Honda Hornet CB125 Review: Design, Performance, Price and India Launch Details

The Hornet CB125 is Honda’s small streetfighter that looks big in attitude. It’s made for young riders who want style, comfort, and fuel savings in one neat package. The design feels sharp, like it’s cut from a bigger bike. The riding stance is easy. The sound from the exhaust is soft but confident. The Hornet CB125 doesn’t scream for attention. It earns it quietly. It’s the kind of bike you’d love to ride daily, whether to college or work, without feeling dull for a moment.
 

Hornet CB125 Quick Info

Design and Looks

The Hornet CB125 has presence. It looks strong from every side. The fuel tank is big and muscular, the LED headlight has attitude, and the lines on the body give it a fast look even when parked. It borrows its style from the CB series, and that’s a good thing. The rear is short and clean, with a tidy tail lamp setup. The wide handlebar gives you control, and the seating feels natural. You sit upright but ready to ride. It feels like Honda made it for both young hearts and calm minds. Walk past it once, and you’ll look back again.

Engine, Performance andMileage

The heart of the Hornet CB125 is a smooth 124.7cc motor. It’s not loud. It’s not lazy either. Twist the throttle and it pulls neatly through all five gears. The clutch is soft, gearshifts are clean, and the throttle response feels instant. In city traffic, it glides easily. The engine doesn’t vibrate much even near 90 km/h. It’s made for daily riders who want reliability more than drama. The power feels just right for a beginner. You can expect around 55 to 60 km/l, depending on how you ride. It’s a simple, honest motor that delivers quietly every day without asking much in return.
 

Features and Technology

The Hornet CB125 is small in size but rich in features. It comes with a full digital console that shows speed, gear position, fuel, trip and even mileage data. Everything is clear, easy to read. The LED lights at the front and back give it a premium edge. The bike uses single-channel ABS for safety and offers disc and drum options for the rear. The switchgear feels solid to touch. Honda might also add a smart key system later, which could make the package even cooler. Every small thing is done neatly, no cheap shortcuts here. It feels well put together, just like every other Honda.

Price and Variants

The Hornet CB125 will likely come in two variants. One standard with drum brakes and another deluxe with rear disc. The difference will be small but noticeable. Expect the price between ₹1.10 to ₹1.20 lakh. A little higher than regular commuters, but then it’s not a regular bike. It’s a mini street machine meant for those who love a bit of thrill in their routine. Honda always prices things smartly, so it should feel worth the money once you ride it.
 

Launch Date and Availability in India

The Hornet CB125 is expected to reach Indian showrooms by mid 2025. Honda might show it first at the Auto Expo or through a digital launch. Testing has already begun in a few Asian markets, and India won’t have to wait long. The bike will be sold through both regular and BigWing outlets. Honda may also bring easy EMI and low down payment offers to attract young riders. It feels like the company knows this bike can become a hit if priced right and promoted smartly.
 

Competitors and Comparison

The Hornet CB125 won’t have an easy road. It will face strong rivals like the TVS Raider 125, Bajaj Pulsar NS125 and Hero Glamour Xtec. The Raider is quick, fun and loaded with features. The NS125 feels raw and energetic. The Hornet, on the other hand, is calm and premium. It’s built with quality that lasts longer. It may not win drag races, but it wins on refinement and smoothness. That’s where Honda’s charm lies not in numbers, but in feel. It’s the kind of bike you’d choose if you want peace with performance.

Expert Opinion / Conclusion

The Hornet CB125 stands for balance. It’s stylish yet simple. Sporty yet sensible. It’s a bike that grows on you every day. The engine refinement is the star here, followed by the build quality. It rides smooth, stops quick and handles city bumps without complaint. If you’re moving up from a 100cc or want your first bike that looks cool and runs easy, this is the one. It could have had more power, sure, but for daily life, it fits just right. The Hornet CB125 is that quiet friend who doesn’t brag but always shows up on time reliable, steady and full of character.

Read also: Related Article]