Both the Hero Xtreme 125R vs Honda CB 125 Hornet scream, “I’m not your average commuter.” The Hero Xtreme 125R rocks a muscular, angular look with sharp lines and a split-seat setup that gives it a mini-superbike feel. Its LED headlamps and tank shrouds add aggression, available in bold colors like Stealth Black or Fiery Red. But here’s a unique take: In 2025, Hero introduced a single-seat variant for that solo-rider edge, making it feel more custom without extra mods.
On the flip side, the Honda CB 125 Hornet, freshly launched in mid-2025, borrows from its bigger Hornet siblings with a sleek, naked streetfighter stance. Upside-down forks (USD) up front—a first in this segment—give it a premium, planted look, paired with a compact fuel tank and edgy graphics. It’s lighter and more minimalist, appealing to riders who want subtle sophistication over outright bulk. Users on forums rave about its “bulletproof” build, echoing Honda’s reputation for durability.
Quick overview: The contenders
-
Hero Xtreme 125R — Hero’s sporty 125cc aimed at buyers who want a practical everyday bike with a sporty stance and high claimed fuel efficiency.
-
Honda CB 125 Hornet — Honda’s premium 125cc offering that leans into features and a European-inspired upright streetfighter look, with tech like a TFT and Bluetooth on the spec sheet.
Head-to-head spec
| Spec / Feature | Hero Xtreme 125R | Honda CB 125 Hornet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (cc) | 124.7 cc | 123.94 cc |
| Max Power | 11.4 bhp | 11.1 bhp |
| Max Torque | 10.5–11.5 Nm* | 11.2 Nm |
| Claimed Mileage | 66 kmpl | 48 kmpl |
| Kerb Weight | 136 kg | 124 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 10 L | 12 L |
| Brakes | Front disc + CBS / ABS | Front disc + ABS |
| Display | Digital cluster, USB | 4.2″ TFT, Bluetooth, |
| Ex-showroom price | ₹98–102k | ₹1.12 lakh |
Design & ergonomics
The Xtreme 125R follows a classic sporty commuter silhouette: sharp lines, compact headlamp cowl, and a slightly forward-leaning stance that reads sporty without being aggressive. The seat is commuter-friendly, and Hero even offers a single-piece seat variant for those who prefer pillion comfort or a cleaner single-seat look.
The CB 125 Hornet looks like a shrunken big-bore streetfighter – inverted forks, stubby tail, and muscular tank shrouds. Ergonomically, it offers a more upright and confident riding position compared to the Xtreme, which helps in city traffic and makes the CB feel a touch more planted at speed. Features like USD forks give it premium visual and functional cues.
Rider take: If you prefer a more aggressive posture and premium touches, the CB 125 Hornet feels more upmarket. If you want simplicity, ease of use, and slightly better pillion practicality (depending on the variant), Xtreme is very practical.
Performance & real-world riding
Both bikes use refined 125cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engines – numbers are close, so real-world differences come down to tuning, weight, and gearing.
-
Xtreme 125R: Tuned for a balance of city responsiveness and fuel economy. Hero’s marketing claims a very high mileage figure; many owners report excellent efficiency on city commutes. The Xtreme carries a higher kerb weight, but that adds a feeling of stability in traffic.
-
CB 125 Hornet: Slightly peppier on paper (torque delivered early) and feels lighter to hustle around – thanks in part to a lower kerb weight. The single-channel ABS and USD forks help when you want sharper handling inputs. Expect tauter forks and a crisper initial response than the Xtreme.
Real-world note: Top speed differences are minimal; the deciding factor is rider preference – the Xtreme prioritizes efficient commuting, the CB leans toward an engaging short-ride character.
Features & tech – where Honda pushes ahead
Honda has stacked the CB 125 Hornet with items that feel premium in the 125cc space: a 4.2-inch TFT with Bluetooth navigation assist, USB charging, and golden-finished upside-down forks on certain editions. These are not just showroom candy – the TFT + phone connectivity is genuinely useful for daily riders who navigate urban routes.
Hero’s Xtreme 125R focuses on essentials: an easy-to-read digital cluster, LED lighting, USB charging, and modern safety with CBS/ABS depending on variant. For many buyers, Hero’s no-nonsense list gives more than enough value for money, especially when price and running costs are priorities.
Pricing and Value
Let’s talk numbers. The Hero Xtreme 125R price ranges from Rs. 95,000 to Rs. 1.02 Lakh ex-showroom, with the new single-seat at Rs. 1 Lakh-great for value hunters. The Honda CB 125 price starts at Rs. 1.12 Lakh introductory, positioning it as premium.
In Xtreme 125r vs CB 125 value, Hero offers more power for less cash, while Honda justifies the premium with superior forks and reliability. For first-time buyers, Hero’s affordability shines; for long-haulers, Honda’s build pays off.
| Aspect | Hero Xtreme 125R | Honda CB 125 Hornet |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | Rs. 95K – 1.02L | Rs. 1.12L |
| Engine | 124.7cc, 11.4 BHP, 10.5 Nm | 123.94cc, 10.99 BHP, 11.2 Nm |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 66 kmpl | 48 kmpl |
| Weight | 122 kg | 110 kg |
| Key Feature | Digital Cluster with BT | USD Forks |
Practical ownership: comfort, service & resale
-
Service networks: Hero’s massive dealer and service network across India translates to convenience and lower service friction, especially in smaller towns. Honda’s network is also robust, but when comparing remote locations, Hero often has the edge.
-
Comfort: Seat shape and positioning favor everyday use on both bikes, but the CB’s slightly narrower ergonomics and premium suspension will be appreciated by riders who ride longer distances or prefer sportier feedback.
-
Resale: Both brands hold value well; premium features on the CB may fetch slightly better resale in urban premium markets, while Hero’s ubiquitous presence ensures steady demand across regions.
Short verdict – who should buy which?
-
Buy the Hero Xtreme 125R if: You want the best fuel economy, a lower purchase price, and a reliable, fuss-free commuter with sporty looks. Great for daily city riders and budget-conscious buyers.
-
Buy the Honda CB 125 Hornet if: You want a feature-rich, premium-feeling 125cc with modern tech (TFT + Bluetooth), better handling cues, and don’t mind paying a bit more for those extras. Ideal for young riders who value gadgets and sharper dynamics.
Comparison quick-take
-
Economy & Price: Xtreme 125R wins.
-
Features & Ride Feel: CB 125 Hornet wins.
-
All-round daily use: Tie – depends on whether you prioritize wallet or tech/feel.
User Experiences
From forums, Hero Xtreme 125R owners love its style and punch, but some note minor build quirks like loose panels early on. One user called it “worth the money” for daily commutes.
Honda CB 125 Hornet feedback highlights reliability and comfort, with riders saying it’s “the most reliable bike” in the segment. A fresh perspective: Many switch from Hero for Honda’s service, but miss the Xtreme’s raw energy.
Conclusion
In the Hero Xtreme 125R vs Honda CB 125 Hornet showdown, there’s no clear loser—it’s about your vibe. Hero for bold, affordable power; Honda for refined, premium feel. Test ride both; that’s the real decider.
Ready to hit the road? Share in the comments: Which wins for you—Xtreme 125R or CB 125? Subscribe for more bike battles, or check our guide on 125cc maintenance for tips.
- Subscribe to get more in-depth articles about motorcycle reviews, maintenance tips, and tour itineraries.
- Explore Related Content: Check out our detailed Apache RR 310 vs BMW G310RR in 2025, Which is Better For You. post for performance-oriented options.
- Join Our Community: Follow us on Facebook, Telegram, Instagram, and WhatsApp for real-time updates and rider meetups.
