When whispers of a ₹1.15 lakh ex-showroom price tag for the upcoming Honda CB125 Hornet hit social media, bikers have trembled. In a segment where every rupee counts, budget riders across all the states are torn between excitement for segment-first features and sticker-shock anxiety.
BikeDekho has hinted at a launch price of “around ₹1 lakh,” but newer reports suggest the Hornet will go higher, at ₹1.15 lakh ex-showroom. That would position it well above its competitors: TVS Raider (₹87,010), Hero Xtreme 125R (₹98,425), and Bajaj Pulsar N125 (₹92,000 approx).
“At that price, the Hornet is flirting with 150 cc territory,” warned Rider Aakrit, “if on-road cost tops ₹1.3 lakh, it could struggle to gain traction”.
Honda is packing in a golden USD fork—unheard of in 125 cc bikes—a 4.2″ TFT display with Bluetooth nav, LED lighting, and a 0–60 km/h sprint in just 5.4 seconds. For comparison, neither the Raider nor the Xtreme offers an inverted front end or connected dash. Yet on forums, many ask:
“All these bells and whistles are great, but does my pocket license have space for them?”
What Riders Are Saying
- Team-BHP threads laud Honda’s build quality yet critique the lack of rear disc brake and ABS. One user noted, “A ₹1.15 lakh tag without dual-channel ABS? Bold move.”
- xBhp debates whether features justify a ₹20,000–30,000 premium over the Xtreme, with one member warning, “Premium looks are one thing, but commuting costs matter more.
- Price fears dominate: “I’d rather take a Raider and save for helmet upgrades,” quipped another enthusiast.
Honda’s Game Plan to Soften the Blow
Industry whispers suggest Honda will launch early-bird discounts or introductory financing schemes. A special “Hornet Launch Edition” with cosmetic tweaks but a ₹99,999 ex-showroom sticker could be on the table. Honda insiders hint at bundling helmet and riding gear vouchers to offset punchy pricing.
“We recognise customer concerns and will tailor offers to ensure the CB125 Hornet complements, not complicates, urban riding budgets.”— An anonymous Honda spokesperson.
The CB125 Hornet’s debut price leak has ignited caution among India’s budget riders. While its segment-first features and Honda’s reliability promise are undeniable draws, the premium positioning risks alienating the very commuters this bike seeks to excite. Honda’s next moves—discounts, financing, and clear communication—will determine if the Hornet buzzes or fizzes out.
What do you think? Will the CB125 Hornet’s price sting outweigh its swagger? Share your views below and gear up for Honda’s official announcement on August 1!
