The 2026 Honda CB125R has officially made its global debut, bringing with it a sharper visual identity and a refreshed colour palette that instantly elevates its street appeal. While Honda has chosen to retain the proven mechanical setup, the updated styling injects new energy into the motorcycle, making it feel more youthful and premium without compromising its original character.
Staying true to Honda’s Neo Sports Café design philosophy, the CB125R continues to stand out as one of the most sophisticated motorcycles in the 125cc segment. With high-quality components, modern technology, and clean aesthetics, it remains a benchmark for entry-level premium street bikes in global markets.
Bold New Colour Options Enhance Street Presence
For the 2026 model year, Honda has introduced four fresh colour options that perfectly complement the CB125R’s muscular café racer-inspired bodywork. These new shades are designed to appeal to younger riders while maintaining a refined, upmarket feel.
New 2026 Honda CB125R colours include:
- Matt Rock Gray
- Matt Lucent Silver Metallic
- Zefiro Blue Metallic
- Matt Pearl Diaspro Red
Each colour enhances the bike’s sculpted tank shrouds, minimalist tail section, and signature round LED headlamp. Despite being the smallest motorcycle in Honda’s Neo Sports Café lineup, the CB125R carries the same aggressive and premium design language seen on larger models like the CB300R and CB650R.
Neo Sports Café Design That Still Feels Premium in 2026
Honda has wisely avoided unnecessary design changes for 2026, as the CB125R already features a timeless and well-balanced look. Its compact proportions, exposed frame elements, and sharp detailing continue to appeal to urban riders and beginners looking for a stylish yet practical motorcycle.
What truly sets the CB125R apart is its premium fit and finish. High-quality paintwork, solid panel alignment, and carefully crafted metal components ensure that the bike never feels like a basic entry-level machine. This attention to detail reinforces Honda’s reputation for reliability and long-term durability.
Refined 125cc Engine Tuned for Everyday Riding
Powering the 2026 CB125R is the familiar 125cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 15 bhp. Paired with a smooth 5-speed gearbox, the engine delivers predictable and linear power—ideal for city commuting, daily use, and new riders gaining confidence on two wheels.
The four-valve head and efficient cooling system help maintain consistent performance while keeping fuel efficiency in check. This balance between usability and refinement is a major reason why the CB125R remains popular in markets where learner-friendly motorcycles are in high demand.
Premium Hardware That Redefines the 125cc Segment
One of the biggest strengths of the Honda CB125R is its class-leading hardware package. Honda offers features that are rarely seen in the 125cc category, making the bike feel far more advanced than its displacement suggests.
Key premium components include:
- 41mm Showa SFF upside-down front forks
- 296mm front disc with radial-mounted 4-piston caliper
- Rear disc brake with ABS
- IMU-based lean-sensitive ABS
- Lightweight 130 kg kerb weight
This setup results in confident braking, sharp handling, and excellent stability—especially in urban riding conditions. From a safety and technology perspective, the CB125R comfortably outperforms most motorcycles in its class.
Why the 2026 Honda CB125R Is Unlikely to Launch in India
Despite its impressive specifications and premium appeal, the Honda CB125R is not expected to launch in India. The advanced components, global manufacturing standards, and imported parts would push the price well beyond what most Indian 125cc buyers are willing to pay.
Honda’s India lineup already focuses on value-driven models such as the Shine 125, SP 125, and CB125 Hornet, which are better aligned with local market expectations. While enthusiasts continue to admire the CB125R, its positioning makes it a niche product unsuitable for mass-market pricing in India.
2026 Honda CB125R Key Specifications
| Model Year | 2026 |
| 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 |
Final Thoughts on the 2026 Honda CB125R
The 2026 Honda CB125R continues to prove that a 125cc motorcycle can look, feel, and perform like a premium machine. With updated colours, unchanged but impressive hardware, and a refined engine, it remains one of the most desirable entry-level street bikes in global markets. While it may not arrive in India, its presence further strengthens Honda’s reputation for quality-focused motorcycle engineering.
Hi, I’m Akshay Malhotra, the founder and author of Faros. I created this platform to share my interest in smartphones and automobiles with people who want clear, honest, and easy-to-understand information. I enjoy researching new smartphone launches, car and bike updates, specifications, pricing, and real-world features that actually matter to users. My focus is always on writing original and unbiased content that helps readers make better decisions without confusion.