The Honda Hornet 2.0 is a sleek and powerful street bike designed for riders who love style and performance. Launched in India in August 2020, it replaced the popular CB Hornet 160R with a bigger engine and modern features. Priced at around ₹1.58 lakh (ex-showroom), this bike offers a perfect blend of sporty design, smooth performance, and practical features for city commuting and weekend rides. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the Honda Hornet 2.0 a top choice in the 180-200cc segment.
Why Choose the Honda Hornet 2.0?
The Hornet 2.0 stands out in the crowded sub-200cc motorcycle market with its bold looks and reliable performance. Whether you’re a young rider seeking thrills or a daily commuter looking for efficiency, this bike delivers. Its lightweight build, advanced features, and affordable price make it a strong competitor against bikes like the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and TVS Apache RTR 200.
Key Highlights of the Honda Hornet 2.0
Here’s what makes the Hornet 2.0 special:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Starting at ₹1,58,079 (ex-showroom, Delhi) |
| Engine | 184.4cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, BS6 Phase 2, OBD2B-compliant |
| Power | 16.7 bhp at 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 15.7 Nm at 6,000 rpm |
| Mileage | 45 kmpl (user-reported) |
| Weight | 142 kg (kerb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 liters |
| Brakes | Front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS |
| Suspension | Upside-down (USD) forks (front), monoshock (rear) |
| Colors | Pearl Igneous Black, Radiant Red Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic, Matte Axis Gray Metallic |
Design and Style
Eye-Catching Streetfighter Look
The Honda Hornet 2.0 boasts a sharp, aggressive design that turns heads. Its LED headlamp with daytime running lights (DRLs) gives it a bold front look, while the X-shaped LED tail lamp adds a sporty touch. The muscular fuel tank with stylish extensions enhances its streetfighter vibe. New graphics introduced in 2025 make it even more appealing, especially in colors like Athletic Blue Metallic and Radiant Red Metallic.
Lightweight and Agile
Weighing just 142 kg, the Hornet 2.0 is one of the lightest bikes in its class. Its compact size (2047 mm length, 783 mm width, 1064 mm height) and 167 mm ground clearance make it easy to handle in city traffic and on rough roads. The 790 mm seat height suits most Indian riders, ensuring comfort during short and long rides.
Performance and Engine
Smooth and Efficient Engine
The Hornet 2.0 is powered by a 184.4cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that meets BS6 Phase 2 and OBD2B standards. It produces 16.7 bhp and 15.7 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox and an assist-and-slipper clutch for smooth gear shifts. While it lacks a sixth gear, the engine performs well in city and highway conditions, with minimal vibrations even at higher speeds (above 5,000 rpm).
Fuel Efficiency
With a user-reported mileage of 45 kmpl, the Hornet 2.0 is fuel-efficient for its segment. Its 12-liter fuel tank offers a decent range, making it ideal for daily commutes and occasional long rides. Users report 50-54 kmpl on highways and around 45 kmpl in city conditions, balancing performance and economy.
Ride and Handling
Nimble and Stable
The Hornet 2.0 shines in handling, thanks to its lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension. The upside-down (USD) front forks and rear monoshock absorb bumps effectively, offering a comfortable ride on uneven roads. The 17-inch alloy wheels with 110/70 (front) and 140/70 (rear) MRF tires provide excellent grip, making it easy to navigate tight corners and busy streets.
Braking Performance
The bike comes with disc brakes on both wheels (276 mm front, 220 mm rear) and dual-channel ABS for safe braking. The ABS prevents wheel lock-up during sudden stops, enhancing safety on slippery surfaces. However, some riders note that the rear brake could have better progression.
Features and Technology
Modern Instrument Cluster
The 2025 Hornet 2.0 features a 4.2-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity via the Honda RoadSync app. This allows riders to access navigation, call alerts, and SMS notifications. The display shows speed, gear position, fuel level, and more, with adjustable brightness for day or night use. A USB-C charging port is also included for convenience.
Additional Features
- LED Lighting: Full LED setup for headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators.
- Traction Control: Switchable traction control for added safety.
- Assist-and-Slipper Clutch: Reduces effort during gear shifts and prevents rear wheel hopping.
- Side Stand Indicator: Cuts off the engine if the side stand is down, enhancing safety.
Comfort and Practicality
The Hornet 2.0 offers a comfortable riding position with mid-set footpegs and an upright handlebar. The split seat provides good support for both rider and pillion, though long rides may feel slightly stiff due to the sporty seating. Its compact dimensions and low weight make it easy to maneuver in traffic, while the 12-liter fuel tank ensures fewer fuel stops.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish and aggressive design
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Fuel-efficient with good mileage
- Advanced features like TFT display and dual-channel ABS
- Smooth engine with minimal vibrations
Cons
- Lacks a sixth gear for better highway cruising
- Plastic panels on the tank feel slightly cheap
- LED headlamp illumination could be brighter
Conclusion
The Honda Hornet 2.0 is a fantastic choice for riders seeking a stylish, powerful, and practical street bike. Its modern features, lightweight design, and reliable performance make it ideal for city commuting and spirited rides. While it has minor drawbacks, such as the absence of a sixth gear and average headlamp brightness, its overall package offers great value for money. If you’re a young rider or an adventure enthusiast, the Hornet 2.0 is worth considering for its blend of style, performance, and affordability.
FAQs
What is the price of the Honda Hornet 2.0 in India?
The Honda Hornet 2.0 starts at ₹1,58,079 (ex-showroom, Delhi). On-road prices may vary by city, for example, ₹1,71,738 in Kolkata and ₹1,88,793 in Mumbai.
What is the mileage of the Honda Hornet 2.0?
The bike offers a user-reported mileage of around 45 kmpl, with 50-54 kmpl on highways and 45 kmpl in city conditions.
What are the color options for the Honda Hornet 2.0?
It is available in four colors: Pearl Igneous Black, Radiant Red Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic, and Matte Axis Gray Metallic.
Does the Honda Hornet 2.0 have ABS?
Yes, the 2025 model comes with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety during braking.
Is the Honda Hornet 2.0 good for long rides?
The bike is comfortable for short to medium rides, but its sporty seating may cause slight discomfort on very long journeys.
Where can I buy the Honda Hornet 2.0?
You can book the Honda Hornet 2.0 at Honda BigWing dealerships or online platforms like Bajaj Mall, with EMI options available.
