Honda CB 125 F [2021 - 2022] Review: The Perfect Starter Bike That Grows With You

Introduction

The Honda CB 125 F represents everything a modern entry-level motorcycle should be: approachable, efficient, and built with just enough flair to make new riders fall in love with motorcycling. Designed for urban commuters and weekend explorers alike, this 2021-2022 iteration refines Honda’s decades-long expertise in crafting reliable small-displacement machines. After spending a day threading through city traffic and carving country roads, it’s clear why this bike remains a global favorite for first-time riders and practical commuters. Let’s dive into what makes this CB tick—and why it might just be the ideal companion for your two-wheeled journey.

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Design & Ergonomics: Classic Lines Meet Modern Practicality

The CB 125 F carries the DNA of Honda’s iconic CB series, blending minimalist styling with functional design. Its broad-shouldered fuel tank and silver side shrouds give it a muscular stance that belies its 117 kg (258 lbs) curb weight. The angular nose fairing and LED headlight add a contemporary edge, while blacked-out engine casings and a muted exhaust keep the look clean. Those red rear shock springs? A cheeky nod to sportier siblings, reminding you that fun doesn’t require big cubic centimeters.

Rider Comfort:
With a 790 mm (31.1") seat height, the CB welcomes riders of all statures. The flat bench seat is surprisingly plush for a budget-oriented bike, and the neutral riding position—slight forward lean, knees tucked comfortably—works equally well for gridlock crawls and hour-long joyrides. Passenger accommodations are basic but serviceable, complete with grab rails that double as luggage tie-down points.

Practical Touches:
- Digital Dashboard: A monochrome LCD displays speed, fuel level, gear position, and even a fuel economy gauge. No frills, but perfectly legible in direct sunlight.
- Center Stand: Rare in this segment, it’s a godsend for chain maintenance and parking on uneven surfaces.
- LED Lighting: The headlight punches above its weight class, casting a crisp beam for nocturnal rides.

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Engine & Performance: Efficiency as a Superpower

At the heart of the CB 125 F lies Honda’s eSP (enhanced Smart Power) engine—a 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder that prioritizes longevity and fuel sipping over outright speed. Don’t let the modest 10.7 HP @ 7,750 RPM and 10.4 Nm (7.7 lb-ft) @ 6,250 RPM fool you; this mill is all about usable power.

Real-World Riding:
- City Slicker: Below 60 km/h (37 mph), the CB feels zippy and responsive. Throttle response from the PGM-FI fuel injection is crisp, making stoplight dashes surprisingly engaging.
- Highway Manners: It’ll hold 85 km/h (53 mph) comfortably, but expect vibrations through the pegs and bars if you push toward its 100 km/h (62 mph) ceiling.
- Fuel Economy: Honda’s claimed 67.6 km/l (158.9 mpg) isn’t just marketing fluff. Over mixed riding, we averaged 65 km/l (153 mpg), translating to a 700-800 km (435-497 mi) range from its 11L (2.9 gal) tank.

Maintenance-Friendly Design:
- Air cooling eliminates radiator worries.
- Hydraulic valve lifters mean no manual valve adjustments—a rarity in small bikes.
- Sealed chain reduces lubrication chores.

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Handling & Ride Experience: Lightweight Agility for Every Scenario

Weighing just 117 kg (258 lbs) wet, the CB 125 F handles like a bicycle with a motor. The tubular steel frame and 31mm telescopic forks strike a balance between stability and flickability, while the 18-inch wheels (80/100 front, 90/90 rear) soak up potholes better than sportier 17-inch setups.

Urban Playground:
Filtering through traffic is a breeze—the narrow 784mm (30.8") width slips through gaps larger bikes can’t dream of. The upright riding position gives excellent visibility, and the light clutch pull (thanks to its wet multi-plate design) is a mercy in stop-and-go chaos.

Backroad Bravado:
Push it on twisty tarmac, and the CB rewards with predictable manners. The suspension—basic but well-tuned—keeps things composed over mild bumps, though aggressive cornering will have the footpegs scraping earlier than you’d expect. Braking is adequate, with the 240mm front disc offering decent bite and the rear drum serving as a reliable backup.

Weak Spot:
The 130mm rear drum brake lacks progression—it’s either on or off. Consider upgrading to sintered pads if you frequently ride two-up.

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Competition: How the CB 125 F Stacks Up

1. Yamaha YS125:
- Pros: Slightly sharper styling, 6-speed gearbox.
- Cons: Firmer seat, 5kg heavier, lacks center stand.
- Verdict: The Yamaha edges ahead on highway comfort but trails in city practicality.

2. Suzuki Address 125:
- Pros: Fuel efficiency rivaling the Honda, under-seat storage.
- Cons: Scooter platform limits cornering clearance, less engaging ride.
- Verdict: Ideal for pure urbanites; the CB is better for mixed use.

3. KTM 125 Duke:
- Pros: 15 HP engine, premium suspension, aggressive styling.
- Cons: Higher price, steep maintenance costs, 13L/100km fuel economy.
- Verdict: The Duke is a hoot for enthusiasts, but the Honda wins on cost of ownership.

The CB’s Ace Card:
It splits the difference between commuter scooters and sportier 125s, offering just enough performance to keep things interesting without sacrificing everyday usability.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your CB 125 F in Prime Condition

1. Oil Changes:
- Use 10W-30 JASO MA2 oil—900ml (0.95 qt) with filter changes every 12,000 km (7,456 mi).
- Pro Tip: MOTOPARTS.store stocks Honda GN4 10W-30 kits with OEM filters.

2. Chain Care:
- The sealed O-ring chain requires minimal attention. Clean with a dry brush and apply a PTFE-based lubricant every 500 km (311 mi).

3. Valve Checks:
- Hydraulic lifters mean no manual adjustments—a huge plus for DIYers.

4. Brake Fluid:
- Replace DOT4 fluid every 2 years. Watch for sponginess in the front lever—a common sign of air in the lines.

5. Tire Pressures:
- Front: 1.8 bar (26 psi)
- Rear: 2.3 bar (33 psi)
- Consider upgrading to Michelin Pilot Street Radials for wet-weather confidence.

Common Upgrades from MOTOPARTS.store:
- LED Turn Signals: Boost visibility without taxing the 12V electrical system.
- Gel Seat Pad: For all-day comfort on stock upholstery.
- Adjustable Levers: Perfect for smaller hands.

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Conclusion: A Motorcycle That Masters the Basics

The Honda CB 125 F isn’t about chasing specs or dominating straights—it’s about delivering a frictionless entry into motorcycling. From its bulletproof engineering to its penny-pinching fuel habits, every element feels designed to build confidence in new riders. While seasoned motorcyclists might crave more power or tech, that’s missing the point. This is a bike that excels at turning errands into adventures and commutes into joyrides.

Final Thought:
If you’re after a trusty daily companion that won’t bankrupt you at the pump or garage, the CB 125 F remains unbeatable. And when it’s time to personalize or maintain your steed, remember—MOTOPARTS.store has all the gear to keep your Honda running like Day One.

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Specifications sheet

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