Honda reinvests low-cost with the CBF 125

Titillated by the success of the Yamaha YBR and by that of a multitude of low-cost motorcycles from various origins – China, but also Korea or Taiwan -, Honda launched in January 2009 a new entry-level: the CBF 125. What is worth -it in use ? Test !

The "plus" CG

On the technical side, the CBF 125 takes everything from its predecessor. And it is finely played on the part of Honda, which thus capitalizes on the robust image of its CG: "the CBF takes over the revenue from the CG", insists Jean-Luc Mars, new boss of Honda Moto France.

The new Honda therefore offers as an entry a refined cycle part made up of parts in elementary formats and technologies, perfectly corresponding to its utility status..

The CBF 125 thus consists of small suspensions – there is a 30 mm fork! -, a 240 mm disc brake with double piston caliper at the front and a rudimentary 130 mm drum at the rear and a frame "Diamond" very discretly.

We will still note the presence of nicely designed 6-spoke rims and a large fuel tank: 13 liters, enough to cover 600 km according to the Japanese Honda testers..

As a main course – and "resistance" is the right word – Honda is tightening its timeless single cylinder with single camshaft and two valves. A model of reliability and sobriety, the small air mill is fitted with PGM FI injection which allows it to remain compliant with respect to emission standards.

As for the dessert, the CBF creates a surprise by offering "an additional touch of dynamism, fluidity and sportiness compared to the CG", describe the French managers of the winged brand.

By providing its new entry level with a fork crown and a new trim, the world number one skilfully stands out from the rest of low-cost production, whether Japanese – with the Yamaha YBR in particular -, Chinese – with its multiple copies of Dax -, or other nationalities – Korean for Daelim’s Roadwin, etc..

We regret, however, that certain parts have not been further refined, such as the pot which is not in stainless steel and receives a chrome protection with a slightly "cheap" look, the rear indicators mounted a little too rigid to withstand two parking lots. – overcrowded wheels, and the absence of a watch and tachometer on the dashboard (contrary to what we thought we saw, read)…

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