🏁 Honda CB125 Hornet launched in India! See how it compares with TVS Raider 125 & Hero Xtreme 125R in price, features, mileage & design.
The 125cc bike war just got serious. Honda has finally lifted the curtain on its much-anticipated CB125 Hornet in India — and it’s aimed squarely at TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R. With sporty styling, a trusted engine platform, and the Honda badge backing it up, the CB125 Hornet is set to ignite fresh excitement in the commuter-sport segment.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- 🆕 Honda CB125 Hornet features & specs
- ⚔️ How it stacks up against TVS Raider & Hero Xtreme 125R
- 📈 Pricing & launch strategy
- 💬 First impressions & expert opinions
- 🧠 Should you buy this over other 125cc options?
🛠️ Honda CB125 Hornet: What’s New?
Honda’s Hornet series has always stood for muscular design and sporty performance, and the new CB125 Hornet continues that DNA in a smaller, more affordable avatar.
📸 Design Highlights:
- Aggressive LED headlamp inspired by the Hornet 2.0
- Muscular fuel tank with sharp extensions
- Compact tail section with LED tail-lamp
- Split-style seat & sporty grab rails
- Premium paint schemes like matte black, metallic red & grey
💡 Visual appeal is clearly targeted at young riders and college-goers who want a stylish ride under ₹1 lakh.
⚙️ Engine & Performance: Reliable Honda Heart
| Specification | CB125 Hornet |
|---|---|
| Engine | 124cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled |
| Power | ~11.2 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | ~10.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Fuel Efficiency | ~55-60 km/l (claimed) |
| Top Speed (est.) | ~95–100 km/h |
It uses the tried-and-tested 124cc engine similar to the SP125, but tuned for slightly peppier performance. The gear shifts feel smooth, and initial torque delivery is tuned for city riding — ideal for traffic sprints and quick overtakes.
🧩 CB125 Hornet vs TVS Raider vs Hero Xtreme 125R
Let’s break down how Honda’s latest stacks up against the segment leaders:
⚔️ Performance Comparison
| Feature | Honda CB125 Hornet | TVS Raider 125 | Hero Xtreme 125R |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 124cc, air-cooled | 124.8cc, air-cooled | 124.7cc, air-cooled |
| Max Power | ~11.2 PS | 11.4 PS | 11.4 PS |
| Max Torque | ~10.5 Nm | 11.2 Nm | 10.5 Nm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Mileage (claimed) | 55–60 km/l | 57 km/l | 60 km/l |
🎯 Features Comparison
| Feature | Honda CB125 Hornet | TVS Raider 125 | Hero Xtreme 125R |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamp | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Console | Yes | Yes (3D LCD) | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No (Expected in DLX) | Yes (Top Variant) | No |
| USB Charger | Yes (Optional) | Yes | Yes |
| Start/Stop System | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Disc Brakes (Front) | Yes (240mm) | Yes | Yes |
📌 Verdict:
TVS Raider still leads in terms of tech (Bluetooth, voice assist), but Honda nails the build quality and refinement, while Hero offers a balanced, budget-friendly package.
💰 Pricing & Variants: Where Does Hornet Fit?
Honda has announced two variants for the CB125 Hornet:
| Variant | Expected Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Standard (Drum) | ₹91,000 |
| DLX (Front Disc + USB) | ₹95,500 |
TVS Raider’s pricing ranges from ₹94K to ₹1.02 lakh, while Hero Xtreme 125R starts at ₹95K. So Honda is aiming to undercut its rivals slightly without compromising on quality.
🏍️ Ride & Handling: Smooth, Comfy & City-Ready
The CB125 Hornet uses a diamond frame chassis, telescopic forks up front, and a monoshock rear (non-adjustable). Ride quality is plush, and handling feels predictable — perfect for beginners and everyday use.
💡 At just 117 kg (kerb weight est.), it’s also super nimble — you can zip through traffic and park anywhere with ease.
🔊 First Impressions: What Riders Are Saying
Early reviewers and test riders are already calling it:
- ✅ “A matured Raider alternative with Honda smoothness.”
- ✅ “Perfect for those who want subtle style and no gimmicks.”
- ✅ “Best-in-class refinement and comfort.”
On the flip side:
- ❌ No rear disc brake even in DLX
- ❌ No Bluetooth or navigation
- ❌ Slightly conservative design for thrill-seekers
🔍 Who Should Buy the CB125 Hornet?
The CB125 Hornet is perfect for:
🎓 College students – Want sporty looks & mileage
👨💼 Office commuters – Need refined ride & brand reliability
💸 Budget-conscious buyers – Get Honda quality under ₹1L
🛠️ First-time riders – Light, easy to handle & forgiving power
🧮 Cost of Ownership & Mileage
Honda’s service network is vast, and maintenance for 125cc bikes is generally pocket-friendly.
| Ownership Cost (Est. 1 Year) | CB125 Hornet |
|---|---|
| Fuel (avg 1,000 km/month) | ₹1,500–1,800 |
| Service + Oil Changes | ₹1,200–1,500 |
| Insurance | ₹1,200 |
| Total | ₹4,000–₹4,500 per year |
👉 That’s just ₹12–15/day to run your dream bike!
🌈 Color Options & Visual Appeal
Honda is expected to offer 4 bold color options:
- Matte Axis Grey Metallic
- Sports Red
- Pearl Nightstar Black
- Striking Blue Metallic
Each color is paired with Hornet graphics, bold tank design, and contrasting alloys (in DLX).
🔮 What’s Next? CB125 Hornet Future Plans
Insider sources suggest Honda may soon launch:
- 🟣 CB125 Hornet Bluetooth Edition
- 🟠 MotoGP inspired graphics variant
- 🔧 Accessories: tank pad, sporty seat cowl, visors
So if you’re waiting for a feature-packed version — you might not have to wait long!
📣 Real Rider Opinions from Social Media
“Finally Honda launched something cool under ₹1 lakh. Looks better than Shine SP.” – @rider_dinesh
“TVS Raider fan here, but Hornet’s finish is next level. I’m tempted.” – @vishal_auto_enthusiast
“If it had Bluetooth, I’d book it today. Still great value though.” – @meghna_on_wheels
✅ Pros & Cons Summary
👍 Pros:
- Honda’s refinement & trust
- Muscular Hornet design
- Smooth gearbox & high fuel efficiency
- Light & city-friendly
- Affordable pricing
👎 Cons:
- No rear disc even in DLX
- No Bluetooth or advanced tech
- Not as aggressive as Raider in design
Also read: New Citroen C3 Facelift 2025
🤔 Should You Wait or Buy Now?
If you want:
- Honda quality
- Reliable city ride
- Budget under ₹1L
→ Buy Now.
If you want:
- Full tech package
- Aggressive performance
→ Wait for Raider SmartXonnect or Hornet DLX+ Edition.
📚 Sources
- Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Official Site
- TVS Motor Official Site – Raider 125
- Hero MotoCorp – Xtreme 125R
- Autocar India
❓ FAQs – Honda CB125 Hornet
Q1. What is the mileage of Honda CB125 Hornet?
👉 Around 55–60 km/l under mixed conditions.
Q2. Is CB125 Hornet suitable for beginners?
👉 Yes! It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and forgiving in traffic.
Q3. Does it have Bluetooth connectivity?
👉 Not in the current variant, but expected in future DLX+ version.
Q4. What is the top speed?
👉 Around 95–100 km/h, depending on rider weight and road conditions.
Q5. How does it compare to TVS Raider?
👉 Raider has more features, but Hornet has better refinement and brand value.
📌 Final Verdict: Honda’s 125cc Knight Has Arrived
The Honda CB125 Hornet isn’t just another commuter. It’s a blend of practicality, sporty looks, and Honda trust, aimed at India’s rising youth segment. It doesn’t scream for attention but confidently delivers where it matters — ride quality, mileage, and everyday usability.
As the 125cc segment heats up, Honda’s move is bold, calculated, and bound to shake things up. TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme now have serious competition.
🛵 CB125 Hornet – कम में दम, स्टाइल में नंबर वन!
