The Honda CB 125 Hornet 2025 is turning heads in the crowded 125cc motorcycle segment, blending sharp streetfighter styling with practical performance for urban riders.
Launched in India on August 1, 2025, this bike arrives as Honda’s bold entry into the premium commuter space, targeting young enthusiasts who crave more than just basic transportation. Priced at an introductory ex-showroom rate of Rs 1.12 lakh, the CB 125 a mix of advanced features, reliable engineering, and that signature Honda refinement.
As of October 2025, Honda’s two-wheeler sales in India reflect a robust recovery, with July figures hitting 515,378 units including exports—a 6.2% year-over-year growth in domestic sales despite an 8.65% year-to-date dip due to market volatility. The CB 125 Hornet contributes to this momentum, with early bookings surging since its debut alongside the Shine 100 DX. Globally,
Honda’s motorcycle lineup, including 125cc models, helped push fiscal year 2025 sales to a record 20.57 million units, capturing about 40% of the worldwide market. This positions the Hornet as more than a local contender, it’s part of Honda’s strategy to blend affordability with aspirational appeal in emerging markets like India.
Design and Build
At first glance, the Honda CB 125 Hornet doesn’t scream “125cc commuter.” Its muscular silhouette draws inspiration from Honda’s larger CB siblings, creating an illusion of a bigger bike perfect for riders who want that premium street presence without the premium price tag.
The angular fuel tank, sculpted side panels, and layered fairing give it a predatory stance, enhanced by golden-hued upside-down (USD) forks that add a touch of sporty flair. Available in four vibrant colors Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow, Pearl Siren Blue with Sports Red, Pearl Siren Blue with Athletic Blue Metallic, and Pearl Igneous Black the Hornet lets you express your style while turning heads on the road.
Build quality is where Honda shines, as always. The diamond-type frame ensures rigidity for confident cornering, and the overall kerb weight of 124 kg keeps it nimble for city use. The split seat measures 597mm, offering a relaxed upright posture with well-placed handlebars and footpegs that suit riders of varying heights. Pillion comfort isn’t neglected either, with grab rails and a supportive rear section for short trips.
LED lighting is standard across the board, including a twin-pod headlamp with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs) for better visibility and a modern vibe. In rainy Mumbai streets or dusty Delhi lanes, the Hornet’s weather-sealed components prove their mettle, holding up without a hitch.
What sets the design apart in 2025’s lineup is its “big-bike” illusion. Reviewers note it could easily pass for a 160cc or 200cc model, fooling onlookers and boosting rider confidence. This visual trickery, combined with overlapping panels and a compact 2,020mm wheelbase, makes it agile yet planted ideal for India’s chaotic urban traffic.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the CB 125 Hornet packs a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, BS6 Phase 2B-compliant engine tuned for real-world pep. It churns out 10.99 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm numbers that edge out siblings like the SP 125 and Shine for a sportier feel. Honda’s aggressive mapping delivers brisk acceleration, with a claimed 0-60 kmph sprint in just 5.4 seconds, outpacing most class rivals and making lane-splitting a breeze.
The five-speed gearbox is slick and intuitive, a step up from the four-speed units in competitors, allowing seamless shifts for highway jaunts up to 80 kmph without downshifting. Cruising at 50-60 kmph feels effortless, with enough mid-range grunt for overtakes.
Top speed hovers around 100 kmph, respectable for a 125cc bike focused on usability rather than outright speed. Vibrations are minimal, thanks to Honda’s refined balancing, ensuring a smooth ride even on extended 100 km outings.
Fuel efficiency stands at a user-reported 55 kmpl, translating to over 660 km on its 12.1-liter tank perfect for cost-conscious commuters. In real-world tests, it dips to 50 kmpl in aggressive city riding but rebounds to 58 kmpl on open roads. This balance of performance and economy aligns with 2025 trends, where buyers seek bikes that handle fuel price hikes without sacrificing fun.
Features Honda CB 125 2025
The Honda CB 125 Hornet isn’t just about power it’s loaded with segment-first tech that makes it feel future-proof. The star is the Bluetooth-enabled full-color TFT instrument console, displaying speed, tachometer, fuel gauge, trip meters, gear position, and time in crisp detail.
Joystick navigation lets you toggle settings effortlessly, while Honda RoadSync integration pairs with your smartphone for calls, SMS alerts, navigation, and music streaming. A USB Type-C port keeps devices charged, a boon for navigation-dependent riders.
Safety gets a boost with single-channel ABS on the 276mm front disc brake, paired with a 130mm rear drum for progressive stopping power. The IMU-managed system shines in wet conditions, preventing lockups during panic stops. Additional aids like a side-stand alarm, low battery indicator, and pass light enhance peace of mind. All-LED turn signals and hazard lights round out the package, ensuring visibility in low-light traffic.
These features aren’t gimmicks—they elevate daily rides. Imagine glancing at turn-by-turn directions without fumbling for your phone, or receiving call alerts hands-free. In a segment often skimping on tech, the Hornet’s connectivity positions it as a smart choice for Gen Z riders glued to their gadgets.
Ride and Handling
Handling is the CB 125 Hornet’s secret weapon. The golden USD forks up front absorb potholes with composure, while the preload-adjustable rear monoshock maintains balance over undulations. At 124 kg, it’s light enough for easy maneuvering but stable at speed, thanks to 17-inch alloy wheels shod in grippy MRF tires (80/100 front, 110/80 rear). Reviewers praise its planted feel in corners, with communicative chassis feedback that encourages spirited riding without intimidation.
Ergonomics suit a wide audience: the 790mm seat height accommodates shorter riders, and the neutral riding triangle reduces fatigue on 50 km commutes. Braking is confident—the front disc bites progressively, modulated by ABS for controlled halts from 60 kmph in under 20 meters. On twisty ghat roads or straight highways, the Hornet instills trust, proving it’s no fair-weather friend.
Mileage and Maintenance
With ARAI-certified mileage around 55 kmpl and real-world figures matching closely, the CB 125 Hornet keeps running costs low expect Rs 1.50-2 per km in fuel alone. Its 12.1-liter tank means fewer pit stops, ideal for India’s vast urban sprawl. Maintenance follows Honda’s gold standard: service intervals every 6,000 km, with affordable parts and widespread service networks. The air-cooled engine requires minimal upkeep, and the five-speed setup reduces wear from constant shifting.
In 2025, where fuel efficiency drives buying decisions amid rising prices, the Hornet’s economy without compromise makes it a smart long-term pick. Owners report negligible breakdowns, underscoring Honda’s legendary reliability.
Price and Value
At Rs 1.12 lakh ex-showroom (introductory, Gurugram), the CB 125 Hornet undercuts some rivals while packing more premium kit. On-road prices in Delhi hit Rs 1.19 lakh, including insurance and taxes, with EMI options starting at Rs 4,088 monthly.
Festive October 2025 offers sweeten the deal, with up to Rs 8,000 discounts post-GST tweaks. Compared to the TVS Raider 125 (Rs 95,000-1.10 lakh) or Hero Xtreme 125R (Rs 97,000), the Hornet justifies its premium with USD forks, TFT display, and ABS—features absent in many peers.
Value shines in resale potential; Honda’s 45% share in India’s 125cc market ensures strong demand for used models. For Rs 1.12 lakh, you’re getting a bike that feels like Rs 1.5 lakh territory, backed by a three-year warranty.