We all know Honda as a simple brand that focuses on getting the basics right without going too bold. But that doesn’t mean it can’t go bold every now and then. Proving just that is the company’s newest commuter bike: the CB125 Hornet. It brings a breath of fresh air in an otherwise boring segment by combining modern-day features, peppy performance, and likable looks. Let’s dive in.
The New Honda CB125 Hornet Takes Design Inspiration From The CB1000 Hornet
Most small Honda commuter bikes have a really simple design, with barely any resemblance to the bigger flagship offerings. But the CB125 Hornet changes that. Up top, there’s an aggressive headlight, which mimics the CB1000 Hornet SP. This, along with the muscular cowling, helps it look sharp from the side. ‘Sharp’ is also how you can define other design aspects. The tank has edgy side shrouds, the tail has sleek plastics, and the exhaust has a slash-cut shape. Rounding things off is a set of punchy colorways to choose from listed below.
Honda CB125 Hornet Colors
- Pearl Igneous Black (golden wheels)
- Lemon Ice Yellow (neon yellow wheels)
- Athletic Blue Metallic (blue wheels)
- Sports Red (red wheels)
Oodles Of Features Make The CB125 Hornet Thoroughly Modern
Like the design, the CB125 hits the mark in the features department. A crisp 4.2-inch TFT sits as the centerpiece–similar to what you get on the 650s. It comes with two display modes and shows a plethora of information (live range, distance to empty, two trip meters, gear position, eco riding indicator). Other than this, you get smartphone connectivity via Honda’s RoadSync app, USB Type-C port, ABS (single-channel), and all-LED lights.
Honda CB125 Hornet Key Features
- 4.2-inch TFT
- Smartphone connectivity
- ABS
- All-LED lights
- Type-C port
High-Quality Suspension And Punchy Engine Complete The CB125 Hornet’s Package
Under the edgy body, the CB125 is said to have an all-new steel chassis. It suspends on Showa USD forks and a Showa monoshock, both of which are quite premium by 125cc standards. This is topped with 17-inch alloy wheels, where the front has a petal rotor to shed speed. The rear has a drum brake, similar to what we see on the CB125F sold in Europe. All this while, the entire package weighs just 273 pounds. That, along with the 11-horsepower single-cylinder engine, enables a zero to 40 mph time of around 6 seconds.
The CB125 Hornet Is Not Coming To The West Anytime Soon
Like what you see? Then, we suggest you buckle up. That’s because the CB125 Hornet is currently an India-only product by the Japanese giant. It’s neither sold in any other Asian market nor in any other market as of now. This is certainly a missed opportunity, considering the baby Hornet certainly isn’t lacking potential to find takers in the entry-level space. It could be the perfect thing for Gen Alpha riders!
Honda CB125 Hornet Power And Torque
|
Engine |
123.9cc, single-cylinder |
|
Power |
11 HP @ 7,500 RPM |
|
Torque |
8 LB-FT @ 6,000 RPM |
|
Transmission |
Five-speed |
|
0 to 60 kph (37 MPH) |
5.4 seconds |
|
Weight |
273 pounds |
|
Seat height |
NA |
Read the full article here