KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Hero Glamour X: tech-loaded commuter motorcycle.
- Honda CB125 Hornet: sporty, premium streetfighter design.
- Glamour X features cruise control, ride modes.
- CB125 Hornet offers USD fork, TFT console.
- Hero excels in value, Honda in sportiness.
2025 Hero Glamour X Vs Honda CB125 Hornet: The 125cc motorcycle space in India has suddenly become one of the most exciting categories. Traditionally seen as the commuter segment, brands are now raising the bar by loading their 125s with features, style and performance that were earlier reserved for larger capacity motorcycles. Two of the newest entrants in this segment - Hero Glamour X 125 and the Honda CB125 Hornet - are perfect examples of this transformation.
While Hero focuses on redefining everyday commuting with tech-loaded practicality, Honda is bringing a sporty, premium flavour to the table. Let's break down how the two stack up against each other. Before moving ahead, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
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2025 Hero Glamour X Vs Honda CB125 Hornet: Design
Hero has taken a bold approach with the Glamour X. The motorcycle features sleeker body panels, aggressive lines, and a more muscular stance than its predecessor. Its LED headlamp cluster, sharp tank extensions and bright new paint schemes lend it a futuristic commuter look.
On the other hand, the CB125 Hornet leans heavily on streetfighter DNA. Inspired by its bigger sibling, the Hornet 2.0, it gets an angular LED headlamp, sporty split seat, colour-matched alloy wheels, and a premium golden USD fork. The Honda feels more youthful and performance-oriented, while the Hero strikes a balance between sophistication and functionality.
Verdict: For everyday polish and commuter-friendly styling, Glamour X has the edge. For pure street appeal and sportiness the CB125 Hornet takes the crown.
Engine and Performance
The Glamour X runs on a 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motor. It produces 11.4 bhp at 8,250 rpm and is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Hero has equipped the engine with a balancer shaft and silent cam chain to improve refinement. What's more, it introduces ride-by-wire technology, which is a rarity at this price point and three riding modes (Eco, Road, Power) to tailor performance.
Honda'S CB125 Hornet uses a 123.94cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, borrowed from the SP125 but tuned slightly higher. It churns out 11 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 11.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm, also mated to a 5-speed transmission. While power figures are similar to Hero's, Honda highlights quicker acceleration with a 0-60 km/h claim of 5.4 seconds.
Verdict: Both engines are commuter-friendly, but Hero's riding modes and ride-by-wire give it an undeniable edge in versatility. Honda, however, positions itself as the livelier option for enthusiasts.
2025 Hero Glamour X Vs Honda CB125 Hornet: Features
Here's where Hero really flexes. The Glamour X introduces cruise control (a first for the 125cc class), three ride modes, and Panic Brake Alert that flashes indicators during hard braking. A fully digital LCD display provides 60+ readouts, including navigation, Bluetooth call/SMS alerts, fuel economy stats, and range-to-empty. It also gets a Type-C charging port and a complete LED lighting package.
Honda has focused on premium cycle parts instead. The CB125 Hornet boasts a gold-finished USD fork, preload-adjustable monoshock, and single-channel ABS. Its 4.2-inch TFT console comes with Bluetooth via Honda's RoadSync app, showing navigation, calls and music information. Full LED lighting completes the package.
Verdict: If gadgetry and segment-first features attract you, the Glamour X is unbeatable. If you want superior cycle parts and a sporty experience, the Hornet makes more sense.
Comfort and Practicality
The Glamour X is designed with daily usability in mind. It has a 790 mm seat height, forward-set footpegs, and 30 mm wider handlebars for relaxed ergonomics. The pillion seat area is larger than before, and ground clearance stands at 170 mm. Hero even provides optional accessories such as a backrest, engine guard, and windscreen, catering to commuters who want practicality and comfort.
The Hornet 125 tilts towards sportiness with a 796 mm seat height and a kerb weight of 124 kg. The riding triangle is slightly sportier than the Hero's, and while it is comfortable enough, it isn't as commuter-friendly.
Verdict: For comfort and utility, Hero is the better choice. For a sport-commuter compromise, Honda does well.
Pricing and Value
Hero has priced the Glamour X aggressively. It starts at Rs.89,999 for the drum variants and goes up to Rs. 99,999 for the disc variant. Honda, meanwhile, asks a premium for its sportiness. Available in a sole variant, the CB125 Hornet is priced at Rs. 1.12 lakh (ex-showroom) This makes the Honda significantly more expensive than the top-spec Glamour X, even though both produce similar output figures.
Verdict: If budget is a major factor, the Hero offers far more for less money. The Honda justifies its price with premium parts and youthful styling.
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Verdict
Both motorcycles approach the 125cc segment very differently. I would advise you to choose Hero Glamour X 125 if you want maximum features, everyday comfort and commuter-friendly practicality without stretching your budget. It is arguably the most futuristic commuter in its class. Meanwhile, the Honda CB125 Hornet suits best for buyers who value sporty styling, premium cycle parts, and brand appeal and are willing to pay extra for a more aspirational 125cc motorcycle.
Final words: At the end of the day, the Glamour X is the tech-packed commuter king, while the CB125 Hornet is the stylish streetfighter choice.
