Honda Hornet 2.0: The Honda Hornet 2.0 is Honda’s re-entry in the high-end 180-200cc motorcycle segment in India.
Slammed suspension, hotbike looks, solid performance with the backing of a solid manufacturer The Hornet 2 is well styled and has the right performance to make a good hearty mix of sporty and usability.
Aimed at college students and young working professionals who want more than a basic 150cc bike but don’t want it to be something bulky, unwieldy or pedestrian, this machine is designed to deliver attitude, presence and decent performance without going over the top.
Stylish design and a sporty appearance
The design of the Hornet 2.0 is one of its most prominent aspects.
It looks aggressive and muscular, thanks to the pointed tumour-like tank extensions, the slashing graphics, and the wide fuel tank that contributes to its big-bike feel.
Speaking of modern the all-LED lighting package (including the headlamp, indicators and the tail lamp) plays a major role in that.
On the front the Hornet 2.0 gets golden USD (upside-down) front forks which is a rarity in this segment and one that adds to the premium look of the bike.
Split seat configuration, engine cowl and an X-shaped LED tail lamp bolster the streetfighter image, something which a millennial rider will love to have.
Ergonomic Comfort and Control Built Right In
The bike has a sporty appearance and the riding position is upright and comfortable, which means you can use it for daily commuting or for the occasional weekend ride.
It comes with wide, flat handlebars, a great set-up for carving your way through city traffic, and the 790mm seat height is low enough that a wide range of riders can confidently plant their feet at lights.
The seat is also well-padded and pillion comfort is just about acceptable for short rides.
Footpegs are rear-set but not overly so, so comfort’s not compromised. All in all, it’s the kind of motorcycle that can be used equally well for daily office runs or a quick whip down a twisty road.
Sophisticated Engine’ll do its Performance
The Hornet 2.0 is powered by a 184.4cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that makes 17.26 bhp and 16.1 Nm of torque.
The engine is connected to a 5-speed unit that is effective and precise in action.
Although it won’t set any horsepower records in its class, the engine is so sophisticate, and so smooth that you won’t want to stop riding.
The throttle response is snappy, and the midrange grunt is the range where the bike really sings.
And while it may not have blistering top-end speed, it’s plenty quick enough for spirited city rides and light touring.
What is striking is the polish (in the usual Honda way) and the engine’s unflustered nature even when pushed on.
The claimed fuel efficiency of the Hornet 2.0 is 40 to 45 km mileage (depending on the riding style and traffic), so the running cost is decent.
Ride, Handling, and Braking
The ride and handling element of the Hornet 2.0 is good. Ride quality is generally on the stiffer side but still compliant with both USD forks up front and monoshock at the rear.
It does stay planted in corners and seems solid on the highway. It stifles traffic and feels nimble on its 140mm rear tyre and short wheelbase.
Braking is taken care of by petal disc brakes on both ends and comes with single channel ABS.
Brakes are proper bitey and progressive though in panicky situations on wet roads the lack of dual-channel ABS is something you’ll find out the hard way.
Features and Equipment
The motorcycle comes with a fully digital negative LCD screen displaying all necessary information including gear position indicator, trip meters, fuel level indicator and clock.
Premium feel and quality Switchgear – easy to use. There’s also a new hazard light switch on the Hornet 2.0, which we would imagine will come in super handy for riders commuting at odd hours of the day, when the visibility is quite low.
But it doesn’t have smartphone connectivity, or turn-by-turn navigation, something that’s becoming standard in many competitors now.
Pros:
Sleek and aggressive styling with high-intensity LED lights
Great Tuning and Silky Smooth Running Motor
Comfort design for daily use
Front Upside-down front fork provides better handling and better ride stability
Nice and efficient on fuel and cheap to run and maintain
Cons:
Lacks dual-channel ABS
Lacks Bluetooth and smart connectivity functions
Power output could be better for thrill seekers
Not ideal for touring or high-speed usage
Honda Hornet 2.0: Final Verdict
Honda Hornet 2.0 is the intelligent choice for someone looking for an attractive, practical and sporty street bike with Honda’s proven engineering and splendid performance.
It may not be the speed demon of its class, but it excels with its fit and finish and styling and comfort.
Perfect for the urban run, the daily grind and weekend chases, the Hornet 2.0 is a viable option in the sub-200cc power commuter segment for the young rider who prefers that little bit of style without sacrificing everyday use.