Honda CB125R 2018: small, but to dream big [ROAD TEST]

The phenomenon of small-displacement motorcycles is now consolidated and the main world manufacturers compete in a field made of uncompromising choices to please (and before that conquer) an audience such as that of 16-year-olds, who are increasingly prepared and demanding. Honda does not shy away from the challenge and with its CB125R it makes a very specific choice: to propose a motorcycle with high quality standards for a transversal audience.

Aesthetics and finishes:

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A 125 only in numbers

The first thing we said when we picked up this Honda CB125R for our test was “Wow!”. At first, quick glance, in fact, it doesn't seem like you're looking at a motorcycle with such a small displacement. The lines perfectly reflect those of the bigger CB300R sisters (with which it shares 80% of the components, here is our proof) and CB1000R (here is the article of our preview test). The low exhaust is a declaration of intent on Honda's part and a challenge to other manufacturers: “Try to do better“. Beyond the dimensions, we are riding a real motorbike, with a beautiful digital dashboard full of information, but easy to consult. Every detail is taken care of to the best: from the wiring to the lines of the platforms, nothing has been overlooked. The 41 mm upside down fork, the petal brake discs, the abundance of LEDs and the LCD instruments with white writing on a black background (as in Honda sports bikes) make it still resemble a "miniature" CB1000R. The "Neo Sports Café" style then makes it extremely modern and fashionable.

Engine and performance:

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Honda's 125 screams and pushes straight away

The Honda CB125R features a 124,7 cc four-stroke, two-valve, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. The starting is electric and the fuel injection. The engine is capable of delivering power of 13,3 HP at 10.000 rpm and maximum torque of 10,4 Nm at 8.000 rpm. The 6-speed gearbox allows you to make the most of the engine's power and torque, giving you quick shots at traffic lights and remarkable ease of driving. The Honda PGM-FI electronic fuel injection guarantees precise response to throttle control at any speed. The compact low exhaust, with a two-chamber muffler, produces a nice deep sound and contributes to lowering the center of gravity for the benefit of driving. Beyond the numbers, we are in the presence of a very lively and brilliant engine, as much as is possible for a 125 (which, remember, by law cannot exceed 15 horsepower). By opening the throttle the response is immediate and the CB is ready to take off both at the traffic lights and around bends, where you can have fun playing with the gearbox and taking advantage of the qualities of a motorbike which can truly be a preparatory means for dreaming, one day, a higher displacement and more performing. The only limit, probably, lies in the fact that delivery at medium-low speeds has been favored and therefore a bit of verve is lacking in acceleration. This, however, leads to the almost total absence of vibrations, for example, but also to an enjoyment in the tourist guide, usually unknown for eighth-liter models.

Ride and handling:

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Agile in traffic and precise around bends

Getting on the Honda CB125R gives you an immediate feeling of comfort and above all of having everything under control. The controls on the handlebar are placed at the right distance and within reach of the "finger". It is clear that ergonomics were the center of attention. The LCD screen offers a lot of information, but it never distracts the pilot. Once you insert the key and start the engine you appreciate the beautiful sound of the single-cylinder 125. Once you engage first gear it's all fun. The riding position is slightly tilted forward, a little aggressive, but very comfortable. It almost feels like riding a motard and this excites us even more. The new CB125R weighs just 125,8 kg with a full tank of petrol, a value that guarantees exceptional handling on the road and maneuverability when stationary. The feet rest firmly on the ground and even maneuvering in very narrow spaces is simple.

The frame, made with a tubular steel structure with pressed and shaped stiffening gussets, guarantees an optimal balance between lightness and resistance which, translated, means an immediate response to the rider's stresses. The 41 mm upside down fork is effective and with the rear swingarm, with adjustable preload shock absorber, it allows you to accommodate potholes in the asphalt and have great "confidence" even when cornering at high speed. Just choose the line to follow, point the rope and then the bike will take care of the rest. At the stop then there are no problems: the braking system with floating disc and four-piston radial caliper is equipped with ABS with the gem of the IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) control unit. In short, you brake hard, in a small space and without the risk of dangerous blockages.

Price and consumption:

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“Mini” consumption to go a long way

The tank has a capacity of 10,1 liters and the company declares an average consumption in the VMTC cycle of 48,2 km/l, not far from what we found in our test. In practice, with 15 euros of fuel you can travel almost 500 km, which will allow you to forget about the petrol station during the week, but also plan some nice (and long) trips out of town at the weekend. The price? 4.490 euros ex dealer. A fair figure, especially if you consider the overall construction quality and the fact of being able to ride an entry level motorcycle only in terms of displacement. The Honda CB125R will entertain you, garnering many looks of admiration and will allow you to gain a lot of experience before choosing a higher displacement.

PROS AND CONS
We like it:
The handling and overall quality of the bike
We do not like it:
The absence of a little more punch at high revs

Make and model MY2018: the Motorionline Report Card

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Tester clothing:
Gloves, jacket, trousers and shoes: Spidi
Helmet: Caberg

The tester also wore a Spidi Back Warrior back protector, a detail that is anything but marginal and should always be used on a motorbike, even starting with a 125 like this.