New Honda CB125F

The CB125F’s 124.7cc, air-cooled fuel-injected OHC 2-valve engine is tough, proven and efficient. Bore and stroke is set at 52.4 x 57.8mm, with compression ratio of 9.2:1. The cylinder head has been revised for 2015 and the addition of a balancer shaft neutralises vibration. The 5-speed gearbox provides a wide spread of useful ratios. Peak power of 7.8kW arrives at 7,750rpm, with maximum torque of 10.2Nm delivered at 6,250rpm.

But numbers tell only half of the story; focus of the engineering team was around the powerplant’s real-world user friendliness – in other words, strong low and mid-range torque, with excellent throttle response for smart acceleration from a standstill in urban riding. The engine’s pick up and throttle response is noticeably stronger.

Fuel economy of 51.3km/l (WMTC mode) provides a range of over 600km between fill-ups from the 13-litre tank and the PGM-FI employs the latest solenoid, making for much easier starting in extreme cold or adverse weather. For 2017, the engine also complies with the stringent new EURO4 regulations, under which the allowable limits for exhaust tailpipe pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrous oxide, are approximately half of those for EURO3.

With strong desire for naked motorcycles of all capacities throughout Europe, the CB125F channels its larger siblings’ street style with a broad-shouldered and muscular ‘mass forward’ stance. Angular side shrouds extend forward from the fuel tank and the contoured side cowls narrow neatly, minimizing the height difference between rider and pillion. The compact nose cowl surrounding the multi reflector headlight and dash display completes the aggressive new look. Clear indicator lenses and orange bulbs add a stylish finishing touch.

The engine, exhaust downpipe and muffler, fork lowers and wheels are blacked out, underlining the crisp lines and bright paintwork. Subtle red detailing is to be found on the shock springs and Honda logo on the engine crankcases. It's a bike built to endure the rigours of European weather, whilst its new style, build quality and finish add greatly to owner satisfaction.

The integrated steel frame suspends the engine from a sturdy central spine and features geometry that provides the best balance between ride comfort and straight line stability, with a focus toward light steering input and sporty feel at all lean angles. Rake and trail are set at 26° and 97mm with wheelbase of 1295mm. Kerb weight is just 128kg.

Dual rear shocks offer 5-step spring preload adjustment and complement the 120mm telescopic fork’s compliance and ride quality; stylish six-spoke 18-inch aluminium front and rear wheels increase stability and ride quality over rough city streets. Tyres are sized 80/100 front and 90/90 rear. A 240mm front disc is worked by a double piston caliper, with back up from the 130mm rear drum.