Honda has finally launched a brand-new premium 125cc motorcycle in the Indian market, and it is called the Honda CV 125 Hornet. This bike marks Honda’s serious entry into the high-quality commuter segment, delivering both style and performance in one complete package. Packed with first-in-segment features, aggressive design, and sporty ergonomics, the CV 125 Hornet is meant to attract riders who want more than just a daily runabout. In this detailed review, we will explore the features, performance, specifications, design, and everything else you need to know about this new machine that is already creating a buzz.
Also Read: Honda Hornet 750 Review: Price, Features, and Complete Specs
Premium Features that Set the Honda CV 125 Hornet Apart
The Honda CV 125 Hornet offers several segment-first features that elevate its appeal. Right from the front, it grabs attention with premium gold-colored Showa upside-down forks that look stunning and add superior handling. At the rear, the bike comes with a preload-adjustable monoshock, which is usually not found in typical 125cc motorcycles. The front braking system is equipped with a 240mm petal-type disc brake, while the rear uses a drum brake setup. A single-channel ABS system is offered as standard, ensuring safety during sudden stops.
One of the most surprising omissions in India has been the CB125R and CB150R, both available in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Europe, and Bangladesh. Despite repeated requests from enthusiasts, Honda hasn’t brought them to the Indian market. But the arrival of the CV 125 Hornet shows Honda’s fresh direction for the 125cc class in India.
Speaking of looks, the Honda CV 125 Hornet is very sporty and aggressive. Its LED headlight design bears some resemblance to the Hero Xtreme 125R, and it features all-LED lighting, including LED indicators typically found on Honda’s premium bikes. The front tyre is 80/100 section, while the rear is a fatter 110 section, providing good road grip and enhanced aesthetics.
The split-seat setup adds to the sporty look, and both the rider and pillion seats are quite comfortable. While the pillion seat is currently shown with a cover, the space and cushioning underneath ensure a relaxed ride. The foot pegs are slightly rear-set, giving the rider a sporty stance, but not too aggressive to affect comfort.
Advanced Technology and Performance in a 125cc Package
The standout tech feature in the Honda CV 125 Hornet is its TFT fully-digital instrument console. This console supports turn-by-turn navigation and smartphone connectivity, something rarely seen in this segment. The quality of switchgear is excellent, and the compact handlebar gives it a naked streetfighter feel. Bar-end mirrors are installed on the display unit, but these will be offered as accessories. Standard mirrors resemble those on the Hornet 2.0.
The exhaust system looks bold, and the LED taillight design enhances the rear’s sporty look. The rear fender is compact, adding to the clean styling of the motorcycle from behind.
When it comes to dimensions and practical usability, the CV 125 Hornet ticks many boxes. The bike weighs just 124 kg, making it very lightweight for the segment. Fuel tank capacity is 12 liters, and if you get around 50 km/l mileage, this bike can easily cover a range of up to 600 kilometers on a full tank. Its ground clearance is 166mm, which is decent for Indian roads and won’t let the underbody scrape easily. The seat height is about 795mm, suitable even for shorter riders to confidently manage the bike.
Bookings for the CV 125 Hornet will begin from 1st August, making it one of the most awaited premium commuter bikes of the year.
Honda CV 125 Hornet – Quick Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 124cc, Air-Cooled, Single-Cylinder |
| Maximum Power | Around 11 PS |
| Peak Torque | Around 11 Nm |
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual |
| Front Suspension | Showa USD Forks (Golden) |
| Rear Suspension | Preload Adjustable Monoshock |
| Front Brake | 240mm Disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | Drum |
| Tyres (Front/Rear) | 80/100 Front – 110 Rear |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 Litres |
| Mileage Estimate | Approx. 50 km/l |
| Weight | 124 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 166 mm |
| Seat Height | 795 mm |
| Instrument Console | TFT with Bluetooth and Navigation |
| Lighting | Full LED Setup |
Engine, Ride Quality, and Competitor Analysis
The heart of the Honda CV 125 Hornet is a 124cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces approximately 11 PS of power and 11 Nm of torque. It comes paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, which makes the ride smooth for both city and light highway use. Honda claims that the bike can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in just 5.4 seconds, which is impressive for this segment.
In terms of engine refinement, Honda has done a great job. The bike feels smooth and vibration-free even at mid-range RPMs. The power delivery is linear, and combined with the light weight, it feels nimble and easy to handle in traffic. When compared to rivals like TVS Raider 125 and Hero Xtreme 125R, the CV 125 Hornet offers a more premium feel, especially with its suspension setup, digital features, and overall build quality.
What truly stands out is that Honda has finally brought a performance-oriented and tech-loaded 125cc bike to the Indian commuter segment, which has long been dominated by basic, no-frills models. With this launch, Honda is clearly aiming to provide a premium riding experience in a class that usually focuses on affordability.
Final Thoughts on the Honda CV 125 Hornet
So, how does the Honda CV 125 Hornet perform on first impression? In short, it looks like a strong contender in the premium 125cc motorcycle market. From its eye-catching design, advanced digital features, first-in-segment suspension setup, to its refined engine, it checks almost all the boxes for riders looking for more from their daily ride.
Its pricing is expected to be around ₹1 lakh (ex-showroom), which places it in direct competition with the Hero Xtreme 125R and TVS Raider 125. But where it truly shines is in offering a more refined and feature-loaded alternative, something Honda fans have been waiting for.
Bookings begin on August 1, so if this bike appeals to you, it might be the right time to explore it further. We will bring a detailed ride review very soon, but until then, the Honda CV 125 Hornet already looks like a bold and promising entry into the 125cc segment.
