The wait is finally over! Honda has unleashed its most aggressive 125cc machine yet – the CB 125 Hornet. Priced at just ₹1.12 lakh, this street-naked beast promises to shake up India’s competitive 125cc segment with premium features that were previously unimaginable in this category.
What Makes the Honda CB 125 Hornet Special?
Game-Changing Performance
Honda isn’t playing around with the CB 125 Hornet’s performance credentials. The 123.94cc single-cylinder engine delivers an impressive 11.14 PS at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, making it the quickest 125cc motorcycle in its segment. The numbers speak for themselves – 0-60 kmph in just 5.4 seconds puts it ahead of every competitor.
Industry-First Premium Hardware
What truly sets the CB 125 Hornet apart is its 37mm golden-colored USD (upside-down) front forks – a feature you won’t find on any other 125cc motorcycle in India. Paired with a 5-step preload-adjustable rear monoshock, the suspension setup promises superior handling and ride quality that rivals bikes from higher segments.
Technology That Connects
Smart Display and Connectivity
The 4.2-inch TFT display isn’t just for show. Connected via Honda’s RoadSync app, riders get:
- Turn-by-turn navigation for hassle-free commuting
- Call and SMS alerts without touching your phone
- Music control for the perfect riding soundtrack
- USB Type-C charging port to keep devices powered
Safety First Approach
Honda hasn’t compromised on safety, equipping the CB 125 Hornet with single-channel ABS as standard. The braking setup features a 240mm petal disc at the front and a 130mm drum brake at the rear, ensuring confident stopping power.
Design Language That Commands Attention
The CB 125 Hornet borrows its aggressive street-naked DNA from Honda’s larger Hornet family. Key design highlights include:
- Sharp, angular tank shrouds that scream performance
- Twin LED headlamp setup with integrated DRLs
- Clean, minimalist tail section
- All-LED lighting throughout
Color Options to Match Your Style
Choose from four striking color combinations:
- Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow – Bold and vibrant
- Pearl Igneous Black – Classic and timeless
- Pearl Siren Blue with Athletic Blue Metallic – Sporty elegance
- Pearl Siren Blue with Sports Red – Racing-inspired
Market Impact and Competition
Honda’s Strategic Positioning
At ₹1.12 lakh (ex-showroom), the CB 125 Hornet becomes Honda’s flagship 125cc offering, sitting above the popular SP125 and Shine series. This positioning targets riders who want premium features without stepping into the 150cc+ segment.
Taking on the Competition
The CB 125 Hornet directly challenges:
- TVS Raider 125 – Currently leading the sporty 125cc space
- Hero Xtreme 125R – Another performance-focused option
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125 – The established sporty commuter
With Honda already commanding a 45% market share in the 125cc segment, the CB 125 Hornet is positioned to further strengthen this dominance.
Launch Timeline and Availability
Key Dates:
- July 23, 2025: Official unveiling
- August 1, 2025: India launch and booking commencement
- Mid-August 2025: Deliveries begin nationwide
Why the CB 125 Hornet Matters
The Honda CB 125 Hornet represents more than just another motorcycle launch – it’s a paradigm shift in the 125cc segment. By offering premium features like USD forks, TFT display, and Bluetooth connectivity at this price point, Honda is forcing competitors to rethink their strategies.
For riders, this means unprecedented value – getting features typically found on 200cc+ bikes in an affordable, efficient 125cc package. Whether you’re a daily commuter looking for excitement or a weekend warrior seeking urban thrills, the CB 125 Hornet promises to deliver.
The question isn’t whether the CB 125 Hornet will succeed – it’s how quickly competitors will scramble to match its feature-rich proposition.