Honda CB 125 T (1977-1986) Review: A Timeless Twin for the Everyday Rider

Introduction

The Honda CB 125 T stands as a testament to an era when small-displacement motorcycles weren't just beginner bikes - they were engineering statements. Produced from 1977 to 1986, this parallel-twin 125cc machine offered riders a taste of "big bike" character in a lightweight package. While modern riders might dismiss 125s as mere learner machines, spending time with the CB 125 T reveals surprising depth. Let's explore why this Japanese classic remains relevant decades later.

Design & First Impressions

At first glance, the CB 125 T appears to shrink the CB750 formula into a pocket-sized package. The teardrop tank, twin shock absorbers, and chrome-accented exhausts give it proper classic motorcycle proportions. Despite its modest 128 kg (282 lbs) wet weight, there's a substantial feel to the tubular steel frame that inspires confidence.

The cockpit is refreshingly simple - an analog speedometer with integrated warning lights, basic switchgear, and narrow handlebars that strike a balance between sporty ergonomics and commuting comfort. The bench seat, while firm by modern standards, provides adequate support for hour-long rides. Paint quality on preserved examples still impresses, with deep metallic finishes that put some modern budget bikes to shame.

Engine & Performance

The star of the show is undoubtedly the 124cc air-cooled parallel-twin engine. With 17 PS (12.5 kW) at 10,500 RPM, these numbers seem modest until you experience the surprisingly eager power delivery. The 180-degree crankshaft gives it a distinctive thrum that's lightyears away from the buzzy single-cylinder engines dominating today's 125cc class.

Cold starts require patience - 2-3 minutes of choke operation brings the twin to its 1,300 ± 100 RPM idle speed. Once warmed up, the twin Mikuni carburetors deliver crisp throttle response. Acceleration feels brisk for its class, with the 15/39 sprocket combination (paired with a 112-link chain) providing strong low-end pull. You'll hit 90 km/h (56 mph) comfortably, with a top speed around 105 km/h (65 mph) for brave riders in full tuck.

What surprises most is the engine's willingness to rev. The counterbalanced design keeps vibrations manageable up to 8,000 RPM, making highway riding less taxing than expected. Fuel consumption averages an impressive 30-35 km/l (70-82 mpg), though the 11.5L (3.0 gal) tank limits range to about 350 km (217 miles).

Handling & Ride Quality

The CB 125 T's chassis shines in urban environments. The 55/45 weight distribution makes low-speed maneuvers effortless, while the 18" wheels (2.75 front, 3.00 rear) offer stability over imperfect roads. Tire pressures are critical here - Honda recommended 2.0 bar (29 psi) front and 2.0-2.5 bar (29-36 psi) rear, which modern radial tire users might find low but works perfectly with period-correct crossplies.

At speed, the non-adjustable telescopic fork and dual shocks reveal their limitations. Bump absorption is adequate for smooth roads, but sharp edges send noticeable feedback through the bars. Still, the 1,280mm wheelbase and conservative steering geometry inspire confidence in corners. Braking is purely mechanical - the single 240mm front drum requires firm lever pressure by modern standards, but offers decent progression once you adapt to its character.

Competition

In its era, the CB 125 T faced fierce competition:

1. Yamaha RD125 (1973-1981):
   The liquid-cooled two-stroke twin offered 27 PS and superior acceleration, but demanded premixed fuel and more frequent rebuilds. The Honda's four-stroke reliability and lower running costs appealed to practical buyers.

2. Suzuki GT125 (1976-1982):
   Another two-stroke twin with rotary valve induction. While faster than the Honda, its peaky powerband and higher maintenance needs made the CB 125 T better suited for daily commuting.

3. Kawasaki KH125 (1976-1980):
   A single-cylinder two-stroke that undercut the Honda's price, but couldn't match its smoothness or premium feel.

Modern competitors like the Yamaha MT-125 offer triple the power and modern tech, but lack the CB's mechanical charm and simplicity. For vintage enthusiasts, the Honda's twin-cylinder engine and classic styling remain unique in the 125cc class.

Maintenance

As a MOTOPARTS.store journalist, I can confirm the CB 125 T's reputation for mechanical simplicity makes it ideal for DIY maintenance:

Valve Adjustments:
With both intake and exhaust valves requiring 0.05-0.08mm clearance (cold), checking every 3,000 km is straightforward using basic feeler gauges. Our store stocks shim kits for precise adjustments.

Oil Changes:
The 1.5L sump (with filter) thrives on SAE 10W-40. We recommend MOTOPARTS.store's synthetic blend for improved cold starts and reduced top-end wear.

Carburetion:
The factory's 1.25-1.5 turns out on air screws suggests a slightly rich mixture - perfect for ethanol-blended modern fuels. Our Mikuni VM22 rebuild kits address worn jets from stale gas.

Chain Care:
The 112-link chain lasts longer when paired with our premium O-ring kits. Match the stock 15/39 sprockets for original gearing, or try our +1 tooth rear for relaxed highway cruising.

Ignition:
NGK CR8HS plugs (0.6-0.7mm gap) remain available. Upgrade to iridium variants for extended service intervals.

Brakes:
Stick with organic brake shoes from our inventory - modern sintered compounds can overwhelm the drum's heat dissipation.

Tires:
While original 3.00-18 sizes are rare, we stock vintage-style radials that maintain classic looks with modern grip.

Ownership Experience

Living with a CB 125 T in 2024 reveals unexpected joys. The narrow 695mm seat height welcomes shorter riders, while the upright riding position avoids wrist strain during city commutes. Storage options are limited - our universal tail racks bolt directly to the rear frame loops.

Cold mornings demand proper choke technique, but once warmed up, the twin settles into a soothing rhythm. Vibration becomes noticeable above 85 km/h (53 mph), making it better suited for backroad touring than interstate dashes. Still, there's magic in wringing out every last horsepower - you'll find yourself smiling more at 60 km/h (37 mph) than on any 1000cc superbike.

Parts availability remains strong through MOTOPARTS.store's network. From gasket sets to complete engine rebuild kits, keeping these twins running costs less than maintaining many modern scooters.

Custom Potential

The CB 125 T's aftermarket support makes it a canvas for creativity:

• Cafe Racer: Clip-ons and our solo seat conversion kits transform it into a miniature TT racer
• Scrambler: Install our high-mount exhaust and dual-purpose tires for light off-road capability
• Restomod: Hidden LED lighting and electronic ignition updates improve reliability without losing vintage charm

Our store's CB125-specific section offers everything from performance camshafts to stainless steel bolt kits for concourse restorations.

Conclusion

The Honda CB 125 T occupies a unique niche - too classic to be modern, too refined to be crude. While objectively outpaced by contemporary 125s, its twin-cylinder heartbeat and honest mechanics offer something most modern bikes lack: soul.

For new riders, it teaches mechanical empathy. For seasoned enthusiasts, it's a reminder of motorcycling's simpler joys. And for MOTOPARTS.store customers, it represents endless opportunities to personalize, maintain, and enjoy a true two-wheeled icon.

Whether you're keeping one stock or modifying it beyond recognition, visit MOTOPARTS.store for all your Honda CB 125 T needs - because classics deserve modern support.

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Specifications sheet

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