
Honda Hornet 125 – Good Buy ?
Today I am going to talk about the Honda Hornet 125.
Before I start the detailed review, let me say one thing very clearly:
If you want a bike that gives good mileage, stays strong for 15 years or more, and requires low maintenance, then the Honda Hornet 125 is one of the best options available in the 125cc segment.
This bike looks sporty, stylish, and modern. Many people who ride in city traffic want a bike that is easy to handle, light in weight, but also looks bold and attractive. Honda has designed this bike exactly for that type of rider.
I personally believe that in the 125cc sports bike category, this machine is ready to compete with every other brand.
When I first saw the bike, I felt like Honda has taken inspiration from bigger sports models like the Yamaha MT-15 and made a compact version for Indian buyers who want style and mileage together.
Now let me share my own experience.
When I rode the Honda Hornet 125, the first thing I noticed was the smooth engine response. The gear shifts were clean, the bike felt light, and the seating posture was comfortable for both city and short touring rides.
During my test, I got around 55 kmpl mileage. But if you ride with proper care, without unnecessary speeding, you can expect up to 65 kmpl mileage.
This is one of the biggest advantages of this bike.
Yes, I had one small thought in my mind. If Honda had given a 140-section rear tyre, the bike would have looked even more muscular and sporty. But still, the bike does not look weak at all. It already has a bold presence on the road.
Now, let us move step by step and discuss the specifications of Honda Hornet 125. After each specification, I will explain what it means in very simple English so that even a beginner rider can understand.
HONDA 125 HORNET SPECIFICATION
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine Displacement | 123.9cc, air cooled, fuel injected single cylinder |
Max power | 11 Hp @ 7500 rpm |
Max torque | 11.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Transmission | 5 speed manual |
Frame type | Diamond type steel frame |
Front suspension | Golden USD front fork |
Rear suspension | Preload adjustable mono shock |
Front brake | 240mm petal type disc with single channel ABS |
Rear brake | 130mm drum brake |
Front Tyres | 80/100-17 |
Rear Tyre | 110/80-17 |
Fuel tank capacity | 12L |
Curb weight | 124 kg |
Ground clearance | 166mm |
Wheelbase | 1330mm |
0-60 km/h | 6.3 sec |
Top speed | 115 km/h |
Mileage | 55-65 km/l |
Lighting | Full LED setup headlight, taollight, indicators, DRLs |
Price | Rs 1.12 lakh - Rs 1.45 lakh |
1. Engine
The Honda Hornet 125 comes with a 124.9cc single-cylinder engine. It is an air-cooled engine with Honda’s trusted technology. This means the engine is small but strong enough for daily use. Honda engines are famous for smoothness and durability. You can ride this bike for many years without worrying about engine failure. Even after 10–15 years, if you maintain it properly, the engine will still run well.
The single-cylinder setup also means less fuel consumption, which directly gives better mileage.
2. Power & Performance
The bike produces about 11 PS of power and around 11 Nm torque. Power is like the energy the bike uses to move fast. Torque is the pulling strength, useful when you carry a pillion or ride uphill.
This is not a superbike-level power, but for a 125cc category, it is more than enough. In city rides, you will never feel underpowered.
It can go up to a speed of 100 kmph, but the most comfortable range is 60–80 kmph, where you get the best balance of speed and mileage.
3. Mileage
One of the biggest selling points of Honda Hornet 125 is the excellent fuel efficiency. If you ride in city traffic, you can easily get 55 kmpl. If you ride carefully on highways, it may go up to 65 kmpl. This makes it a pocket-friendly bike, especially with the rising petrol prices. For students, office-goers, and daily commuters, mileage is the most important factor, and here the Hornet 125 does not disappoint.
4. Weight & Handling
The Honda Hornet 125 is very lightweight — about 110 kg only. This means you can easily move the bike in heavy traffic, park it in small spaces, and handle it comfortably even if you are a beginner.
The lightweight design makes it perfect for city rides, where quick handling is more important than top speed.
Even shorter riders can manage this bike without fear because it does not feel heavy.
5. Design & Looks
Honda has given the Hornet 125 a sporty and modern design. The front design is aggressive with a sharp headlamp, and overall, the bike looks inspired by the Yamaha MT-15. This is not a boring commuter bike. This is a sports-styled commuter.
Youngsters who want a stylish bike with a premium feel will definitely like it.
Even though it is only 125cc, the bike does not look small — it gives the impression of a bigger bike.
The only small thing I felt missing was a thicker rear tyre. If Honda had given a 140-section tyre, it would look more muscular. But still, the current tyre is enough for balance and safety.
6. Comfort & Riding Experience
When I rode the bike, I noticed the seating was upright and the engine was extremely smooth. The seating posture does not hurt your back even if you ride for long distances. The handlebar is placed at the right height, so you don’t have to bend too much.
The engine makes very little vibration. Even at higher speeds like 70–80 kmph, the bike feels stable.
For city rides, short tours, and daily use, the comfort level is excellent.
7. Price & Value for Money
The best part about Honda Hornet 125 is its affordable price. Honda has priced it in such a way that even middle-class buyers can purchase it without much financial stress.
MY OPINION
In my opinion, the Honda Hornet 125 is a complete package.
It gives style like a sports bike, mileage like a commuter bike, and trust like a Honda engine.
Yes, some people may say it is only 125cc and not very powerful compared to 150cc or 200cc bikes. But let me remind you: not everyone needs a high-speed racing bike. Most people need a practical bike for daily use, which should look good and save fuel.
That is exactly what Honda Hornet 125 gives you.
If your budget allows and you want a stylish yet practical motorcycle, you should definitely consider this one.