Honda CB 125 Hornet & Shine 100 DX Unveiled in India: Crisp, Competitive, Ready for Action

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has just revealed two fresh additions to its lineup: the sporty CB 125 Hornet and the practical Shine 100 DX. These models aim straight at the heart of India’s entry-level bike market-challenging rivals like the TVS Raider 125, Hero Xtreme 125R, Hero Splendor, and Bajaj Platina. Whether you’re looking for a sporty ride or a dependable commuter, these new Hondas offer modern looks, smart features, and likely attractive pricing.

Honda CB 125 Hornet: A Sporty Statement in 125cc

Honda has entered the sporty 125cc race with a bang. The CB 125 Hornet comes packed with aggressive styling and modern tech to appeal to young riders.

Design & Build

• Bold, angular LED headlamp and sharp front fascia give the bike a strong visual presence.
• USD (Upside-Down) front forks provide both a sporty look and stable handling—this is a first in its category.
• A split-seat setup highlights its performance DNA.
• Small wind visor and sporty tail design complete the racer aesthetic.

Tech & Features

• 4.2-inch TFT display compatible with the Honda Roadsync app, offering connectivity, navigation hints, and ride stats.
• Full LED lighting and an onboard USB charging port add modern convenience.
• Single-channel ABS ensures safer braking in city conditions and smooth rides.

Bookings for the CB 125 Hornet open on 1 August 2025, with exact pricing to be announced soon. Given its target rivals, expect a competitive price under ₹1.2 lakh.

Honda Shine 100 DX: Reliable Daily Commuter

On the practical side, the new Shine 100 DX strengthens Honda’s base in the commuter segment. It takes on heavyweights like Hero Splendor and Bajaj Platina 100 with a focus on comfort and fuel efficiency.

Design & Specs

• Traditional yet fresh look with a large chrome-accented headlamp and slim 10-litre fuel tank.
• Comfortable single-piece seat ideal for city rides and short trips.
• Four colour options: Pearl Igneous Black, Imperial Red Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic, and Geny Gray Metallic-a nice palette for daily riders.

Instrument Cluster & Chassis

• A digital LCD cluster provides key info: current and average mileage, fuel range, odometer, and more.
• Turning radius is a tight 1.9 meters, making tight corners and city traffic easier to navigate.
• Smart use of telescopic front forks and twin shocks in the rear deliver stable and comfortable rides.
• Both wheels get drum brakes and tubeless tyres for better cost and maintenance efficiency.

Engine & Performance

• Air-cooled 98.98cc single-cylinder engine generates 7 hp @ 7,500 rpm and 8.04 Nm torque @ 5,000 rpm.
• Paired with a 4-speed gearbox and offering self-start + kick-start, this engine targets fuel efficiency and flexibility.

What Makes Them Different?

• CB 125 Hornet brings style and sporty features to a section of the market usually reserved for commuter bikes. ABS, USD forks, and a TFT screen give it a modern edge over TVS Raider and Hero Xtreme.
• Shine 100 DX remains a no-nonsense commuter with updated instruments, user-friendly features, and a trusted engine. It builds well on Honda’s legacy in this segment.
• With bookings starting early August and prices expected to be competitive, both bikes are set to draw interest from urban commuters and performance-focused riders.

Final Take

Honda has split its strategy with these two launches. The CB 125 Hornet appeals to younger riders who want style, tech, and a sporty feel. The Shine 100 DX stays true to Honda’s commuter roots-simple, reliable, and fuel-efficient. Both models aim to challenge strong rivals in their segments and could become popular choices once sales begin. Expect official availability and pricing details in early August 2025.

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