Honda CBR125R [2007-2010]: The Gateway to Sportbike Thrills
Introduction
The Honda CBR125R isn't just a motorcycle - it's a rite of passage. For riders graduating from scooters or seeking their first taste of sportbike DNA, this 125cc machine defined accessible performance during its 2007-20110 production run. While its dimensions and power figures seem modest by today's hypersport standards, there's magic in how Honda distilled the CBR experience into a learner-legal package. Let's explore why this pocket rocket remains relevant years after rolling off assembly lines.
Design & Styling: Big Bike Presence
Honda's designers deserve applause for making the CBR125R look like its larger CBR600RR sibling from 10 meters away. The full fairing with twin headlights, layered bodywork, and an aggressive forward lean angle create visual drama belying its 124.7cc heart.
Color options ranged from conservative blacks to vibrant Repsol-inspired liveries, with the 2008-onward fuel-injected models gaining slight graphics updates. At 1,920mm (75.6") long with a 1,294mm (50.9") wheelbase, proportions feel intentionally stretched to mimic 600cc class dimensions. The 31mm telescopic forks and monoshock rear (offering 109mm/4.3" and 120mm/4.7" travel respectively) maintain a taut stance without appearing fragile.
The 776mm (30.6") seat height proves accessible for shorter riders, though taller pilots might find the ergonomics cramped during extended rides. Honda's choice of 17-inch wheels shod with 80/90 front and 100/80 rear tires strikes a balance between quick steering and highway stability.
Engine & Performance: Small Bore, Big Heart
Let's address the elephant in the room first - that liquid-cooled 124.7cc (58x47.2mm bore/stroke) SOHC single delivers 13-14 HP depending on model year. But numbers don't tell the whole story.
Carb vs. Fuel Injection: - 2007 models used a carburetor producing 13HP @10,000 RPM - 2008-2010 switched to PGM-FI injection boosting output to 14HP while smoothing throttle response
The real magic lies in the 10.6Nm (7.8 lb-ft) torque peak arriving at 8,250 RPM. Keep the tach needle between 7,000-10,500 RPM and the CBR feels alive, its 6-speed gearbox allowing precise control over the narrow powerband. Below 6,000 RPM? Expect lawnmower-grade urgency - perfect for parking lot maneuvers but requiring strategic downshifts when tackling inclines.
Top speed sits around 110 km/h (68 mph) indicated, though sustained 100 km/h (62 mph) cruising is feasible with tucked riding. Fuel economy shines at 40-50 km/l (94-118 mpg), making the 10L (2.64 gal) tank good for 400+ km (248+ mi) between fill-ups.
Handling & Ride Experience: Lightweight Agility
At 115-127kg (253-280 lbs) dry, the CBR125R feels featherweight compared to modern 125s burdened with ABS and tech features. This mass centralization gives it ninja-like reflexes:
- Low-Speed Manners: The narrow 795mm seat and 1,294mm wheelbase make filtering through traffic effortless
- Cornering: Neutral steering geometry encourages mid-corner line adjustments. Ground clearance (172mm/6.8") allows decent lean angles before peg feelers touch down
- Suspension: Non-adjustable 31mm forks and monoshock handle city bumps adequately but get overwhelmed at pace. Aftermarket upgrades help for aggressive riding
- Brakes: Single 220mm discs front/rear lack bite but remain progressive. Experienced riders can trail-brake deep into corners
The riding position splits difference between sport and commuter - bars are lower than a naked bike but higher than true supersports. Wind protection proves sufficient up to 90 km/h (56 mph), with turbulence becoming noticeable beyond that.
Competition: 125cc Sportbike Showdown
How does Honda's entry stack against contemporaries?
- Yamaha YZF-R125 (2008+)
- 15HP liquid-cooled 125cc
- Upside-down forks, dual-channel ABS (later models)
- More aggressive ergonomics
-
Verdict: Superior specs but higher maintenance costs
-
Aprilia RS4 125 (2012+)
- 15HP rotary valve engine
- Race-derived chassis
- Premium components (Brembo brakes, Sachs suspension)
-
Verdict: Pricier to buy/repair, focused on track use
-
KTM 125 Duke (2011+)
- 15HP single with trellis frame
- Naked bike ergonomics
- WP suspension components
- Verdict: Better low-end torque but lacks wind protection
The CBR125R's ace card remains Honda's bulletproof reliability. While rivals offered more power or premium parts, none matched its combination of low running costs and dealer network support.
Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive
As MOTOPARTS.store's in-house wrench, here's my CBR125R care bible:
Critical Service Items - Valve Clearances: Check every 4,000 km (2,485 mi) - Intake: 0.06 ±0.02mm (0.0024 ±0.0008") - Exhaust: 0.27 ±0.02mm (0.0106 ±0.0008") - Oil Changes: Every 3,000 km (1,864 mi) using SAE 10W-30 (1.3L with filter) - Coolant: Replace every 2 years/20,000 km (12,427 mi) with ethylene glycol mix - Chain: 124-link DID520V2 works best. Maintain 25-35mm (1-1.4") slack
Common Upgrade Paths 1. Suspension: Progressive fork springs and a YSS rear shock transform handling 2. Brakes: EBC HH sintered pads improve bite without caliper swaps 3. Exhaust: Slip-on systems save weight and enhance midrange (keep DB killer for legality) 4. Ergonomics: Lowered footpegs (+25mm) aid comfort for taller riders
Trouble Spots - Stator Failures: Check charging voltage regularly (13.5-14.5V at 5,000 RPM) - Clutch Cable Stretch: Common on early models. Upgrade to Venhill braided line - Fuel Pump Whine: FI models may need strainer cleaning if stored with old gas
Conclusion: Timeless Appeal
The 2007-2010 CBR125R occupies a sweet spot between approachability and sporting intent. While newer 125s boast tech advantages, none replicate the visceral joy of wringing every last RPM from Honda's jewel-like single. It's a motorcycle that rewards skill without punishing mistakes - the perfect canvas for riders to hone their craft.
Whether you're preserving a pristine example or modifying a high-mileage warrior, MOTOPARTS.store carries the OEM and performance parts to keep your CBR125R running strong. From NGK CR8EIX iridium plugs to DID 520VX3 chains, we've got your back through every service interval and upgrade project.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 10 kW | 13.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 11 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) / Carburettor (2007 model) |
| Max power @: | 10000 rpm |
| Displacement: | 125 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 8250 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 58.0 x 47.2 mm (2.3 x 1.9 in) |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 11.0:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1294 mm (50.9 in) |
| Dry weight: | 127 |
| Seat height: | 776 mm (30.6 in) |
| Overall length: | 1920 mm (75.6 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 172 mm (6.8 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 10.0 L (2.64 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 124 |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Rear sprocket: | 42 |
| Front sprocket: | 15 |
| Maintainance | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 100/80-m17 |
| Engine oil: | 10W30 |
| Front tire: | 80/90-m17 |
| Break fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR8E or NGK CR8EIX |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.8 |
| Coolant capacity: | 1.0 |
| Forks oil capacity: | 0.412 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 1.3 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000km or 2 years, whichever comes first |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.04–0.08 mm |
| Valve clearance check interval: | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.25–0.29 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.25 bar (33 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.0 bar (29 psi) |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Steel diamond type |
| Rear brakes: | Single 220 mm disc |
| Front brakes: | Single 220 mm disc |
| Rear suspension: | Monoshock damper, 120mm travel |
| Front suspension: | 31mm telescopic fork, 109mm travel |
