a modern touch, while the saree guard is thoughtfully designed to blend safety and aesthetics seamlessly.
From a side view, the bike exudes a sporty yet elegant aura. Honda CB Hornet 125 seamless body panels, slanting fuel tank, and fibre-based side covers give it a dynamic presence. The overall profile suggests a larger bike, making it feel substantial despite its 125cc capacity.
Impressive Lighting and Front End Features
The front of the bike boasts LED projectors with small chips inside, offering bright, bassy illumination. The low beam and high beam projectors are housed within stylish, affordable LED units, giving the bike a distinctive look on the road. The design isn’t just for appearance; it enhances visibility, which is vital for city commuting and night riding.
Advanced Instrument Cluster and Connectivity
One of the standout features is its colourful digital display. Unlike most bikes in this segment, Honda has equipped the CB Hornet 125 with a large, vibrant TFT console. It shows essential info such as gear position, RPM, fuel gauge, trip details, and even the time. Plus, it supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make calls, view notifications, and switch between different themes like day and night modes – a rare feature in this class.
Engine and Performance – Smooth, Refined, and Efficient
Powering this machine is a 124cc four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. Honda claims a peak power of around 10.9 HP at 7500 RPM, with a torque of 11.6 Nm. During the test ride, the engine felt exceptionally smooth, with no vibrations or roughness. It starts effortlessly and pulls confidently even with a load, thanks to its well-designed combustion system.
The bike reaches a top speed of around 85-90 km/h, which is more than adequate for city commuting. Its gear ratios are well-spaced, and the throttle response is crisp, making riding fun and engaging.
Suspension, Brakes, and Handling
Honda has equipped the Honda CB Hornet 125 with upside-down USD front shocks—a feature usually reserved for higher segments. While these shocks add to the bike’s sporty appeal, their full potential may not be realised in everyday riding. The rear monoshock, featuring preload adjustment, provides a comfortable ride by efficiently absorbing city bumps.
Braking is confident, thanks to a 240 mm front disc and a 130 mm drum brake at the rear. The ABS enhances safety, especially during sudden stops. The tyres, measuring 80/100-17 at the front and 100/80-17 at the rear, provide good grip and stability.
Comfort and Practicality
The seat is slightly stiff but offers sufficient comfort for daily rides. Its dimensions (height of approximately 597 mm) suit riders of various heights, including those with shorter legs. The bike’s dimensions—length of 2015 mm, width of 783 mm, and ground clearance of 166 mm—strike a good balance between stability and agility.
The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres, promising a decent range, especially considering Honda’s claimed mileage of around 48-55 km/l. Real-world figures may vary between 45-50 km/l, making it economical for daily use.
Thoughtful Details and Storage
Practical touches include a small storage pocket under the seat and provisions for an OBD port for diagnostics. The fibre body panels are high-quality ABS, which can withstand daily wear and tear with proper care. The tail section includes a well-designed saree guard and neatly integrated turn indicators, maintaining a clean, modern look.
Final Thoughts – A Well-Rounded Package
After extensive testing, my overall impression is highly positive. Honda has succeeded in delivering a bike that combines style, technology, and performance at an affordable price point. The TFT console, LED lighting, upside-down suspension, and refined engine make this motorcycle stand out in the crowded 125cc segment.
Rating: 8.5/10 — A near-perfect choice for daily commuters and style-conscious riders. Minor improvements, such as a softer seat or a more aggressive headlamp design, could elevate it further.
Some Bykes Details & Price
| Bike Model | Engine / Displacement | Power / Torque | Mileage / Fuel Economy | Key Features | Approx Ex-Showroom Price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TVS Raider 125 | 124.8 cc, air-cooled, 3-valve | 11.2 bhp @ 7,500 rpm, 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm BikeWale | ~ 56.7 kmpl BikeWale+1 | LED headlight, digital instrument cluster, ride modes, under-seat storage, connected variant | ₹ 83,646 – ₹ 95,366 (ex-showroom) BikeWale+1 |
| Hero Xtreme 125R | 124.7 cc | ~ 11.4 bhp (specs) BikeWale | ~ 66 kmpl (claimed) BikeWale+1 | Sporty styling, digital dash, LED lighting (in newer versions) | ₹ 90,971 (avg ex-showroom) BikeWale+1 |
| Honda SP 125 | 123.94 cc | ~ 10.72 bhp BikeWale | ~ 63 kmpl BikeWale+1 | Refined engine, smoothness, and good after-sales network | ₹ 85,855 (avg ex-showroom) BikeWale |
| Bajaj Pulsar 125 | 124.4 cc | ~ 11.64 bhp BikeWale+1 | ~ 50 kmpl BikeWale+1 | Pulsar styling, muscular design, good brand appeal | ₹ 80,004 (avg ex-showroom) BikeWale |
| Honda Shine (125 cc version) | 123.94 cc | ~ 10.59 bhp (approx) BikeWale+1 | ~ 55 kmpl BikeWale+1 | Reliable, widely serviced, simple design | ₹ 78,777 (avg ex-showroom) BikeWale |
| Honda CB 125 Hornet | 123.94 cc | ~ 10.99 bhp BikeWale | ~ 55 kmpl BikeWale | Sport naked look, modern design cues | ₹ 1,02,771 (avg ex-showroom) BikeWale+1 |
| Bajaj Pulsar NS125 | ~ 124.45 cc | ~ 11.8 bhp BikeWale+1 | ~ 46.9 kmpl (claimed) BikeWale | Aggressive styling, features in the “NS” line | ₹ 92,183 (avg ex-showroom) BikeWale |
Why Should You Consider the Honda CB Hornet 125?
If you’re seeking a stylish, tech-savvy, and efficient motorcycle for city riding, the CB Hornet 125 is worth your attention. Its modern features, Honda’s renowned engine refinement, and competitive pricing make it a compelling option.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for discounts, especially with recent GST adjustments, which have made this bike even more affordable.
READ ALSO: Ntorq 150: The Ultimate Performance Scooter
Note: For a personalised experience, test ride the Honda CB Hornet 125 and see how it fits your riding style and preferences. Happy riding!
Sajid Ahmad is an auto enthusiast and passionate blogger who loves exploring the world of cars, bikes, and emerging automobile technologies. With a deep interest in how vehicles shape everyday life, he shares insightful reviews, tips, and updates from the auto industry. Through his blog, Sajid aims to make it easier for readers to stay informed and choose the right ride for their needs
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