The Honda CB125 Hornet has officially launched in India, marking the beginning of a new wave of two-wheeler releases this August. With a bold design, advanced features, and a powerful engine, this 125cc bike is already drawing attention. Honda has positioned it as a premium offering in its 125cc lineup, placing it just above the popular Shine and SP 125.
Bold Styling with Modern Design
The CB125 Hornet is built to turn heads. Its sharp design, sleek body lines, and aggressive styling give it a distinct road presence. The bike comes with an all-LED lighting setup, including a signature twin-LED headlamp with LED DRLs and high-mounted LED turn indicators.
Its side profile is equally impressive. A muscular fuel tank with sharp tank shrouds and a stylish muffler enhances its sporty appearance. The bike will be available in four unique dual-tone color options, including Lemon Ice Yellow with Pearl Siren Blue, Pearl Igneous Black, Athletic Blue Metallic with Pearl Siren Blue, and Sports Red with Pearl Siren Blue.
Performance That Packs a Punch
At its heart, the Honda CB125 Hornet features a 123.94cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine. This engine produces 11 horsepower and 11.2Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. According to Honda, it’s the fastest bike in its segment, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
This makes it not only quick in city traffic but also fun to ride on open roads. Whether you’re commuting daily or taking a weekend ride, the performance promises to keep things exciting.
Tech Features That Stand Out
One of the key highlights of the CB125 Hornet is its feature-rich instrument cluster. It comes with a 4.2-inch TFT display that supports Bluetooth connectivity and works with the Honda RoadSync app. Riders can access navigation, receive call and SMS alerts, and control music playback—all from the screen.
The display is easy to manage using a switch located on the left handlebar. Honda has also added a universal USB Type-C charging port, allowing riders to charge their devices on the go.
In terms of safety, the bike includes an engine stop switch, a side-stand engine inhibitor, and a side-stand indicator. These are thoughtful additions that enhance rider safety and convenience.
Segment-First Suspension Setup
The CB125 Hornet is the first bike in its segment to feature upside-down (USD) front forks, offering improved handling and stability. At the rear, it comes equipped with a 5-step adjustable mono-shock absorber, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride on different terrains.
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Premium Touches and Braking System
To add to its premium feel, the ignition key slot is positioned on the fuel tank—something usually seen in higher-end motorcycles. For braking, the bike features a 240mm front petal disc and a 130mm rear drum brake. It also includes a single-channel ABS system for enhanced safety.
The bike rides on wide tubeless tyres—80/100-17 at the front and 110/80-17 at the rear—offering better road grip and confidence during cornering. These elements work together to deliver a stable and secure riding experience.
Final Thoughts
The Honda CB125 Hornet blends style, technology, and performance into one exciting package. It brings premium features typically reserved for higher-end bikes into the 125cc segment, making it an appealing option for both new and experienced riders. With a starting price of ₹1.12 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers excellent value for those looking for a stylish, feature-loaded commuter. Bookings have already opened as of August 1, 2025—so if you’re in the market for a new bike, this one is worth a serious look.
