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Honda Launches Brand-New CBF125 at Intermot Cologne 2008

The key to the extraordinary success of Honda’s 125cc motorcycles may be the fact that its small displacement offerings benefit from the same technical expertise, the same long experience and the same pride in craftsmanship as the company’s larger displacement machines. Some of the qualities of Honda’s bigger bikes are particularly appreciated by 125cc customers. Rock-solid reliability and excellent handling at a reasonable price are perhaps more important in this class than in any other. The long-running and much-loved CG125, for example, has been a phenomenal success among learners, teachers, commuters and anyone who just wants a bike that will go anywhere and do anything year after year. Durable, dependable, affordable, easy to use and maintain, it represents independence, convenience and stress-free daily transport for millions of satisfied customers.

The 125cc market is undergoing something of a revolution, however. With fuel prices rising rapidly and individual responsibility for the environment growing, all kinds of urban travellers are looking at the option of using a motorcycle to get around. Fun and fast, it’s also hassle-free, particularly in this class where the need for an additional licence is eliminated. In other words, 125cc motorbike riders are no longer limited to learners and those who just want to get around easily. Increasingly, there is a demand for a new kind of 125cc motorbike. One with just that little bit extra: strong enough performance to extend its convenience and fun factors to all kinds of situations; styling and comfort on a par with larger displacement machines. And, ideally, one that combines these features with the solid dependability and easy handling that you would naturally expect from a Honda.

As an answer to these demands, the brand new Naked CBF125 is a true gem. One look is all it takes to know it is destined to become a standard in its class. One ride, and you will never look back. Because as well as being reliable; as well as offering comfort and convenience in an attractive package that won’t break the bank, the CBF125 is simply a very desirable motorbike. Whether it’s your first motorbike or your first Honda, it will open the door to a new world of freedom, pride and satisfaction. And whether or not it leads to bigger challenges and dreams, it’s very unlikely that you will ever let this one go. Welcome to the world of Honda!

Development concept

Sales figures are testament enough to Honda’s expertise in the creation of successful entry bikes - machines that are easy to own and manage and instill confidence and pleasure for years on end. Honda’s incredibly versatile Naked machines are a huge success among commuters who revel in their sharp looks, sporty performance and deft maneuverability in town traffic. The CBF125 is an outstanding combination of the best of all these features.

Developed for learners, commuters and anyone else who is interested in using two-wheels to get around the city, it benefits from the same attention to detail that has been lavished on the larger Honda Naked machines. And where some 125cc motorcycles are developed merely as stepping stones to bigger and better things, or functional but rather ordinary workhorses, the CBF125 was created to be cherished.
Its fuel injected engine was designed to deliver more power and torque for a pleasurable ride feel that’s both satisfying and confidence-building. Its fuel efficiency is unrivaled and, in combination with minimal maintenance, makes running costs incredibly cheap. It operates with the least possible impact on the environment, and easily within EURO-3 emission level stipulations.

The chassis is light, responsive and a joy to play with in town traffic. A large and powerful front disc brake provides assured and, again, confidence-building stopping power that adds to its overall feeling of safety and stability. Its styling also sets it well apart from its peers. Sporty, sleek, modern and distinctly European it has a style and character that are unmatched in this class. Comfortable and practical, even two-up, it features a superb build quality and a host of styling and convenience features that will make ownership a long-lasting source of pleasure and pride.

Styling

Developed specifically for the European market, the CBF125’s full-featured styling borrows much from its bigger Naked and semi-faired brothers. The overall lines are compact, sinewy and sports-inspired. The front end smoothly integrates an attractive half-cowl with a small, tinted windscreen that offers the comfort of wind protection at higher speeds. The raised handlebars and raised bridge have a classic Naked appeal and, in combination with the low seat create a comfortable upright riding position that allows a reassuringly clear view of surrounding traffic. The instrument panel is also clear and easy to read, featuring a large speedometer and indicator lights, and a highly practical fuel gauge. The entire assembly is set in a sporty carbon fibre-inspired background pattern that gives it a clean, functional appeal. The frontal design also cleanly integrates a pair of large, brilliant multi-reflector headlights, presented in a chic and almost feline design that’s unique to this new model and accentuates its dynamic profile.

The compact (but generous) 13L fuel tank complements the muscular and aerodynamic lines of the front, and features a tasteful spreading Wing graphic that gives it an assertively sporty presence and declares the quality of its heritage.

It’s a look that means business, and the attention to detail doesn’t stop there. The neat rear profile is also sharply aerodynamic and is set off by a nifty wedge-shaped tail-light and a pair of bright clear lens indicators with amber bulb indicators in an eye-catching array that’s also unique to this motorbike. Simple and effective, its high visibility is an important safety as well as styling feature, presenting a striking view to following motorists. Incidentally, the tail-light bulb can be quickly and easily changed when necessary, with practical access from the underseat space.

Available colour schemes

The CBF125 will make its debut in three colours that befit its basic Naked heritage and display its sinewy bodywork and special design features to their full advantage. At the head of the trio is a fresh, vibrant red that boldly underlines the motorcycle’s dynamic character and sporty tendencies. There’s also a black version that lends a luxurious gleam to the bike’s compact and elegant profile. Lastly, a shimmering metallic silver version quietly emphasises the new CBF’s classic elegance. All colours feature a contrasting stripe and a special Honda Wing graphic on the tank.

• Sports Red
• Black
• Space Silver Metallic (with White)

Engine

The CBF125’s heart is a high-performing fuel-injected, single-cylinder air-cooled engine with a high lift cam and 5-speed transmission. Lightweight and compact, it provides a sensational (and 125cc Naked class-leading) 8.3kW of usable power and 11Nm of immensely satisfying torque. The fuel injection system’s long intake and connecting pipes provide an optimal airflow that contributes to quick pickup speed and fast acceleration away from the lights and ahead of city traffic. A multi-map CDI system ensures power delivery is strong, smooth and easy to manage throughout the performance range. Gear changes are light, smooth, easy and confidence-building.

High fuel efficiency

With both time and fuel at a premium the fuel-injected CBF125 proudly leads its class in fuel efficiency as well, delivering well over 600km on one tank.* As well as cutting down on fill-up stops and lowering maintenance responsibilities to virtually nil, this presents a very attractive cost saving.
*Honda figures obtained in test conditions.

Suspension and brakes

In combination with its tubeless tyres, the CBF125’s suspension is designed to complement the overall feeling of easy control while delivering a superior level of comfort. At the front a compliant 30mm telescopic fork provides smooth-driving assurance. With 115mm stroke, handling remains confident even on bumpy secondary roads and less predictable city streets. At the rear a long rectangular box-section type swingarm is supported by a pair of rugged conventional spring-loaded dampers that smooth out bumps and increase ride comfort as well as enhancing the stable ride feel, even with a passenger on the back. The spring preload is easily adjustable to suit rider preference, and load requirements.

Control of the CBF125’s sporty performance is reassuringly smooth and secure everywhere, and its stopping power is no exception. Its front wheel is stopped by a quick-reacting 240mm hydraulic disk brake with 2-pod calliper. Strong and lightweight it gives a feeling of easy control that’s as welcome in busy city traffic as it is on faster rides. It’s perfectly balanced by a strong and reliable 130mm drum brake at the rear, giving a feeling of assured handling and total control in any situation.

More Hi-Rez images in the gallery

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