CB125F brings range of big bike-inspired updates and a Honda ‘first’ for its 26 year model iteration

1. Introduction

An entry-level 125cc motorcycle needs to be a multi-faceted machine. To some it represents the most economical way of getting from A to B, both in terms of initial affordability and running costs. To these riders it must be durable, easy to live with and economical: simple, trouble-free transport at its most fundamental.

But to many new riders a 125 is the start of their motorcycling adventure, their first ‘real’ bike. So, it must deliver all the above, plus everything else that a motorcycle should – the excitement, freedom and instinctive pleasure that two wheels bring to everyday life. Yet it also must be easy for a novice to manage as they learn, with a build quality and styling that instil tangible pride of ownership.

For any manufacturer, welcoming and introducing fresh entrants to their brand is important. The right initial experience can lead to a lifelong association, and the CB125F has long served this function for Honda – a tough, user-friendly entry-level motorcycle that offers the perfect first rung on the ladder. The CB125F was a new model name for Honda in 2015; it maintained the previous CBF125’s core strength of robust simplicity but built strongly on that strong foundation in terms of quality, ease of use and style.

In 2021 the CB125F was renewed once more, with a complete (lighter weight) refresh that made it even more desirable and cost effective. In 24YM it received a light update through a new muffler and pillion grab handle and now, for 26YM, it moves on again with updated styling, revised details and additional tech that owners will appreciate. 

As ever, the CB125F remains a great bike to simply get you where you need to be, or from where to begin the ride – and journey – of a lifetime.

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2. Model Overview

The CB125F is a serious small machine, whose original development involved the filing of no fewer than 19 patent applications. Completely updated in 21YM, it lost 11kg thanks to a new engine, redesigned frame and revised bodywork. For 26YM – and expanding on its success – the CB125F receives refreshed, sharper styling with a new, premium, headlight signature, plus enhanced specification and everyday usefulness in the form of a full-colour 4.2” TFT display, complete with RoadSync smartphone connectivity and USB-C port conveniently located near the handlebars.

Idling Stop technology has been applied and, as before, the air-cooled enhanced Smart Power (eSP) engine offers a user-friendly experience, EURO5+ compliance, and outstanding fuel economy, all while maintaining excellent 125cc performance

The 26YM CB125F will be available in the following bold colour options:

• Imperial Red Metallic
• Matt Marvel Blue Metallic 
• Matt Axis Gray Metallic

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3. Key Features
    3.1 Engine

• Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) engine with ACG starter - now includes Idling Stop technology for even greater fuel economy, plus EURO5+ compliance
• Low friction technologies include offset cylinder, needle bearings for the roller/rocker arms and piston oil jet
• Five-speed gearbox and sealed final drive chain
• Uprated 5Ah battery

The CB125F’s air-cooled, 124cc 2-valve SOHC single-cylinder eSP engine has been engineered from its inception to maintain optimum performance for busy urban streets but with extra, serious frugality and supreme reliability.

Peak power of 8kW is delivered @ 7,500rpm, with peak torque of 10.9Nm @ 6,000rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 50 x 63.1mm, with a compression ratio of 10.0:1. This results in standing start acceleration over 200m of 12.4s, but more importantly, the fuel efficiency is 66.7km/l, giving a potential range of over 730km from the 11L fuel tank.

Honda has developed its eSP engines – and the engineering that goes into them – on a growing range of 125cc scooters over the last 8 years. The focus is around building in, from a clean sheet, low-friction technology to every facet of the engine. And it starts with weight; the 2021 upgrade reduced the weight of the eSP engine by 7kg. Its cylinder is offset, reducing friction between the piston skirt and bore, while the piston itself is cooled by an oil jet from underneath, again reducing friction. Valve operation is via rocker-roller arms equipped with needle bearings.

An Alternating Current Generator (ACG) is also part of the eSP formula and combines electricity generation with starting duties, saving weight while simplifying layout. The effort needed to start the engine is reduced thanks to a swing-back system that returns the crank to its position before air intake – giving the engine a ‘running’ start – and a decompression mechanism that negates cranking resistance due to compression. In use the ACG starter is extremely quiet.

Idling Stop technology – as found on the Vision 110, SH125i and PCX125 scooters – is a benefit of the ACG system and a 26YM addition; it’s also the first on a Honda with a standard manual transmission. The system switches off the engine at standstill, operates (in any gear) to seamlessly restart it as the clutch is let out, and can be turned off if desired. A new 02 sensor plus updated ECU settings ensures EURO5+ compliance while an uprated battery, from 4Ah to 5Ah, ensures durable cranking power.

The gearbox is 5-speed and final drive is via a 428 sealed chain.

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3.2 Styling & Equipment

• Comprehensive styling refresh builds big bike appeal
• New 4.2-inch colour TFT screen features Honda RoadSync connectivity
• USB-C charging socket 
• New LED front and rear lights
• Passenger grab rail and centre stand standard fit

The 26YM CB125F wears updated, sophisticated styling to deliver the owner even more of that big bike style. Building on what went before, the broad-shouldered fuel tank takes its cue from other models in the CB family with added dynamicism in its taut lines – backed up by a revised ‘large mass’ rear seat cowl – while the refreshed nose fairing and blacked-out fly screen are more compact and stylish yet still provide ample wind deflection, alongside the tank side shrouds. The all-new headlight unit is an LED item with a unique, distinct and highly visible vertical light signature; the re-shaped taillight is also new LED. The start/stop button is an integrated switch as is the high beam/passing switch.

The centrepiece of the new riding experience is a brand new, full colour 4.2-inch TFT display that includes gear position indicator, fuel gauge and clock. It also incorporates Bluetooth, while the smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync is also an upgrade. This feature allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music. Owners just need to download the Honda RoadSync app, connect to the CB125F, and they're ready to go. For convenient smartphone charging, a USB-C socket is included.

The engine, exhaust downpipe, fork lowers and wheels are blacked out, underlining the strong, defined lines and bold paintwork options. The muffler too, is blacked out and finished in a near full length chrome heat shield. Other quality finishing touches include 3D Honda Wings on the shrouds and mirror/indicator shaping that emulates the design language of the whole machine.

With its intended use as an everyday commuter, gateway machine to the world of motorcycling – and riding school stalwart – the CB125F’s riding position is upright and relaxed, with forward-set footpegs and wide tubular handlebars giving optimum control, rider confidence and all-round visibility. Seat height is set at a manageable 790mm and offers room for two adults comfortably; an aluminium passenger grab rail is also standard, as is a centre stand.

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3.3 Chassis

• Lightweight tubular steel frame 
• Preload adjustable twin rear shocks
• 117kg wet weight
• Confidence-inspiring Combined Braking System (CBS)

The CB125F’s tubular frame uses high-tensile steel in its construction. It suspends the engine from a sturdy central spine and features geometry that provides the best balance between ride comfort and straight-line stability, with a focus toward light steering input and sporty feel at all lean angles. Rake and trail are set at 26° and 92mm, with wheelbase of 1,285mm and wet weight is only 117kg.

Dual rear shocks offer five-stage spring preload adjustment and complement the 30mm diameter telescopic fork’s compliance and ride quality; stylish 18-inch die-cast aluminium split-five-spoke front and rear wheels increase stability and ride quality over rough city streets. 

Tyres are sized 80/100 front and 100/80 rear. A 240mm front disc is worked by a single piston caliper, with back up from the 130mm rear drum. Aiding new and less experienced riders is the confidence-inspiring Combined Braking System (CBS), which applies some braking force to the front disc when using the rear brake, for more balanced and stable low-speed control.

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4. Technical Specifications