The Honda CB125F is an interesting motorcycle in Pakistan’s 125cc segment. Essentially a refreshed version of the Honda Deluxe 125, it brings a few meaningful upgrades, including alloy wheels, electric start, a front disc brake and revised styling.
But is it actually a better daily commuter, and does it justify its price?
Design and Features
The CB125F shares much of its DNA with the Honda Deluxe 125. However, Honda has introduced several changes to give it a more modern appearance.
The most noticeable differences include:
- Alloy wheels instead of traditional spoke rims.
- Electric start.
- Front disc brake.
- Revised fuel tank and front cowl design.
- Updated rear styling.
The overall frame, engine architecture and several other components remain largely similar to the Deluxe.
It also retains the familiar analogue instrument cluster, without a gear-position indicator.
Comfort and Riding Experience
One of the CB125F’s biggest strengths is its riding comfort.
Compared to the traditional Honda CG125, it offers a more relaxed riding position, a slightly taller stance and a longer seat that accommodates two people comfortably.
The handlebar positioning, weighted bar ends, comfortable levers and relatively soft clutch make it enjoyable for everyday use.
Despite its taller profile, the motorcycle is surprisingly easy to manoeuvre through traffic. Its slim design and responsive handling make city commuting relatively effortless.
For someone who regularly rides in congested urban environments, this is a significant advantage.
Engine Performance and Acceleration
The CB125F features an overhead-valve (OHV) engine, similar in architecture to the CG125.
However, its performance feels slightly different. The engine delivers impressive low-end and mid-range response, giving the motorcycle a strong acceleration character.
Its biggest attraction is its ability to pull without frequent downshifting. Even in higher gears, the engine feels reasonably responsive and continues building speed.
The motorcycle produces noticeable vibrations, particularly through the seat and handlebars. However, the weighted handlebars help reduce some of the vibration felt by the rider’s hands.
Fuel economy is approximately 35–40 km/l, depending on riding conditions and throttle input.
The claimed riding experience suggests a top speed in the region of 110–115 km/h under suitable conditions, although actual performance depends on the motorcycle’s condition and other factors.
Handling and Braking
The CB125F feels particularly comfortable when navigating city traffic.
Its slim profile, manageable weight distribution and responsive steering allow it to move easily between vehicles.
The front 240mm disc brake provides reasonable stopping power, while the rear continues to use a drum brake.
The braking setup is adequate for everyday riding, although it is not particularly impressive by modern standards.
The suspension feels slightly firm, especially in its standard setup. However, its robustness can be useful on rough roads and uneven surfaces.
With 18-inch wheels at both ends, the CB125F offers a practical combination for everyday Pakistani road conditions.
Maintenance and Reliability
Like most Honda motorcycles, the CB125F is relatively straightforward to maintain.
Regular oil changes, air-filter cleaning and chain lubrication should keep it running reliably.
Honda’s extensive dealership and service network is another advantage.
However, there is one limitation: the CB125F and Deluxe were never particularly high-volume sellers. Consequently, certain model-specific components may not always be readily available.
Nevertheless, the underlying mechanical setup is familiar, and routine maintenance should not be a major concern.
Honda CB125F vs Yamaha YBR125
The CB125F and Yamaha YBR125 offer different riding experiences.
The YBR125 has a more refined engine and generally delivers a smoother riding experience.
However, the CB125F has its own appeal, particularly for riders who enjoy strong acceleration and a more energetic engine character.
While the YBR is arguably the more refined motorcycle, the CB125F offers a distinctive combination of comfort, handling and performance.
Is the Honda CB125F Worth Its Price?
At approximately PKR 396,600, the CB125F feels expensive.
In my opinion, a price closer to PKR 300,000–320,000 would make it a much more attractive proposition.
There are also a few improvements worth considering. Adjusting the engine mountings could help reduce vibrations, while upgrading the seat could make longer rides even more comfortable.
Despite its price, the engine remains one of its strongest selling points.
Final Verdict
The Honda CB125F is an underrated motorcycle in Pakistan’s 125cc category.
It offers a comfortable riding position, enjoyable acceleration, good manoeuvrability and a practical overall package for daily commuting.
It may not have the refinement of the Yamaha YBR125, nor the popularity of the Honda CG125, but it has a personality of its own.
For riders who appreciate a responsive engine and an engaging riding experience, the CB125F is certainly worth considering.
The biggest problem with this motorcycle isn’t its performance. It’s the price.
At the right price, the Honda CB125F could have been one of the most interesting choices in Pakistan’s 125cc segment.
