Abhijeet A
New Delhi: Honda has just dropped a bombshell in the fiercely competitive 125cc segment with the launch of the all-new 2025 Hornet 125. Aimed squarely at young, tech-savvy buyers, the new Hornet 125 isn’t just a commuter; it’s a feature-packed streetfighter designed to challenge the established leaders. With aggressive styling borrowed from its larger siblings and a host of modern features, Honda is making its boldest move yet to capture the premium 125cc crown. But does it have enough venom to dethrone the segment’s undisputed champion, the TVS Raider 125, and fend off the ever-popular Bajaj Pulsar NS125? We dive deep into the specs, pricing, and competition.
Key Features at a Glance
| Specification | 2025 Honda Hornet 125 (Expected) |
| Engine | 124cc, Air-Cooled, PGM-FI |
| Max Power | ~11 BHP |
| Max Torque | ~11 Nm |
| Key Feature | All-Digital TFT Console with Bluetooth Connectivity |
| Brakes | Front Disc with ABS/CBS |
| Ex-Showroom Price | Expected between ₹1.05 Lakh – ₹1.15 Lakh |
Price Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Honda is expected to price the new Hornet 125 aggressively, positioning it as a premium, feature-rich offering. We anticipate an ex-showroom price starting around ₹1,10,000. However, the final cost to you, the on-road price, will be higher after including RTO registration, insurance, and other mandatory charges.
Here are our expert estimates for the on-road prices of the new Honda Hornet 125 in India’s major cities:
- Delhi: ₹1,28,000 – ₹1,35,000
- Mumbai: ₹1,32,000 – ₹1,40,000
- Bengaluru: ₹1,35,000 – ₹1,43,000
- Chennai: ₹1,30,000 – ₹1,38,000
(Note: These are estimated on-road prices for the top variant and may vary depending on the dealer, final launch price, and applicable state taxes.)
Honda Hornet 125 vs. Its Biggest Rivals
The premium 125cc space is a battleground of style, features, and performance. The Hornet 125 enters a tough fight against two of the most popular motorcycles in India. Here’s how they stack up.
| Feature | Honda Hornet 125 | TVS Raider 125 | Bajaj Pulsar NS125 |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ₹1.10 Lakh (est.) | From ₹97,182 | From ₹99,994 |
| Engine (CC) | 124cc (Air-Cooled) | 124.8cc (Air-Oil Cooled) | 124.45cc (Air-Cooled) |
| Power (BHP) | ~11 BHP | 11.2 BHP | 11.8 BHP |
| Mileage (ARAI/Owner) | ~60-65 kmpl (est.) | ~57-67 kmpl | ~47-56 kmpl |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: Premium TFT screen & Honda reliability. Weakness: Likely the most expensive. | Feature: Segment-first ride modes & sporty sound. Weakness: Polarizing design for some. | Feature: Proven performance & sporty handling (Perimeter Frame). Weakness: Feels slightly dated in features. |
Our Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The 2025 Honda Hornet 125 is engineered for the modern urban rider who refuses to compromise. It’s the perfect choice for college students and young professionals who want more than just a tool for commuting.
You should buy the Honda Hornet 125 if: You prioritize a premium feel, cutting-edge technology, and the peace of mind that comes with the Honda badge. Its standout feature will be the high-resolution TFT display with smartphone connectivity, offering navigation and alerts – a massive draw for the tech-focused generation. It promises a refined engine, excellent build quality, and class-leading fuel efficiency, making it a smart, stylish, and sensible choice for daily city life.
While the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 may appeal more to those seeking raw performance and aggressive handling, and the TVS Raider 125 offers a unique package with its ride modes, the Hornet 125 aims to be the sophisticated all-rounder. It strikes an excellent balance between everyday usability, desirable features, and the aspirational value of the Hornet brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Honda Hornet 125 more powerful than the TVS Raider 125?
No, based on the expected specifications, the TVS Raider 125 and Bajaj Pulsar NS125 will have a slight edge in raw power figures. The Hornet 125, however, will likely focus on providing a smoother, more refined power delivery and superior fuel efficiency.
What are the main advantages of the Hornet 125 over the Pulsar NS125?
The Hornet 125’s biggest advantages will be its modern features. It is expected to come with a full-colour TFT digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation, which is a significant upgrade over the Pulsar NS125’s semi-digital console. The Hornet will also likely offer better overall mileage.
Does the Honda Hornet 125 have ride modes like the TVS Raider?
No, it is not expected to come with different ride modes (Eco and Power) like the TVS Raider. Honda’s focus is on providing a single, optimized mode for a balance of performance and efficiency, along with premium tech features.
What will be the expected mileage of the new Honda Hornet 125?
While official figures are yet to be released, given Honda’s expertise with fuel-efficient engines like in the SP125, we can expect the Hornet 125 to deliver a real-world mileage of around 60-65 kmpl, making it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in the premium 125cc segment.
