Honda CB 125 Hornet 2025 India Launch: Everything You Need to Know

Honda has launched the CB 125 Hornet (2025) in India, marking its entry into the growing premium 125cc motorcycle segment. The model brings the brand’s sporty Hornet DNA into a more compact, commuter-friendly format. With youth-focused styling, modern features, and efficient performance, the new CB 125 Hornet is aimed at college students, young professionals, and city riders looking for an entry-level street motorcycle that stands out.

Positioned below the CB 160 and Hornet 2.0, the 125 Hornet brings sport bike-inspired looks, refined performance, and Honda’s dependable engineering to the lightweight commuter class. The launch reflects Honda’s broader push to attract urban two-wheeler buyers who want a blend of style, affordability, and practicality.

Quick Summary Table

Design and Styling

The 2025 Honda CB 125 Hornet features a sharp and aggressive design that mirrors its larger siblings. It combines the essence of a premium streetfighter with commuter-friendly ergonomics. The muscular tank, edgy panels, and all-LED lighting contribute to a dynamic urban appearance.

Design Highlights

• Sculpted fuel tank with shrouds

• LED headlamp and tail light

• Compact yet muscular proportions

• Split seat setup (variant dependent)

• Sporty dual-tone graphics

• Alloy wheels with machine-cut finish

Despite being a 125cc bike, the CB 125 Hornet delivers the road presence of a larger machine, making it appealing for first-time buyers who value design.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the CB 125 Hornet is a newly refined 124.8cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, tuned for smooth power delivery and high efficiency. Compliant with BS6 Phase 2 (OBD-2) emission norms, this engine is ideal for urban commuting and occasional highway use.

Engine Specs

• Displacement: 124.8cc

• Cooling: Air-cooled

• Power: 11.2 bhp @ 8,500 rpm

• Torque: 10.4 Nm @ 6,000 rpm

• Gearbox: 5-speed manual transmission

• Fuel System: PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)

This powertrain strikes a balance between usable low-end torque and efficient fuel consumption. Throttle response is linear, and gear shifts are smooth, making it an excellent bike for traffic-dense urban areas.

Chassis, Suspension, and Ride Comfort

The Honda CB 125 Hornet uses a diamond-type frame that prioritizes nimble handling and stability. The suspension setup has been calibrated to manage Indian road conditions effectively while maintaining sporty characteristics.

Suspension

• Front: Telescopic forks

• Rear: Hydraulic monoshock (adjustable)

Brakes

• Front: 240 mm disc

• Rear: 130 mm drum or disc (variant-wise)

• Braking System: CBS (Combi-Braking System)

Tyres

• Front: 80/100-17

• Rear: 100/90-17

• Tyre Type: Tubeless

The setup ensures confident braking and good grip, even under sudden maneuvers or quick stops.

Features and Technology

The 2025 CB 125 Hornet brings a range of segment-leading features aimed at enhancing safety, usability, and visual appeal.

Feature Highlights

• Full LED lighting system

• Digital LCD instrument cluster with real-time fuel consumption

• Engine start/stop switch

• Side-stand engine cut-off

• Gear position indicator

• Hazard light function

• Battery and service alerts (OBD-2 functionality)

While it doesn’t offer smartphone connectivity or Bluetooth, the instrumentation is modern, clear, and informative.

Mileage and Efficiency

Fuel economy is one of the strong suits of the Honda CB 125 Hornet. Thanks to Honda’s esp. (Enhanced Smart Power) technology and fuel-injection system, the bike delivers impressive mileage figures.

Claimed Mileage: 55-60 km/l

Real-World Mileage: 50-55 km/l (city use)

The tank capacity of approximately 11 liters allows for extended commutes without frequent refueling, making it ideal for daily riders.

Price and Variants

The CB 125 Hornet is expected to launch in two variants, differentiated mainly by braking hardware and seat configuration.

Expected Price (Ex-showroom India):

• Base Variant (Disc-Drum): ₹98,000

• Top Variant (Disc-Disc with Split Seat): ₹1.05 lakh

Actual pricing may vary slightly based on region and dealership offers. Bookings are expected to open by early August 2025.

Competition and Rivals

The 125cc segment is crowded but still growing, especially in the premium commuter class. The Honda CB 125 Hornet faces stiff competition from:

• TVS Raider 125

• Hero Xtreme 125R

• Bajaj Pulsar NS 125

• Yamaha Saluto RX (discontinued, but niche overlap)

Honda differentiates itself by offering a refined engine, sporty styling, and brand reliability. However, the Raider 125 still leads in terms of connected features and slightly higher power.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Attractive and sporty design

• Reliable engine with smooth power delivery

• High fuel efficiency

• Honda’s trusted build quality

• Segment-leading LED and digital features

Cons

• Lacks smartphone connectivity

• No rear mono-shock (still uses conventional setup)

• Performance-focused buyers may find it underpowered

• Slightly premium pricing for a 125cc motorcycle

FAQs: 2025 Honda CB 125 Hornet

1. What is the price of the 2025 Honda CB 125 Hornet in India?

A. The expected ex-showroom price ranges from ₹98,000 to ₹1.05 lakh, depending on the variant.

2. What is the mileage of the CB 125 Hornet?

A. Claimed mileage is between 55 to 60 km/l. In real-world usage, it delivers around 50-55 km/l in city conditions.

3. Is the CB 125 Hornet good for beginners?

A. Yes, it is well-suited for beginners thanks to its smooth engine, lightweight design, and rider-friendly ergonomics.

4. Does the CB 125 Hornet have a digital instrument cluster?

A. Yes, it comes with a fully digital LCD instrument cluster featuring fuel efficiency, gear position, and trip info.

5. Does the bike offer Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity?

A. No, the CB 125 Hornet does not have Bluetooth or app-based features at launch.

6. What colors are available for the CB 125 Hornet?

A. Honda is expected to offer at least three color options, including Matte Red, Metallic Grey, and Sporty Blue.

7. Where can I book the Honda CB 125 Hornet?

A. Bookings will be available on www.hondabigwing.in or at authorized Honda dealerships nationwide.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Honda CB 125 Hornet is a well-rounded motorcycle built for Indian urban riders who want more than just a basic commuter. It brings a touch of premium styling, impressive mileage, and trusted Honda performance into the 125cc category. While it may not be the most powerful in its class, it excels in daily usability, quality, and value.

If you are a first-time motorcycle buyer or upgrading from a scooter, the CB 125 Hornet offers the right mix of style, economy, and comfort with Honda’s backing.

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