Think of a bike that looks super cool, has neat tech, and is fun to ride without costing a lot. That’s the Honda CB125 Hornet, launched in India this July 2025 to celebrate 25 years of Honda here. Bookings start August 1, and it’s already making people excited. Whether you’re dodging traffic in Bengaluru or riding in California, this 125cc bike is ready to impress. Let’s check out what makes it so great.
A New Favorite in India’s 125cc World
Honda is a top name in India’s 125cc market, with a 45% share according to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) 2025 data. But the CB125 Hornet is different—it’s for young riders who love sporty bikes, like the TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R. It was shown on July 23, 2025, with the Shine 100 DX, and its fun look is perfect for Gen-Z riders who want style and speed.
A Design That Grabs Attention
The CB125 Hornet stands out with its twin-LED headlights and Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that make it look bold. The strong fuel tank with cool covers, a smooth muffler, and a split seat add style and comfort. You can choose from four bright colors: Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow, Pearl Igneous Black, Pearl Siren Blue with Athletic Blue Metallic, and Pearl Siren Blue with Sports Red. The key slot on the tank looks nice and is easy to use.
Honda CB125 Hornet Power for City Rides
It has a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine, upgraded from the Shine 125. It gives 11.14 PS at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm, with a 5-speed gearbox. It zooms from 0 to 60 km/h in 5.4 seconds—the fastest in its group, says Honda. At 124 kg with a 12-liter fuel tank, it’s light and easy to handle in busy cities. It follows BS6 Phase 2B rules and uses E20 fuel, which is good for India’s environment.
Cool Tech on the Bike
This bike isn’t just pretty—it’s smart! A 4.2-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth links to Honda’s RoadSync app, so you can use maps, take calls, or play music with a headset. The left handlebar has simple controls, and extras like a USB Type-C port, engine kill switch, and side-stand cut-off keep you safe and comfy. All-LED lights help you be seen, whether in India’s cities or U.S. towns.
Easy Rides and Safe Brakes
Honda made it ride smooth. It has golden USD front forks—the first in its class—and a 5-step adjustable back shock for a comfy trip, even on bumpy roads. Brakes include a 240mm petal disc in front and a 130mm drum at the back, with single-channel ABS to stop safely. The 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tires (80/100 front, 110/80 rear) give good grip for India’s roads or U.S. highways.
Price and When You Can Get It
The price isn’t out yet, but experts think it’ll be ₹95,000 to ₹1,00,000 (ex-showroom) in India when bookings start August 1, 2025. Deliveries might begin mid-August or early September. In the USA, where 125cc bikes are popular for city rides and new riders—sales were 120,000 units in 2024 per the Motorcycle Industry Council—it could cost $2,000–$2,500, though Honda hasn’t confirmed it. It’ll compete with the TVS Raider 125 (₹97,000) and Hero Xtreme 125R (₹96,000).
How It Compares to Other Bikes
The CB125 Hornet has strong rivals. The TVS Raider 125 has a 124.8cc engine with 11.38 PS and hits 0–60 km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Hero Xtreme 125R gives 11.55 PS with a sporty feel. The Hornet stands out with its golden forks and TFT screen, which others don’t have. It should get 50–55 kmpl, close to the Raider’s 60 kmpl test claim, though real rides may differ.
The Future of City Riding
This bike shows Honda is trying new things in the 125cc world, mixing power with low cost. For Indian riders, it’s a chance to own a cool bike affordably. In the USA, it might bring more models if people love it. X posts are buzzing, with fans calling it “super fast” and “Gen-Z cool.” With electric bikes growing, its fuel savings and tech could keep it popular.
Is the CB125 Hornet Right for You?
The Honda CB125 Hornet is more than a bike—it’s a fun choice. With its cool look, smart features, and good price, it’s great for young riders in India and the USA who want a fun, practical ride. Whether you’re in Pune’s traffic or San Francisco’s streets, it’s ready to go. Book it on August 1, 2025, and join the two-wheel fun. Ready to ride?
