The 2026 Honda CB125R has officially made its global debut, bringing a refreshed colour palette and a sharper street-focused personality. While Honda has retained the proven mechanical setup, the latest update enhances the motorcycle’s visual appeal, making it look more premium and energetic than ever before.
Built under Honda’s Neo Sports Café philosophy, the CB125R continues to stand out in the entry-level segment by offering high-quality components, advanced safety features, and refined performance. It remains one of the most premium motorcycles in the global 125cc category.
Bold New Colours Enhance Street Presence
For 2026, Honda has introduced four new colour options that elevate the bike’s modern café racer identity:
- Matt Rock Gray
- Matt Lucent Silver Metallic
- Zefiro Blue Metallic
- Matt Pearl Diaspro Red
These updated shades complement the CB125R’s muscular styling and compact proportions. Despite being the smallest motorcycle in Honda’s Neo Sports Café lineup, it carries a strong road presence similar to its larger siblings.
The sculpted tank shrouds, signature round LED headlamp, minimal tail section, and exposed frame detailing give the bike a bold yet refined look. The new colours add freshness without disturbing the original design identity that has made the CB125R popular in European markets.
Neo Sports Café Design That Still Feels Premium
Honda has wisely avoided major design changes for 2026. The CB125R already features a timeless aesthetic that blends retro-inspired elements with modern streetfighter aggression.
The compact body proportions make it ideal for urban riding, while sharp detailing enhances its premium feel. The bike never appears basic, even though it sits at the entry level of Honda’s global lineup.
High-quality paint finish, solid panel fitment, and attention to detail reinforce Honda’s strong reputation for build quality. From the machined aluminum accents to the well-integrated LED lighting, the CB125R continues to deliver a big-bike experience in a small-capacity package.
Smooth 125cc Liquid-Cooled Engine for Daily Performance
The 2026 Honda CB125R retains its familiar and reliable 125cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. This motor produces approximately 15 bhp, which is the maximum power limit for many European A1 license regulations.
Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, the engine delivers smooth acceleration and predictable throttle response. It is designed primarily for daily commuting, city riding, and beginner-friendly performance.
The four-valve cylinder head ensures efficient combustion, while the liquid-cooling system helps maintain stable performance during longer rides. Riders benefit from a balanced mix of responsive power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency, making the CB125R suitable for both new riders and experienced urban commuters.
Premium Hardware That Sets It Apart
What truly differentiates the Honda CB125R from most 125cc motorcycles is its high-end hardware package. Honda offers components typically seen on larger displacement bikes:
- 41mm Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) USD front suspension
- 296mm front disc brake with radial-mounted 4-piston caliper
- Rear disc brake with ABS
- IMU-based lean-sensitive ABS
- Lightweight 130 kg kerb weight
The 41mm upside-down front forks significantly improve front-end stability and handling precision. Meanwhile, the radial-mounted front caliper delivers strong and controlled braking performance.
One of the most advanced features in this segment is the IMU-based lean-sensitive ABS, which enhances safety during cornering by adjusting braking force based on lean angle. This technology is rarely seen in the 125cc category.
The lightweight chassis combined with premium suspension ensures agile handling, making the CB125R highly enjoyable in city traffic and on twisty roads.
2026 Honda CB125R Specifications
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 Caliper
Rear Brake: Disc with ABS
Kerb Weight: 130 kg
Colours: Matt Rock Gray, Matt Lucent Silver Metallic, Zefiro Blue Metallic, Matt Pearl Diaspro Red
Design Theme: Neo Sports Café
Why the Honda CB125R Is Unlikely to Launch in India
Despite its impressive feature list, the Honda CB125R is not expected to launch in the Indian market. The motorcycle’s premium components, advanced safety systems, and global build standards would result in a significantly higher price compared to mainstream 125cc offerings in India.
Indian buyers in this segment typically prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency. Honda already caters to this market with value-oriented models such as the Shine 125 and SP 125. Introducing the CB125R would place it in a price bracket that may overlap with larger capacity motorcycles.
However, motorcycle enthusiasts in India continue to admire the CB125R for its styling, premium hardware, and refined performance.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Honda CB125R may not feature mechanical upgrades, but the refreshed colour options and continued focus on premium components ensure it remains one of the most sophisticated motorcycles in the global 125cc segment.
With its Neo Sports Café styling, smooth liquid-cooled engine, advanced braking technology, and lightweight chassis, the CB125R continues to set high standards for entry-level performance motorcycles. For international markets, it remains a compelling option for riders seeking a stylish, technologically advanced, and well-built 125cc bike.
Hi, I’m Waseem, the founder and author of Matola. I’m passionate about smartphones and automobiles, and I enjoy researching and sharing useful information in a simple and honest way. My goal is to help readers stay updated with the latest technology trends, mobile devices, and auto news without confusion. Through Matola, I aim to provide reliable content that is helpful, user-friendly, and easy to understand for everyone.