Honda introduces a revamped CB125F for 2021, now 11kg lighter, and equipped with a low friction eSP engine improving fuel economy.
Developed at Honda’s Atessa facility in southeast Italy, the 2021 Honda CB125F boasts a new and improved engine offering better fuel efficiency. It’s obviously inspired by its bigger CB relatives while maintaining the friendly and easy-to-ride demeanor expected from entry-level, urban commuter motorcycles.
2021 CB125F Large Project Leader Ken Tomiyasu seems to agree, “For us, benchmarks are important. So, we have set about a quiet revolution with our all-new CB125F, keeping its useful around-town performance but adding much greater fuel economy. It also features advanced low-friction technologies in the eSP engine, confident handling from its chassis, and looks that an owner can be really proud of. We are very proud that so many people will begin their motorcycling journey with Honda on CB125F, and know that it will provide pleasure and practicality in equal measure.”
So what is ‘new’ then, you ask?
For starters, the steel tubular frame and the eSP engine suspended off its central spine is undoubtedly new. Engineering know-how from their range of 125cc scooters has been filtered down to the new fuel-injected 124cc 2-valve SOHC single-cylinder eSP (enhanced Smart Power/ EURO5-specification) engine.
Besides, new measures to lower friction have been employed like the off-set cylinder, a rocker-roller arm with needle-bearings for valve operation, and piston oil-jet cooling that vastly improves the fuel economy by a claimed 27 percent margin (188.4mpg on a full tank).
Other notable features include a 5-speed gearbox, a pair of 18in. five-spoke aluminum rims, 31mm forks, and twin rear shocks.
The CB-family design influence shows up in the broad-shouldered fuel tank, the silver side shrouds, the angular nose fairing, and the fly screen. The new digital dash offers all sorts of information and is a welcome change.
When it comes to performance, the Honda CBR125F surely isn’t the fastest thing out there, but it still hauls its weight quite well. It is reported to have a peak power of 8kW, delivered at 7,500rpm, with a peak torque of 10.9Nm at 6,000rpm. Not precisely a wheelie machine, I’ll give you that, but who’s complaining? The CBR125F is definitely not intended to be a sports bike, but if you need a cheap but reliable, easy to maneuver but still fun-to-ride motorcycle, the CBR125F might be what you are looking for.
Download your Honda CB125F service manual here!
