Honda CBF125 2021 — Specifications

Passionate about performance, watts, stratospheric possibilities, and technological one-upmanship, we sometimes forget about simple motorcycles. Those that take you through daily life, to work, university, or just exploring those small corners of France. The CBF 125 is one of those. And it’s been completely redesigned for 2021.

Appearance… look, and heart. This wasn't just a makeover that Honda gave it. As it needs to meet Euro5 standards, the manufacturer took its versatile little roadster and installed a new engine. Not really more powerful, but with its full range of assets.

This single-cylinder engine is different from previous generations in several aspects. Its internal dimensions have changed, with a longer stroke and a reduced bore. This helps to slightly favor torque, which progresses very slightly (+0.7 Nm); power gains 0.2 kW. The CBF is thus gently powered, in line with its vocation. 10.9 horsepower to weave between buildings, parks, and offices. Don’t confront it with a Duke or an MT-125 – it’s a completely different trip.

At first glance, the engine seems reworked but without fanfare. It still relies on air cooling, 1 ACT, and 2 valves per cylinder. Solutions that aren’t very modern, except for the injection. But the engine specialists have done a lot of work that isn’t immediately visible. Honda has tracked friction at every stage (eSP technologies), installed an alternator-starter, optimized consumption so that this CBF consumes 27% less than its predecessor. The brand announces a thirst of only 1.54 liters per 100 km. Although the tank has lost 2 liters of capacity, its 11 liters allow for 800 km of range in eco-driving. That’s Lille-Bordeaux with a full tank… and a large dose of patience.

A little proud but above all discreet about its evolution, the CBF 125III has a little makeover. More to refresh than to change. New face, improved mudguard, more marked shoulders with inspiration from neo-sport-cafe CB, retro mirrors changed – it seizes a breeze of coquetry. Paradoxically, with more taut lines, the CBF 2015-2020 would almost look more modern.

As a result, it’s impossible to guess that it has lost 11 kilos. The engine block alone has lost 7 kg. Let’s count 1.5 kg less gasoline in the tank, a few grips with the general optimizations, another 1.7 kg on the chassis side, and our 125 CBF drops to 117 kg. Without losing the center stand or the passenger handle.

If the simple steel tubular frame is new, the peripherals continue the doctrine of the ex-CBF. 17-inch wheels on ultra-thin tires, a slender 31 mm fork, CBS combined braking system controlling a 240 mm front disc and its 2-piston caliper + a rear drum, and a pair of adjustable preload shocks are its companions. This new edition of the CBF should gain agility thanks to its reduced weight and shorter wheelbase. Only increase to note, the seat height (+15 mm).

The Honda CBF 125 is urban daily life with a discreet mouse, neat and tidy and not wanting to show off. For the showmanship, the family relies on the CB 125 R. But for utility, the important thing is to improve in a thrifty spirit and live your city.

M.B - Photos manufacturer