Summary of "Xtreme 125R Reject कर के CB 125 Hornet ले आए 😱 1.20 Lakh का नुकसान 🤣 Honda Cb125 Hornet Ownership"

Honda CB 125 Hornet Ownership Review by Vicky Bhai

This review shares detailed experiences and insights after about 1000 km of riding the Honda CB 125 Hornet. Vicky Bhai discusses his transition from other bikes and electric vehicles to this model, highlighting performance, comfort, features, and overall ownership impressions.

Ownership Background

Previously owned a Yamaha R15 and an Ola electric scooter.
Switched from Ola to a petrol bike due to reliability concerns and range anxiety with the electric vehicle.
Initially considered the Hero Extreme 250 but chose the Honda CB 125 Hornet for better mileage, budget suitability, and practicality for daily and field work.

Bike Selection Considerations

Compared the Honda CB 125 Hornet with competitors such as Hero Extreme 125, TVS Raider, and Bajaj NS 125.
Did not prefer Hero models except the Splendor.
Found TVS Raider small and lacking features.
Bajaj NS 125 was expensive with poor resale and service value.
Preferred Honda for its Japanese engine quality and overall reliability.

Performance & Mileage

Mileage before first service: approximately 50-55 km/l.
Expected mileage after service: 55-65 km/l.
Delivers good power for a 125cc segment.
Fuel efficiency allows around 710 km range on ₹1200 worth of fuel.
Engine vibrations are noticeable but manageable; expected to improve with further running and use of synthetic oil.

Comfort & Handling

Handlebar position felt aggressive initially, causing hand pain; plans to adjust handlebar for better comfort.
Seat height is 795 mm, suitable for riders around 5’6”, though feet may not fully touch the ground.
Seat is wide and comfortable, designed with field work in mind.
Pillion comfort improved compared to previous bikes like the R15, with a strong grip for the pillion rider.
Bike feels heavy in traffic but remains manageable and easy to lift.

Braking & Suspension

Front disc brake performs well.
Rear drum brake is effective and better than some competitors.
Single-channel ABS is present on the rear wheel.
Suspension features Showa USD forks (golden colored), comparable in quality to Yamaha R15, providing a smooth ride without harshness.

Build Quality & Features

Plastic build quality could be improved.
Engine protection guard feels more cosmetic than functional.
Tyres are thin (similar to Splendor); owner plans to upgrade to bigger tyres for better grip and aesthetics.
LED lighting system includes headlight, tail light, DRL, and meter display.
No hazard lights, considered a drawback.
Digital instrument cluster offers eco mode, gear position indicator, fuel range, and trip meters.
Bluetooth connectivity available but not yet tested.
Switchgear quality is good and smoother than some other brands.

Service & Maintenance

First service done at a friend’s showroom at minimal cost (~₹550 for engine oil and filter).
Owner used fully synthetic oil (₹800) for better performance.
Maintenance cost is low compared to previous bikes.
No major mechanical issues reported after 1000 km.

Sound & Exhaust

Exhaust sound is pleasant and relaxing, preferred over other bikes.
Silver exhaust finish could be improved with black paint for better aesthetics.

Overall Impression

Despite a loss of ₹1.20 lakh compared to previous bike choices, the Honda CB 125 Hornet is considered a good buy in its segment.
Offers a balance of mileage, power, comfort, and features.
Recommended for those seeking a reliable 125cc bike with good build quality and Japanese engine reliability.
Owner plans to continue using and testing the bike, with future updates at 5,000 and 10,000 km milestones.

Notable Mentions

Bikes Discussed: Honda CB 125 Hornet, Hero Extreme 125 & 250, TVS Raider, Bajaj NS 125, Yamaha R15.
Brands & Products: Showa suspension, MRF tyres, fully synthetic engine oil.
Reviewer: Vicky Bhai, known for honest and detailed vehicle ownership reviews.
Locations Referenced: Noida, Pari Chowk, Laxmi Nagar (riding locations).

This summary captures the owner’s detailed feedback on the Honda CB 125 Hornet, including comparisons, pros and cons, and practical insights into its daily use and maintenance.