KTM 125 Duke vs Honda CB125R
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The KTM 125 Duke and Honda CB125R are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Honda CB125R undercuts the KTM 125 Duke by about $500, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the KTM 125 Duke leads on power with 15 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.
Our pickKTM
KTM 125 Duke
Honda
Honda CB125RThe verdict
The KTM 125 Duke edges it overall at 8.2/10, but the Honda CB125R wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB125R
A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Honda CB125R
15 hp and 0.12 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Honda CB125R
Our 7.8/10 at $4,999, the most bike per dollar.
Honda CB125R
130 kg with an 816 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
KTM 125 Duke
Our top score in this matchup at 8.2/10.
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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KTM 125 Duke vs Honda CB125R: your questions answered
Which is faster, the KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB125R?
The KTM 125 Duke makes the most power at 15 hp and 12 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB125R?
The Honda CB125R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $4,999.
Which is lighter, the KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB125R?
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 KTM 125 Duke or the Honda CB125R?
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.