The 2026 Honda CB125R has officially made its global debut, bringing a sharper visual identity and a refreshed colour palette to one of the most premium motorcycles in the 125cc segment. While Honda has retained the motorcycle’s proven mechanical setup, the updated styling enhances its street presence and reinforces its position as a design-forward, technology-rich offering. Staying loyal to the Neo Sports Café design philosophy, the CB125R continues to target riders who value quality, refinement, and everyday usability.
Fresh Colour Options Enhance Street Presence
For the 2026 model year, Honda has introduced four new colours that significantly elevate the CB125R’s modern café racer appeal. The updated shades include Matt Rock Gray, Matt Lucent Silver Metallic, Zefiro Blue Metallic, and Matt Pearl Diaspro Red. These colours are carefully chosen to highlight the bike’s muscular body panels and minimalist proportions.
Despite being the smallest motorcycle in Honda’s Neo Sports Café lineup, the CB125R carries the same aggressive styling cues as its larger siblings. The sculpted tank shrouds, compact tail section, and signature round LED headlamp give it a confident yet premium road presence that stands out in urban environments.
Neo Sports Café Design With Big-Bike Feel
Honda has wisely avoided major design changes for 2026, as the CB125R already features a timeless and well-balanced look. Its compact dimensions, sharp lines, and streetfighter-inspired stance continue to appeal to young riders, beginners, and city commuters.
What truly sets the CB125R apart is its attention to detail. High-quality paint finishes, tight panel gaps, and solid build quality ensure the motorcycle never feels entry-level. Even at a glance, it delivers a big-bike aesthetic, which is rare in the 125cc category.
Refined 125cc Engine Tuned for Daily Use
The 2026 Honda CB125R is powered by a familiar 125cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 15 bhp. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox, the engine is tuned for smooth and predictable power delivery, making it ideal for daily commuting and new riders.
Thanks to its four-valve configuration and efficient cooling system, the engine remains responsive without feeling stressed. Fuel efficiency remains a strong point, which further enhances its practicality for everyday riding in global markets where 125cc motorcycles are widely used.
Premium Hardware Sets a New Benchmark
One of the biggest strengths of the Honda CB125R is its class-leading hardware. Unlike most motorcycles in this segment, Honda has equipped it with components typically seen on higher-capacity bikes.
The motorcycle features 41mm Showa SFF upside-down front forks, a 296mm front disc brake with a radial-mounted four-piston caliper, and a rear disc brake supported by ABS. Adding to its safety credentials is an IMU-based lean-sensitive ABS system, a rare feature in the 125cc class.
With a kerb weight of around 130 kg, the CB125R offers excellent balance, confident braking, and sharp handling. This advanced setup ensures stability during cornering and controlled braking, even in challenging riding conditions.
Why the 2026 Honda CB125R Is Unlikely for India
Despite its impressive design and premium features, the Honda CB125R is not expected to launch in India. The motorcycle’s high-end components and global manufacturing standards would result in a price significantly higher than what most Indian 125cc buyers prefer.
Honda already has value-focused models such as the Shine 125, SP 125, and CB125 Hornet catering to the Indian market. As a result, the CB125R remains a niche global product, admired by enthusiasts but unlikely to fit local pricing strategies.
2026 Honda CB125R Key Specifications
Model Year: 2026
Engine: 125cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power Output: 15 bhp
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Front Suspension: 41mm Showa SFF USD forks
Rear Suspension: Mono-shock
Front Brake: 296mm disc with radial-mounted caliper
Rear Brake: Disc with ABS
Kerb Weight: Approx. 130 kg
Colours: Matt Rock Gray, Matt Lucent Silver Metallic, Zefiro Blue Metallic, Matt Pearl Diaspro Red
Design Theme: Neo Sports Café
With its refined engine, advanced safety features, and premium design, the 2026 Honda CB125R continues to set high standards in the global 125cc motorcycle segment, proving that small-capacity bikes can still deliver big value and strong visual appeal.
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