The Honda CB125R—already one of Europe’s most successful and best-selling 125cc motorcycles—has received a stylish refresh for the 2026 model year. Instead of mechanical changes, Honda has chosen to elevate its visual appeal with four striking new colours. With its proven 124.9cc engine, premium Showa suspension, advanced braking components and modern features, the CB125R continues to dominate Europe’s lightweight street motorcycle segment through 2024 and 2025.
The MY26 update strengthens its presence without altering the formula that made it so popular among new riders, urban commuters and style-focused European buyers.
Key Takeaways: MY26 Honda CB125R Update for 2026
- Honda introduces four new colours for MY26: Mat Rock Gray, Mat Lucent Silver Metallic, Zefiro Blue Metallic and Mat Pearl Diaspro Red.
- No mechanical updates—the engine, chassis, dimensions and hardware remain exactly the same.
- Still a European best-seller, maintaining strong demand in 2024 and 2025.
- Powered by a 124.9cc DOHC, 4-valve single-cylinder engine delivering 14.7 bhp and 11.6 Nm of torque with a six-speed gearbox.
- Retains premium hardware, including 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD forks, radial-mounted Nissin calipers and IMU-supported ABS.
- Modern equipment includes a 5-inch TFT colour display and full LED lighting.
- Compact and beginner-friendly dimensions, with 816 mm seat height, 130 kg kerb weight and a 2.3-metre turning radius.
Honda’s 2026 Design Refresh: Four All-New Colours
For the 2026 model year, Honda has chosen a purely cosmetic upgrade for the CB125R, focusing on aesthetics without disturbing the motorcycle’s successful mechanical package. The four new colour options include:
- Mat Rock Gray
- Mat Lucent Silver Metallic
- Zefiro Blue Metallic
- Mat Pearl Diaspro Red
These shades are designed to give riders more personalisation choices while maintaining the motorcycle’s sleek, modern-meets-retro identity. The fuel tank, tail section and front fender carry the colour accents, while the rest of the motorcycle continues with its darkened, muscular look and signature round LED headlamp. This subtle yet stylish refresh aligns the CB125R with Honda’s wider CB family, which has also received colour updates across multiple models for 2026.
Honda confirms that the CB125R has consistently remained one of Europe’s strongest performers in the 125cc market through 2024 and 2025. The MY26 colour expansion aims to sustain that momentum among young riders and entry-level enthusiasts.
Engine and Performance: Proven, Smooth and Beginner-Friendly
The mechanical structure of the CB125R remains unchanged—a decision that will be appreciated by riders familiar with its reliability and approachable performance. It continues to use a 124.9cc DOHC, 4-valve, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing:
- 14.7 bhp at 10,000 rpm
- 11.6 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm
Paired with a six-speed transmission, the CB125R offers enough power for urban commuting while remaining manageable for new riders. The power delivery is smooth, predictable and efficient, making it suitable for daily use and short weekend trips.
This engine setup was originally upgraded in 2021 and later tuned to meet Euro 5+ emission standards in 2024, ensuring long-term compliance and fuel efficiency.
High-Quality Hardware: Premium Equipment in the 125cc Class
One of the major strengths of the CB125R is its hardware, which stands out even among higher-capacity motorcycles. Honda has retained all of these premium components for MY26:
Suspension
- 41mm Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Big Piston) USD forks
- Rear monoshock (non-adjustable)
This suspension setup offers improved ride quality, precise steering feedback and enhanced confidence on city roads.
Brakes
- 296mm floating front disc
- Radial-mounted Nissin four-piston caliper
- 220mm rear disc with single-piston caliper
- IMU-supported two-channel ABS
These braking components are rare in the 125cc segment and ensure stable, controlled braking—especially important for beginner riders.
Dimensions and Handling: Light, Compact and Urban-Friendly
The CB125R is engineered to be exceptionally nimble in crowded European cities. Its geometry and dimensions highlight its agility:
| Specification | Value |
| Wheelbase | 1,345 mm |
| Seat Height | 816 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 130 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 140 mm |
| Turning Radius | 2.3 metres |
| Tyres | 110/70 front, 150/60 rear |
| Overall Length | 2,025 mm |
| Overall Width | 820 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,055 mm |
These proportions make the motorcycle extremely approachable, especially for new riders and smaller-framed users. The light kerb weight helps it feel responsive in traffic and easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
Features and Technology: Modern and Practical
Honda has equipped the CB125R with a set of modern features that remain unchanged for MY26:
- 5-inch TFT colour display
- Full LED headlamp and tail lamp
- Electric starter
- 12V, 5Ah YTZ6V battery
These features enhance visibility, ease of use and rider information accessibility while keeping the motorcycle technologically relevant in the competitive European 125cc segment.
A Timeless Approach to a Popular 125cc Icon
The 2026 Honda CB125R demonstrates that sometimes the smartest update is the simplest one. By focusing exclusively on new colours while retaining its trusted engine, premium suspension, high-spec braking system and compact dimensions, Honda reinforces the strengths that have made this motorcycle a top seller in Europe for years.
The MY26 version remains stylish, beginner-friendly and performance-balanced—continuing to attract new riders and commuters seeking a light, capable and premium 125cc street machine.
FAQs on 2026 Honda CB125R New Colour Update
1. What are the new colour options of the 2026 Honda CB125R?
The 2026 Honda CB125R comes in four new colours: Mat Rock Gray, Mat Lucent Silver Metallic, Zefiro Blue Metallic and Mat Pearl Diaspro Red.
2. Has Honda made any mechanical changes to the MY26 CB125R?
No mechanical changes have been made. The MY26 CB125R retains its same 124.9cc engine, premium hardware, chassis and all existing features.
3. How much power does the 2026 Honda CB125R produce?
The MY26 CB125R generates 14.7 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 11.6 Nm of torque from its 124.9cc DOHC single-cylinder engine.
4. Why is the Honda CB125R popular in Europe?
The CB125R is popular for its premium hardware, reliable engine, light weight, easy handling, modern features and consistent sales through 2024 and 2025.
5. What are the key features of the 2026 Honda CB125R?
Key features include a 5-inch TFT display, full LED lighting, Showa SFF-BP USD forks, Nissin radial brakes and IMU-supported ABS.
