Honda Custom CM125: A Timeless Classic Reimagined

The Honda CM125 Custom is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic motorcycle design, offering a blend of retro aesthetics and modern practicality. This lightweight cruiser, launched in 2014, has captured the hearts of riders seeking an accessible and stylish entry point into the world of motorcycling. But is the CM125 Custom truly a worthy successor to the legendary CB125, or does it fall short of its predecessors?

A Familiar Silhouette, Modernized:

The CM125 Custom draws heavily on the design language of its forebears, particularly the iconic CB125. Its sleek, minimalist lines evoke a sense of classic motorcycle charm, with a low-slung profile and a raked-out front end that gives it a laid-back stance. The chrome accents, including the exhaust pipes, headlight bezel, and mirrors, further enhance its retro appeal. However, Honda has incorporated modern touches to ensure the CM125 Custom feels contemporary. The LED taillight and indicators, along with the digital instrument cluster, provide a subtle nod to modern technology without compromising the bike’s vintage charm.

A Comfortable Ride for All:

The CM125 Custom is designed with comfort in mind. Its low seat height of 775mm makes it accessible to riders of varying heights, while the wide, plush saddle provides ample support for extended rides. The relaxed riding position, with forward-set footpegs and a slightly raised handlebar, encourages a comfortable and upright posture, making it ideal for cruising around town or enjoying leisurely weekend rides. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers provide a smooth and compliant ride, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road.

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1 Honda Custom CM125: A Timeless Classic Reimagined

A Reliable and Efficient Powerplant:

At the heart of the CM125 Custom lies a 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, a tried-and-tested unit that delivers reliable performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces a modest 10.9bhp at 7,500rpm and 9.8Nm of torque at 6,000rpm, offering adequate power for city riding and cruising on open roads. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it’s surprisingly responsive and smooth, with a linear power delivery that makes it easy to ride. The five-speed gearbox provides smooth shifts, and the engine is known for its durability and low maintenance requirements.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality:

One of the CM125 Custom’s biggest strengths is its impressive fuel economy. The air-cooled engine and lightweight design contribute to its frugal nature, allowing riders to enjoy extended journeys without frequent fuel stops. Honda claims a fuel efficiency figure of 74.3 mpg, making it an economical choice for daily commuting or weekend adventures. The bike also features a spacious under-seat storage compartment, providing ample space for carrying essentials like a helmet, gloves, and other personal items.

Handling and Performance:

Honda Custom CM125: A Timeless Classic Reimagined

The CM125 Custom is designed for ease of use and maneuverability. Its light weight, responsive engine, and forgiving suspension make it a breeze to handle in tight spaces and navigate through city traffic. The low center of gravity provides stability and confidence, while the wide handlebars offer good leverage for maneuvering. While the CM125 Custom is not designed for aggressive riding or track days, it’s capable of handling twisty roads with ease, thanks to its agile nature.

Braking and Safety:

The CM125 Custom features a single disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its intended use. While the braking system is not the most powerful in its class, it offers reliable performance and provides a reassuring level of control. The bike also features a standard set of safety features, including a headlight, taillight, turn signals, and a horn, ensuring visibility and safety on the road.

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A Value Proposition for Beginners and Experienced Riders Alike:

The Honda CM125 Custom is a compelling motorcycle for riders of all experience levels. Its accessible design, comfortable riding position, and user-friendly handling make it an ideal choice for new riders seeking a gentle introduction to the world of motorcycling. Experienced riders will appreciate its classic styling, reliable performance, and economical nature, making it a perfect choice for leisurely rides and commuting.

Honda Custom CM125: A Timeless Classic Reimagined

Here’s a breakdown of the CM125 Custom’s strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths:

Classic Styling: The CM125 Custom’s retro design is timeless and aesthetically pleasing.
Comfortable Ride: The relaxed riding position and plush seat make it comfortable for extended rides.
Reliable Engine: The air-cooled single-cylinder engine is known for its durability and fuel efficiency.
Fuel Economy: The CM125 Custom is incredibly fuel efficient, making it a cost-effective option.
Maneuverability: The bike is light and agile, making it easy to handle in tight spaces.
Accessible Price: The CM125 Custom is relatively affordable, making it a great entry-level motorcycle.

Weaknesses:

Limited Power: The engine is not particularly powerful, limiting its performance on open roads.

Basic Braking: The braking system is adequate but not as advanced as some competitors.
Limited Customization: The CM125 Custom has limited aftermarket support for customization.
Suspension: The suspension is basic and may feel harsh on rough roads.

Comparisons with Competitors:

The CM125 Custom faces stiff competition from other lightweight cruisers, including the Suzuki GN125 and the Yamaha V Star 125. While the CM125 Custom excels in its classic styling and fuel efficiency, its competitors offer slightly more power and advanced features.

Suzuki GN125: The GN125 is known for its simplicity, affordability, and rugged reliability. It offers a similar riding experience to the CM125 Custom but lacks its retro aesthetics.
Yamaha V Star 125: The V Star 125 offers a more modern design and slightly more power than the CM125 Custom. However, it is also more expensive.

Overall, the Honda CM125 Custom is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a compelling blend of classic style, comfort, and practicality. While it may not be the most powerful or feature-rich bike in its class, its affordability, fuel efficiency, and timeless design make it a strong contender for riders seeking a stylish and accessible entry point into the world of motorcycling.

Here are some additional insights and tips for prospective buyers:

Consider your riding style and needs: The CM125 Custom is best suited for commuting, leisurely rides, and cruising around town. If you’re looking for a more powerful or sporty motorcycle, you may want to consider other options.
Explore customization options: While the CM125 Custom has limited aftermarket support, there are still some customization options available to personalize your bike.
Test ride before you buy: It’s always a good idea to test ride a motorcycle before you buy it to ensure it suits your needs and riding style.

In conclusion, the Honda CM125 Custom is a charming and affordable motorcycle that offers a classic riding experience with modern touches. It’s a great choice for beginners and experienced riders alike, providing a blend of style, comfort, and practicality that’s hard to resist.

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