The 125cc motorcycle segment in India is buzzing with excitement, and two standout contenders, the Honda CB125 Hornet and the TVS Raider 125, are vying for the attention of young, urban riders. Both bikes combine sporty styling, practical features, and peppy performance, but which one is the better fit for you? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.

Design and Styling: A Battle of Bold Looks

The Honda CB125 Hornet boasts a striking streetfighter aesthetic with sharp, muscular lines and a bold front fascia. Its split LED headlamp, complete with dual DRLs and high-mounted LED indicators, gives it a premium, aggressive vibe. The segment-first golden USD forks and tank-mounted ignition key add a touch of class, making it a head-turner. Available in four dual-tone color options, the Hornet exudes sporty sophistication.

On the other hand, the TVS Raider 125 is no slouch in the style department. Its angular bodywork, aggressive tank shrouds, and sleek LED headlamp with integrated DRLs create a youthful, dynamic appeal. With a more compact design and five color options, the Raider feels tailor-made for city riders who crave agility and flair. While both bikes are visually captivating, the Hornet leans toward a premium, muscular look, while the Raider offers a sporty, urban edge.

Engine and Performance: Powering Your Ride

Under the hood, the Honda CB125 Hornet is powered by a 123.94cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that delivers 10.99 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, it claims a 0-60 kmph sprint in just 5.4 seconds, making it the fastest in its class. Its lightweight 124 kg frame enhances agility, perfect for zipping through traffic.

The TVS Raider 125, equipped with a slightly larger 124.8cc engine, produces 11.4 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.7 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. It hits 0-60 kmph in 5.8 seconds, slightly slower than the Hornet, despite its 123 kg kerb weight. The Raider’s micro-hybrid system and iGo variant offer a torque boost, adding a unique edge for quick acceleration. Both bikes deliver spirited performance, but the Hornet’s quicker sprint and the Raider’s torque advantage cater to different riding styles.

Features and Technology: Modern Meets Practical

The Hornet shines with a 4.2-inch TFT display featuring Bluetooth connectivity via the Honda RoadSync app, offering navigation, call alerts, and music control. It also includes a USB Type-C charging port, single-channel ABS, and safety features like a side-stand engine inhibitor. The TVS Raider counters with a 5-inch TFT display, SmartXconnect tech, and voice commands, alongside features like auto-navigation and riding modes. However, it lacks ABS, which gives the Hornet a safety edge.

Ride and Handling: Comfort for the Road

The Hornet’s golden USD forks and 5-step adjustable monoshock provide a balanced ride, while its 240mm front disc and 130mm rear drum brakes ensure confident stopping. Its 12-liter fuel tank is ideal for longer commutes, though its 166mm ground clearance is slightly lower than the Raider’s 180mm. The Raider’s telescopic forks and monoshock, paired with a lower 780mm seat height (vs. Hornet’s 796mm), make it more city-friendly, especially on rough roads. Its 10-liter tank is smaller but sufficient for daily rides.

Verdict: Which Bike Wins?

Choosing between the Honda CB125 Hornet and TVS Raider 125 depends on your priorities. If you value premium design, faster acceleration, and safety features like ABS, the Hornet is a compelling choice. However, if you prefer a feature-rich experience with voice commands, riding modes, and better ground clearance for urban adventures, the Raider stands out. With the Hornet’s pricing to be revealed on August 1, 2025, and the Raider priced between ₹87,010 and ₹1.02 lakh, affordability may also play a role. Test-ride both to find your perfect 125cc companion.

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