Honda CB125 Hornet & Shine 100 DX 2025: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a bang, launching the Honda CB125 Hornet and Shine 100 DX for 2025. Priced at ₹1.12 lakh and ₹74,959 respectively (ex-showroom, Gurugram), these motorcycles cater to diverse riders—urban youth craving sporty flair and daily commuters seeking reliability. With standout features like golden USD forks on the Hornet and a digital LCD display on the Shine 100 DX, these bikes blend power, style, and practicality. In this detailed review, we’ll explore their design, performance, features, and why they’re set to shine on Google Discover in 2025. Let’s ride into the details!
Design and Style
The Honda CB125 Hornet and Shine 100 DX bring fresh aesthetics to their segments. The CB125 Hornet sports a streetfighter-inspired look with a muscular 12-liter fuel tank, sharp shrouds, and a split LED headlamp with DRLs, exuding aggression. Its segment-first golden USD forks, color-coded alloy wheels, and split-seat design add premium flair, while the 124 kg kerb weight and 166 mm ground clearance ensure agility on city streets and light trails. Available in vibrant dual-tone colors like Pearl Siren Blue with Lemon Ice Yellow and Pearl Igneous Black, it’s a magnet for Gen-Z riders.
The Shine 100 DX refines the iconic Shine design with a sculpted 10-liter fuel tank, chrome accents on the headlamp and muffler, and bold body graphics for a youthful vibe. Its all-black engine, long single-piece seat, and 103 kg lightweight frame make it practical yet stylish for daily commutes. Offered in colors like Imperial Red Metallic and Geny Gray Metallic, it balances elegance with accessibility, with a low 786 mm seat height suitable for all riders.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the CB125 Hornet boasts a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected, OBD2B-compliant engine, delivering 11.14 PS at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, it achieves a segment-best 0-60 km/h sprint in 5.4 seconds, making it the fastest 125cc bike in India. With an estimated mileage of 50-55 km/l, it balances sporty performance with efficiency. The diamond-type frame, golden USD forks, 5-step adjustable mono-shock, and 240 mm front petal disc with single-channel ABS ensure precise handling and confident braking on varied terrains.
The Shine 100 DX is powered by a 98.98cc engine with Honda’s eSP technology, producing 7.38 PS at 7,500 rpm and 8.04 Nm at 5,000 rpm. Its 4-speed gearbox and estimated 60-65 km/l mileage make it a commuter’s dream, offering smooth performance in traffic. Equipped with telescopic forks, 5-step adjustable twin shocks, and a Combined Braking System (CBS) with 130 mm front and 110 mm rear drum brakes, it handles India’s roads effortlessly. Both bikes feature tubeless tyres for low maintenance and stability.
Technology and Features
The CB125 Hornet sets a new standard in the 125cc segment with a 4.2-inch TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Honda RoadSync app integration for navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls. It includes a USB Type-C charging port, side-stand engine cut-off, and full LED lighting for safety and convenience. The Shine 100 DX upgrades the commuter experience with a digital LCD cluster showing real-time mileage, distance-to-empty, and service reminders. Chrome accents, updated graphics, and CBS enhance its practicality, though it lacks an LED headlamp. Both bikes prioritize rider safety and modern functionality, with the Hornet catering to tech-savvy youth and the Shine 100 DX appealing to practical commuters.
Pricing and Value
Priced at ₹1.12 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram), the CB125 Hornet is the priciest 125cc bike in its class, justified by its premium features and performance. The Shine 100 DX, at ₹74,959, is just ₹6,097 above the base Shine 100, offering excellent value with its upgraded features. Bookings opened on August 1, 2025, via Honda’s website or over 6,000 authorized dealerships, with deliveries starting mid-August 2025. EMI plans and bank offers are available, with monthly payments as low as ₹2,000 for the Shine 100 DX and ₹3,500 for the Hornet in select regions. Buyers should verify pricing, as the Hornet’s introductory rate may increase post-promotion.
Competitive Edge
The CB125 Hornet competes with the TVS Raider 125 (₹93,247), Hero Xtreme 125R (₹95,000), and Bajaj Pulsar N125 (₹94,707). Its golden USD forks, TFT display, and faster 0-60 km/h time give it an edge, though its higher price may challenge budget buyers. The Shine 100 DX rivals the Hero HF Deluxe Pro (₹73,000), Hero Splendor Plus Xtec (₹81,000), and Bajaj Platina 100 (₹68,000). Its digital cluster and premium styling stand out, but the lack of an LED headlamp is a minor drawback. Honda’s extensive service network and reliability bolster both bikes’ appeal in their segments.
Why They’re Ideal for India
The CB125 Hornet is perfect for urban youth seeking a stylish, tech-packed bike for city rides and occasional adventures. Its sporty performance and modern features cater to Gen-Z riders who value flair and connectivity. The Shine 100 DX, with its high mileage and low maintenance, is a practical choice for daily commuters navigating India’s bustling streets and rural roads. Both bikes leverage Honda’s reputation for durability, ensuring reliability across diverse conditions, from pothole-ridden cities to dusty villages.
Final Verdict
The Honda CB125 Hornet and Shine 100 DX 2025 are standout motorcycles that cater to distinct rider needs. The Hornet, at ₹1.12 lakh, redefines the 125cc segment with its sporty design, golden USD forks, and class-leading performance, making it a top pick for style-conscious youth. The Shine 100 DX, priced at ₹74,959, enhances the commuter experience with a digital LCD cluster and unbeatable reliability, ideal for budget-conscious riders. Despite the Hornet’s premium pricing, both bikes offer exceptional value, blending power, style, and practicality. Book your test ride today at a Honda dealership or online to experience these game-changers!
Important Note
The pricing of ₹1.12 lakh for the CB125 Hornet and ₹74,959 for the Shine 100 DX is ex-showroom (Gurugram) and may vary by region or dealer. The CB125 Hornet’s introductory price may increase post-promotion, and EMI plans or bank offers depend on specific terms. Verify pricing, availability, and specifications with authorized Honda dealers or www.honda2wheelersindia.com. Deliveries begin mid-August 2025.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is based on data from industry sources and Honda’s official announcements as of August 2025. Actual specifications, pricing, and features may vary by region, dealer, or promotional offers. Always confirm details with official Honda sources or authorized dealerships before purchasing. The author and publisher are not responsible for discrepancies or changes in pricing, availability, or specifications.
