The 125cc motorcycle segment in India is heating up, becoming incredibly competitive. And now, Honda has made a significant entry with a game-changer: the Honda CB 125 Hornet. Traditionally, Honda’s focus in this segment has been on commuter bikes, with the Shine being a consistent bestseller. While they introduced sportier versions like the Shine SP and even ventured into the 160cc segment, their 100cc and 125cc offerings were primarily aimed at family-oriented riders.
However, the CB 125 Hornet marks a distinct shift. This new motorcycle is designed to appeal directly to the younger generation, offering a blend of aggressive styling and premium features. But can it truly take on established rivals like the TVS Raider and Bajaj Pulsar 125? As an experienced automotive journalist who has closely followed the evolution of the Indian two-wheeler market, I’ve analyzed every detail of this new launch. Let’s dive deep into the Honda CB 125 Hornet’s features, performance, and its potential to shake up the segment.
A Bold New Design Language: Aggressive & Youthful
The first thing that strikes you about the Honda CB 125 Hornet is its design. Honda has truly gone all out to make it look aggressive and appealing to a younger audience.
- Sharp Fuel Tank Extensions: The fuel tank features sharp, sculpted extensions that give the bike a muscular and sporty stance.
- Angular LED Headlight: The headlight unit is angular and comes in a split-type design, providing an aggressive face to the motorcycle. It’s complemented by LED indicators, enhancing the modern appeal of the front fascia.
- Vibrant Color Graphics: The Hornet will be available in four bold color options, each featuring striking graphics. These aren’t just single-tone colors; they often incorporate dual or even triple-tone combinations (e.g., a blue bike might have black and other accents on its side panels), making the bike visually dynamic and appealing.
- Overall Aggressive Look: From the sharp lines to the bold graphics, the CB 125 Hornet exudes a sporty and aggressive vibe that is a clear departure from Honda’s traditional commuter designs in this segment.
Premium Hardware: Segment-First Features
Beyond its looks, the CB 125 Hornet brings some serious hardware to the 125cc segment, including a notable “first-in-segment” feature.
- USD (Upside Down) Front Forks: This is arguably the biggest highlight. The CB 125 Hornet comes equipped with golden-colored USD front forks, a feature typically found only on much higher-segment or premium motorcycles. This not only enhances the bike’s visual appeal but also significantly improves handling, stability, and rider comfort, especially over varied road conditions and during spirited riding.
- Rear Monoshock Suspension: Complementing the USD front forks, the rear features a monoshock suspension, ensuring a balanced and comfortable ride quality.
- Braking System: For braking, the Hornet gets a 240mm disc brake at the front and a traditional drum brake at the rear. The use of a petal disc at the front is a thoughtful touch, aiding in better heat management during braking.
- Wider Rear Tire: The bike comes with a 110/80 rear tire, which is noticeably wider than what’s typically offered in this segment. A broader tire provides better grip and enhances the bike’s visual bulk, contributing to its sporty stance.
Engine & Performance: Balanced Power for Urban and Highway Rides
The heart of the Honda CB 125 Hornet is a 125cc engine, engineered to deliver a balanced performance suitable for both city commutes and occasional highway cruising.
- Power Output: The engine produces approximately 11 brake horsepower (bhp).
- Torque Output: It generates 11.2 Nm of torque.
- 5-Speed Gearbox: Power is transmitted via a smooth 5-speed gearbox.
The power and torque figures are quite competitive, putting it in a similar league to rivals like the TVS Raider. This ensures that the bike has enough punch for quick overtakes in city traffic and maintains decent cruising speeds on highways.
Riding Experience & Ergonomics: Tailored for the Youth
The ergonomics and riding posture of the CB 125 Hornet seem specifically designed to cater to a younger demographic.
- Rider Comfort: The riding position offers good comfort for the rider, providing a confident and engaging feel.
- Pillion Comfort: The pillion seat is positioned a bit higher, similar to bikes like the Hero Xtreme 125R. While this might be less comfortable for ladies or those looking for a more family-friendly setup (where a flatter seat is preferred), it’s perfectly suitable for youngsters and college students.
- Enhanced Control: The USD front forks play a crucial role here, providing superior control and stability, whether navigating through city traffic or cruising at higher speeds on the highway.
Competition Analysis: Can It Beat the Rivals?
The 125cc segment is fiercely competitive, with well-established players. The Honda CB 125 Hornet enters a ring with formidable opponents.
- TVS Raider: The TVS Raider is a strong contender, often recommended for its comfortable seating, especially for pillion riders, making it a favorite among those who prioritize family-friendly commuting. The Hornet’s higher pillion seat might mean it won’t directly eat into the Raider’s core family-oriented customer base.
- Hero Xtreme 125R & Bajaj Pulsar NS125: The Honda CB 125 Hornet appears to be a direct competitor to sporty 125cc bikes like the Hero Xtreme 125R and Bajaj Pulsar NS125. Its aggressive design, sporty seating, and premium features like USD forks directly challenge these models. The Xtreme, in particular, seems to be in the Hornet’s direct line of fire.
Pricing & Booking: The Deciding Factor
While the features and design are impressive, the pricing will be the ultimate determinant of the CB 125 Hornet’s success.
- Expected Price: The expected on-road price is in the range of ₹1 lakh to ₹1.10 lakh.
- Booking & Announcement: Bookings for the Honda CB 125 Hornet are set to open from August 1st, with the official price announcement expected in August.
If Honda manages to price the CB 125 Hornet competitively against the TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme 125R, it has a very high chance of becoming a major hit in the segment. Its premium features, especially the USD forks, at this price point could make it an irresistible package for young buyers.
Conclusion: A Promising New Entrant
The Honda CB 125 Hornet is a refreshing and aggressive entry into the 125cc segment. It breaks away from Honda’s traditional commuter image in this category, offering a motorcycle that is visually striking, packed with premium features like USD front forks, and promises a sporty yet comfortable riding experience.
While it might not directly challenge the TVS Raider’s family-centric appeal, its direct competition with models like the Hero Xtreme 125R is clear. If Honda hits the sweet spot with its pricing, the CB 125 Hornet has the potential to become a top choice for young riders seeking a stylish, feature-rich, and performance-oriented 125cc motorcycle. This could very well be the bike that redefines Honda’s presence in the sporty end of the mass-market two-wheeler segment.
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Source: Honda CB 125 Hornet Launched | Full Features & Review
