Bookings for the Honda CB125 Hornet will commence on August 1, 2025, ahead of the price announcement, to rival the TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R.
Imagine cruising through the city streets on a nimble and stylish motorcycle that turns heads every time you pass by. That’s exactly what Honda aims to deliver with its upcoming CB125 Hornet. Born from a long line of popular Honda Hornets, this new 125cc model carries forward the legacy of fun, flair, and fuel efficiency.
The Hornet name first became famous in the late 1990s, winning hearts with its naked‑bike styling and strong performance. Now, over two decades later, Honda is set to revive the Hornet spirit for riders who want a friendly, easy‑to‑handle bike without sacrificing looks or modern features. As we eagerly await its arrival in the coming weeks, let’s dive into what makes the CB125 Hornet special and what prices you can expect.
Honda CB125 Hornet: Engine and Performance
Under the CB125 Hornet’s sleek body lies a 123.1 cc single‑cylinder engine that promises smooth power delivery and excellent mileage. Honda’s engineers have tuned this motor to offer about 10.5 PS of peak power and 10.9 Nm of peak torque. In simple terms, that means you get enough grunt to zip through traffic lights, tackle gentle highway stretches, and enjoy light weekend rides.
Honda is famous for its refined engines, and the CB125 Hornet is no exception. The engine features fuel injection for better throttle response and consistent performance, even at higher altitudes or in hot weather. Thanks to its lightweight chassis and a kerb weight of around 123 kg, the bike feels lively and doesn’t bog down under city stop‑and‑go conditions.
What truly impresses is the claimed mileage. With Honda’s efficient tuning and a streamlined riding posture, you can expect around 60 kmpl under normal riding. For daily commuters, this translates to fewer fuel stops and lower running costs. Overall, the CB125 Hornet strikes a fine balance between fun‑factor and frugality, making it an excellent choice for both new riders and seasoned commuters.
Honda CB125 Hornet: Design and Features
One glance at the CB125 Hornet tells you this bike is built for style. Its muscular fuel tank, compact LED headlamp, and sharp body panels give it a sporty edge. Honda has borrowed design cues from its larger Hornet siblings, such as the sculpted tank extensions and split LED tail lamp, creating a look that’s both menacing and modern.
On the tech front, the CB125 Hornet comes loaded. A fully digital LCD instrument cluster displays speed, fuel level, gear position, trip meter, and a real‑time mileage readout. The handlebar‑mounted switchgear is intuitive, with a pass‑light button to flash the high beam. The LED headlamp offers bright and consistent illumination, while the tail lamp adds a futuristic touch.
Comfort has not been forgotten. The seat is tuned for a slightly sporty posture, but it remains cushioned enough for longer rides. The pillion seat sits a bit higher, giving your passenger a clear view ahead and a sense of space. Suspensions include telescopic front forks and a rear mono‑shock, both calibrated for a mix of comfort and control. Braking is handled by a single disc both at front and rear, with dual‑channel ABS for added safety.
Honda CB125 Hornet: Variants and Expected Pricing
Honda usually offers its CB series in different variants to suit varied rider needs. The CB125 Hornet is expected to launch in two trims: Standard and Deluxe. The Standard trim will include all basic features—LED lighting, digital console, and ABS—while the Deluxe trim may add features like clip‑on handlebars, USD forks, and colored alloy wheels.
When it comes to pricing, industry insiders suggest the CB125 Hornet will sit between ₹1.20 lakh and ₹1.35 lakh (ex‑showroom, Delhi). The Standard trim should be closer to ₹1.20 lakh, making it highly competitive against rivals. The Deluxe trim, with its extra bells and whistles, might cost around ₹1.30–1.35 lakh.
Considering how feature‑packed and stylish the Hornet looks, this price range puts it in a sweet spot for urban riders and weekend adventurers alike. Pair this with Honda’s wide service network and strong resale value, and you have a compelling package that’s hard to ignore.
Honda CB125 Hornet
| Feature / Model | Honda CB125 Hornet | Honda CB125F | Yamaha FZ‑S FI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 123.1 cc, FI, 10.5 PS | 123.1 cc, FI, 10.6 PS | 149 cc, FI, 13.2 PS |
| Torque | 10.9 Nm | 10.9 Nm | 12.8 Nm |
| Mileage | ~60 kmpl | ~63 kmpl | ~45 kmpl |
| Kerb Weight | ~123 kg | ~121 kg | ~140 kg |
| Brakes | Disc‑Disc, Dual‑channel ABS | Disc‑Disc, Dual‑channel ABS | Disc‑Disc, Dual‑channel ABS |
| Suspension | Telescopic / Mono‑shock | Telescopic / Mono‑shock | Telescopic / Mono‑shock |
| Instrument Console | Fully digital LCD | Fully digital LCD | Fully digital LCD |
| Expected Price (Ex‑Delhi) | ₹1.20–1.35 lakh | ₹1.10–1.20 lakh | ₹1.25–1.40 lakh |
Honda CB125 Hornet: Conclusion
The Honda CB125 Hornet is shaping up to be a standout choice for riders who want a blend of style, performance, and value. With its modern design, efficient engine, and rich feature list, it promises a fresh take on the 125cc segment. Whether you’re a daily commuter seeking comfort and mileage or a young rider craving sporty flair, the Hornet has something for you. Keep an eye on official announcements, as Honda will soon confirm the launch date and prices. Until then, gear up for an exciting addition to India’s motorcycle market!
FAQ
Q1. When will the Honda CB125 Hornet launch?
A: The CB125 Hornet is expected to launch in the coming weeks. Honda will likely announce the exact date soon.
Q2. What is the expected ex‑showroom price?
A: Prices are said to start around ₹1.20 lakh for the Standard trim and go up to ₹1.35 lakh for the Deluxe trim (ex‑showroom, Delhi).
Q3. How fuel‑efficient is the CB125 Hornet?
A: The Hornet is claimed to deliver around 60 kmpl in mixed riding conditions.
Q4. Does it come with ABS?
A: Yes, the CB125 Hornet will have dual‑channel ABS as a standard safety feature.
Q5. What colors will it be available in?
A: Honda typically offers multiple color options. Expect a mix of vibrant shades and classic matt finishes.
