As Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India celebrates its 25th anniversary, the company has unveiled the all-new CB125 Hornet, a sporty 125cc streetfighter aimed squarely at urban youth and design-conscious riders. Scheduled for booking from 1 August 2025, the Hornet is poised to challenge segment stalwarts such as the Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider 125, and Bajaj Pulsar N125.
1. Head-Turning Design & Dynamic Styling
The CB125 Hornet makes a statement with a punchy streetfighter aesthetic: a sharp front fascia with twin LED headlamps and DRLs, high-mounted LED turn indicators, and muscular shrouds wrapped around a sculpted fuel tank. A short, stylised muffler and split-seat setup underscore its sporty intent.
A unique design detail: the ignition key is mounted on the fuel tank, offering flair and convenience. Complementing the aggressive look are multi-spoke alloy wheels and four bold dual-tone colour options:
- Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow
- Pearl Igneous Black
- Pearl Siren Blue with Athletic Blue Metallic
- Pearl Siren Blue with Sports Red.
2. Engine & Performance: Swift and Agile
At its core, the CB125 Hornet houses a 123.94 cc, single-cylinder fuel-injected engine (also used in the SP 125 and Shine 125), tuned to deliver 11 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, it achieves a claimed 0–60 km/h sprint in just 5.4 seconds, positioning it as the fastest bike in its class. Honda reports a lightweight kerb weight of just 124 kg, boosting ride agility.
3. Segment-First Hardware: Premium Underpinnings
Setting a new benchmark, the Hornet debuts golden USD (upside‑down) forks in its segment—providing enhanced rigidity and better high-speed control. Ride quality is further refined with a 5-step adjustable mono-shock at the rear.
Braking is handled by a 240mm petal disc upfront and a 130mm rear drum, supported by single-channel ABS for rider safety. It rides on 80/100‑17 front and 110/80‑17 rear tubeless tyres, offering solid grip and handling.
4. Tech & Features: Smart and Connected
The CB125 Hornet is gear‑loaded with a 4.2-inch TFT display featuring Bluetooth connectivity via Honda’s RoadSync app. Riders can access turn-by-turn navigation, call/message alerts, and music controls via handlebar-mounted switches.
Convenience also extends to a USB Type-C charging port, an engine stop switch, and a side-stand engine inhibitor for added safety and ease of use. The display includes digital readouts for speed, trip meter, service due, and more.
5. Competition & Segment Impact
With its launch, Honda enters the fiercely competitive 125cc premium commuter space, dominated by models like the Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider 125, and Bajaj Pulsar N125. While the others have a strong hold, the Hornet distinguishes itself with advanced styling, segment-first hardware, and standout performance.
Analysts suggest Honda’s goal is to “redefine the 125cc premium commuter space”, appealing to Gen Z riders craving sporty looks and connected tech without compromising fuel efficiency or daily usability.
6. Pricing, Booking & Expected Deliveries
Booking for the CB125 Hornet begins on 1 August 2025, with official pricing expected around the same date. Industry chatter places the ex-showroom price in the range of ₹1.20 lakh to ₹1.40 lakh, positioning it as a premium yet accessible option in the segment.
7. Final Thoughts: Why the CB125 Hornet Matters
The CB125 Hornet underscores Honda’s bid to reclaim relevance in the sporty commuter space. With its aggressive streetfighter aesthetics, modern tech, lightweight chassis, and brand confidence, it is poised to resonate with younger riders seeking identity through their ride.
By combining Honda’s reputation for reliability with segment‑first features like golden USD forks and a full-colour TFT dash, the Hornet has real potential to redefine expectations in the 125cc class — especially if pricing hits the sweet spot.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 123.94 cc FI, 11 bhp @ 7,500 rpm, 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Performance | 0–60 km/h in 5.4 sec; kerb weight 124 kg |
| Suspension | Segment-first golden USD forks; 5-step mono-shock |
| Brakes | 240 mm front disc, 130 mm rear drum, single‑channel ABS |
| Wheels & Tyres | 17″ alloys; 80/100 front, 110/80 rear tubeless tyres |
| Features | 4.2″ TFT display with Bluetooth/RoadSync; USB‑C charger; safety switches |
| Colours | Four dual-tone shades |
| Booking | Starts 1 August 2025 |
| Expected Price | ₹1.20 L–1.40 L (ex‑showroom) |
| Competitors | Hero Xtreme 125R, TVS Raider 125, Bajaj Pulsar N125 |
As Honda prepares to officially release more details, the CB125 Hornet already signals a strategic shift—a bold entry aimed at riders who want performance, style, and connectivity packaged in one nimble 125cc machine. Stay tuned for pricing and full ride reviews once bookings open.
Hello, my name is Himanshu Kumar and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 4 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
