Will Hero Xtreme 125R and TVS Raider 125 Be get Tensed?
Introductions
The Honda CB125 Hornet in the 125cc motorcycle segment in India has long been dominated by Sport’s-focused bikes. But in the last few years, the segment has seen a drastic shift in focus towards premium, sporty and tech-packed options. Honda has now entered the competition with an all-new bike – The Honda CB125 Hornet, which is a sporty and feature-packed sporty streetfighter bike. With the launch of this aggressive 125cc bike, Honda is trying to change the current situation.
But with strong competitors like the Hero Xtreme 125R and TVS Raider 125 already capturing the market, the big question is: should they get tensed?
Let’s take a deeper look at the specifications, features, price and overall impressions of the CB125 Hornet with other two bikes.
Table of Contents
Honda CB125 Hornet: First Look & Launch Details
Honda officially unveiled the CB125 Hornet in India on July 23, 2025, marking its entry into the premium 125cc segment with a young and sporty product. The motorcycle will go on sale from August 1, 2025, and bookings will open on the same day. Although Honda hasn’t revealed its exact price, it is expected to be priced around ₹1.00 lakh (ex-showroom), directly reveling the Xtreme 125R and Raider 125.
At first, the CB125 Hornet looks like a smaller version of the Hornet 2.0, and that’s not a bad thing. With its sharp design lines, curvy body, golden forks, robust curvy tank, and tech-packed cockpit will offers a premium feel rarely seen in this category.
Engine Specification & Performance
Under the tank, the Honda CB125 Hornet is powered by a 123.94cc self air-cooled single-cylinder engine, similar to what we’ve seen on the Honda SP125. However, it’s been re-tuned for more sportiness. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Specification | Honda CB125 Hornet | Hero Xtreme 125R | TVS Raider 125 |
| Engine | 123.94cc | 124.7cc | 124.8cc |
| Max Power | Upto 11.2PS@7450rpm | Upto 11.5PS@8350rpm | Upto 11.4PS@7450rpm |
| Max Torque | 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | 10.5 Nm @ 6,000 rpm | 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed | 5-speed |
While the power output is closely matched among all three, the Hornet’s torque is more accessible, thanks to its slightly lower peak rpm(revolution per minute). This should result in better low-end punch and easier urban riding with style.
Design & Styling
Honda has completely refined the design language of the Bike and It features:
- Stylish muscular fuel tank with a curved and sharp body
- LED lights at all corners above the headlamp, below the taillamp and on all side indicators.
- Inverted gold plating(gold finished) — a first in this segment!
- Sporty split-seat setup for your love.
- Tank cover and sharp belly pan which will take care of your body.
It looks like a true mini-streetfighter, just like the Hornet 2.0, is on the road. Compared to the Hero Xtreme 125R, which also has an aggressive design, and the Raider 125, which is more inclined towards youth appeal and urban styling, the Hornet stands out with its more premium shape and detailing for future looks.
Features & Technology
The biggest feature of the Honda CB125 Hornet is its TFT digital meter with navigation screen, which is rare in this segment.
Key Features:
- 4.2-inch TFT digital console
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Call/SMS alerts
- Turn-by-turn navigation with voice assistantance
- USB-C charging port
- Service due reminder alarm
- Side-stand sensor for engine cut-off
- Fully LED lighting system for cool looks.
This puts the Honda well ahead of its rivals in terms of technology. The Hero only gets a basic digital meter, while the TVS comes with a semi-digital unit in its base variant – although a SmartConnect version is available at a higher price.
Safety and Braking
The Honda gets a 240mm front disc and rear drum brake with single-channel ABS( Anti braking system). This setup is similar to the Hero Xtreme 125R, which also gets single-channel ABS.
Surprisingly, the TVS still does not give ABS, not even in its premium variant. It uses CBS (Combined Braking System), which is less effective in emergency situations.
This gives the Hornet a significant advantage in terms of safety, especially for urban riders.
Weight, Suspension & Ride Comfort
The Honda weighs just 124 kg, making it extremely comfortable for everyday use. It also features:
- Inverted front forks (USD)
- Monoshock rear adjustable suspension
- Tapered handlebar for proper sporty control
This setup will offer better front-end feedback and overall ride quality than the telescopic forks on the Xtreme and Raider. The TVS is slightly lighter (around 123 kg) and is known for its performances and fuel efficiency, while the Hero Xtreme 125R is heavier, weighing over 137 kg, which might affect its fuel efficiency and mileage.
Mileage and Practicality
Honda has yet to reveal exact mileage figures, but based on the SP125’s engine base, it is expected to deliver around 60–65 kmpl(kilometres per hour) under mixed conditions.
Real-world mileage (approx.):
- Honda : 60–65 kmpl (est.)
- TVS: 65–70 kmpl
- Hero: 55–60 kmpl
So while the Raider may continue to dominate in pure fuel economy, the Hornet balances economy with a more premium stylish ride and features.
Who Should Be Tensed?
Hero Xtreme 125R
– Why a concern: At the same price, the Xtreme offers less tech and a heavier chassis. Its aggressive styling may not be enough to counter the premium feel and performance tuning of the Hornet.
– Where it still shines: ABS braking, slightly higher maximum speed potential.
TVS Raider 125
– Why a concern: With the arrival of the Hornet, the lack of ABS and basic safety equipment in the Raider becomes apparent. Also, complaints about fit and finish still resisting for Raider owners.
– Where it still shines: Great mileage, light and nimble urban performance, and a well-established young fan base.
Honda CB125 Hornet
– Why it’s a game-changer: It sets a new standard in the 125cc sporty commuter segment in this segment.
– Advanced features, great styling, premium components, and Honda Trust reliability.
Expected Price & Variants
– Expected Price: ₹1.00 lakh to ₹1.05 lakh (ex-showroom)
– Launch Date: August 1, 2025
– Booking: Opens August 1 via dealerships and online
Final Conclusion
The Honda CB125 Hornet is a perfect match of style, power and urban look in the 125cc segment. It not only outperforms its rivals in technology and design, but also stands strong in terms of ride, safety and everyday usability.
While the all the three bikes have made their mark, the Honda could redefine expectations from a 125cc bike. If priced competitively, it could become the new choice for buyers looking for a balance of performance, technology and style – all backed by Honda’s excellence.
What do you think?
Would you consider buying the Honda CB125 Hornet over the Hero Xtreme or the TVS Raider? Let us know in the comments below or join the conversation on our Instagram page Stay tuned for a full test ride review once the bike is available for media trials.
Ashish Kumar
Founder, ECCI Educational Blog
Email: info@ecciedu.com