Honda CB125 Hornet vs Hero Xtreme 125R – Which 125cc streetfighter comes out on top?
With Honda’s foray into the premium 125cc streetfighter segment through the Honda CB125 Hornet, the competition intensifies against the already-popular Hero Xtreme 125R. In this detailed comparison, we pit both motorcycles head-to-head to examine how they stack up across performance, design, features, and value.
Engine and Performance
| Specification | Honda CB125 Hornet | Hero Xtreme 125R |
| Engine Type | 123.94cc, 1-cylinder, air-cooled | 124.7cc, 1-cylinder, air-cooled |
| Power Output | 11.14PS @ 7,500rpm | 11.56PS @ 8,250rpm |
| Torque | 11.2Nm @ 6,000rpm | 10.5Nm @ 6,000rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
The Hero Xtreme edges ahead in peak power, ideal for top-end performance, while the Hornet’s higher torque enhances urban rideability. Honda’s engine draws from the proven Shine and SP 125 lineage, now tuned for sportier dynamics.
Also Read: Honda Shine 100 DX Unveiled: Bookings Open from August 1
Chassis and hardware
| Specification | Honda CB125 Hornet | Hero Xtreme 125R |
| Frame | Diamond Type | Diamond Type |
| Front Suspension | Inverted USD Fork | 37mm Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Suspension | Adjustable Monoshock | Adjustable Monoshock |
| Braking Setup | 240mm Disc (ABS) / Drum Rear | 240/276mm Disc (ABS/CBS), Drum Rear |
| Tyres | 80/100-17 Front, 110/80-17 Rear | 90/90-17 Front, 120/80-17 Rear |
Honda stuns with segment-first inverted forks and eye-catching neon finishes, while Hero impresses with larger front disc brakes and beefier tyres for enhanced road grip.
Also Read: Honda Shine Electric – Patent Leak Unveils Exciting New Details
Dimensions and Ergonomics
| Specification | Honda CB125 Hornet | Hero Xtreme 125R |
| Ground Clearance | 166mm | 180mm |
| Seat Height | 786mm | 794mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 litres | 10 litres |
| Kerb Weight | 124kg | 132kg (CBS) / 136kg (ABS) |
With a lower kerb weight and seat height, the Hornet promises nimble handling and better approachability for shorter riders. The Xtreme, however, offers more ground clearance—ideal for unpredictable Indian terrain.
Tech and Features
| Feature | Honda CB125 Hornet | Hero Xtreme 125R |
| Console | 4.2-inch Color TFT | Negative LCD |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | Turn-by-Turn Navigation | No |
| Music & Alerts | Yes (Calls/SMS/Music) | Yes (Calls/SMS) |
| Start-Stop System | No | Yes |
| Silent Start | Yes | No |
| USB Charging | Type-C Port | No |
Honda excels in digital sophistication with full smartphone integration, navigation, music control, and a Type-C charger. Hero counters with i3S tech for better mileage in stop-and-go traffic.
Also Read: Hero HF Deluxe Pro Launched – Same Trusted Price Rs 73,550
Honda CB125 Hornet vs Hero Xtreme 125R: Price
| Model | Price (Ex-Showroom Delhi) |
| Hero Xtreme 125R | Rs 98,425–Rs 1,02,100 |
| Honda CB125 Hornet | Rs 1,00,000–Rs 1,10,000 (Expected) |
The Hero Xtreme 125R remains the benchmark for value in sporty commuting. However, if Honda prices the CB125 Hornet competitively, it could set a new standard in premium features and refinement in the 125cc segment.
Also Read: 2025 Hero HF100 Launched at Rs 60,118
