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Head to head

Honda CB125R vs Zero FXE

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The Honda CB125R and Zero FXE are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Honda CB125R undercuts the Zero FXE by about $7,496, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Zero FXE leads on power with 46 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

Honda CB125R
Our pick
7.8

Honda

Honda CB125R
Zero FXE
7.4

Zero

Zero FXE

The verdict

The Honda CB125R edges it overall at 7.8/10, but the Zero FXE wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

Honda CB125R

A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.

Most exciting

Zero FXE

46 hp and 0.35 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

Honda CB125R

Our 7.8/10 at $4,999, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

Honda CB125R

130 kg with an 816 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

Honda CB125R

Our top score in this matchup at 7.8/10.

Price & rating
Price$4,999$12,495
KickTheStand score7.8 / 107.4 / 10
Performance
Engine125cc singleElectric
Power15 hp46 hp
Torque11.6 Nm106 Nm
Power-to-weight0.12 hp/kg0.35 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension41mm Showa USD forkn/a
Rear suspensionMonoshockn/a
Front brakesSingle 296mm disc, radial 4-pistonn/a
Rear brakesSingle 220mm discn/a
Dimensions & practicality
Weight130 kg131 kg
Seat height816 mm836 mm
Fuel capacity10.1 Ln/a
Suitability
ClassNakedNaked
A2 licenceYesYes
Good for beginnersYesYes
Best forlearning, commutingcommuting

Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.

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Honda CB125R vs Zero FXE: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Honda CB125R or the Zero FXE?

The Zero FXE makes the most power at 46 hp and 106 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Honda CB125R or the Zero FXE?

The Honda CB125R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $4,999.

Which is lighter, the Honda CB125R or the Zero FXE?

The Honda CB125R is the lightest at 130 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the Honda CB125R or the Zero FXE?

For a new rider we'd point to the Honda CB125R: A2-legal, 15 hp and 130 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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