Honda Hornet 2.0 Returns with Bold Design - Features Explained

New Honda Hornet 2.0 is back with a bold design, smooth 184cc engine, USD forks, and great mileage

Introduction

The Honda Hornet 2.0 is back and sharper than ever! It’s aimed squarely at college students, young professionals, and daily commuters who want a stylish ride with reliable performance. With a bold design, refined engine, and smart features, this bike blends sporty aggression with everyday practicality. Let’s dive into the full review.

Design and Styling

 Aggressive Streetfighter Look

The Hornet 2.0 comes with a muscular, chiselled fuel tank and sharp tank extensions that give it a proper streetfighter stance. It sports an angry-looking LED headlamp setup, almost robotic in appearance, paired with sleek LED indicators and a bold X-shaped taillight.

Color Options

The bike is available in four matte shades:

• Matte Marvel Blue Metallic

• Matte Axis Grey Metallic

• Matte Sangria Red Metallic

• Pearl Igneous Black

These colors help it stand out in traffic and scream premium.

 Road Presence and Aesthetic Impact

Despite its compact size, the Hornet commands attention. The sharp cuts, edgy design, and sporty stance make it look bigger than it is. It’s one of those bikes that gets second looks at traffic signals.

Engine and Performance

Engine Specifications

Under the tank, you get a 184.4cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine based on Honda’s HET (Honda Eco Technology). It produces:

• 17.03 PS @ 8500 rpm

• 15.9 Nm @ 6000 rpm

Real-world Performance

The engine performs best in the city. Low and mid-range torque is responsive, making overtakes easy and stop-go traffic smooth. It may not be a highway missile, but it’s no slouch either.

Refinement and Vibration Levels

One area where Honda shines is refinement, and the Hornet 2.0 is buttery smooth. Even at higher RPMs, vibrations are minimal, making daily rides fatigue-free.

Ride and Handling

 Suspension Setup

It’s the only bike in its segment with USD forks (upside-down) at the front and a monoshock at the rear. This setup enhances handling and absorbs potholes better than conventional forks.

Frame and Stability

A diamond-type frame ensures stability, and with a kerb weight of just 142 kg, the bike feels light and agile.

 Cornering and Maneuverability

The 140mm rear tyre offers decent grip, even in wet conditions. Thanks to its short 1355mm wheelbase, the bike is very nimble and takes U-turns or tight gaps with ease.

Braking System

Disc Brakes and ABS Performance

• Front disc: 276 mm

• Rear disc: 220 mm

• Safety: Single-channel ABS

While dual-channel ABS would’ve been better, the current setup still provides safe and confidence-inspiring braking.

Stopping Power in Daily Conditions

Whether it’s a panic stop or daily city braking, the brakes perform well without any drama or locking.

Features and Technology

Digital Instrument Console

The all-digital LCD console displays:

• Speed

• Tachometer

• Gear position

• Trip meters

• Battery voltage

• Clock

• Service reminder

Brightness can be adjusted for daytime or night riding.

LED Lighting and Switchgear

It’s got full-LED lighting, an engine kill switch, and a hazard light switch, adding to both safety and convenience.

Missing Features

No Bluetooth, no turn-by-turn navigation, and no app-based controls — something many rivals are starting to offer.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

City and Highway Mileage

• City: 43–45 km/l

• Highway: 48–50 km/l

This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its segment.

Fuel Tank Range

With a 12-liter fuel tank, you can expect a range of 500+ km on a single tank. That’s impressive for weekend getaways too.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Rider’s Seating Position

The upright handlebars and slightly rear-set footpegs make for a comfortable riding posture, perfect for city commutes and short trips.

 Pillion Comfort

The split seat is well-padded but the rear seat is a bit tight. Not the most pillion-friendly for long hauls, but manageable for short rides.

Build Quality

Honda’s Fit and Finish

Everything — from the switchgear to the paint — screams premium. The matte paint especially gives it a rich look.

Durability Over Time

Owners report minimal rattles, no fading, and consistent performance even after months of use. It’s a Honda, after all.

Honda Hornet 2.0 vs Rivals

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

• More power (20.82 PS)

• Advanced features like ride modes & Bluetooth

• But slightly lower mileage

Bajaj Pulsar N250

• Bigger engine (249cc, 24.5 PS)

• Better top-end power

• But heavier and less fuel-efficient

 Hero Xtreme 200S

• Slightly more power (17.8 PS)

• Fully faired for sporty looks

• Mileage is decent but build quality lags behind Honda

Who Should Buy the Honda Hornet 2.0?

This bike is perfect for:

• Students and young professionals

• Daily commuters who want style + fuel economy

• Riders upgrading from a 125cc or 150cc bike

• People who care about refinement and build quality

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Smooth and refined engine

• Stylish, sharp design

• Excellent build quality

• USD forks – rare at this price

• Great mileage

Cons

• No Bluetooth or connected features

• Only single-channel ABS

• Rear seat is small

• Slightly premium priced

Final Verdict

The Honda Hornet 2.0 may not win drag races, but it will win your heart over time. It’s practical, stylish, and built with care. Perfect for urban riders who want something they can trust every day — without looking boring.

If you're looking for a reliable yet sporty machine for daily use, the Hornet 2.0 is worth every rupee.

FAQs

1. Is the Honda Hornet 2.0 good for beginners?

Yes, it’s beginner-friendly with smooth power delivery, light clutch, and easy handling.

2. Does the Hornet 2.0 have Bluetooth?

No, it lacks Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, which some rivals offer.

3. Can I take the Hornet 2.0 on long rides?

Yes, but short weekend trips are better suited. For touring, dual-channel ABS and better pillion comfort would help.

4. What is the service interval for the Hornet 2.0?

Every 6,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. Honda’s service network is widespread.

5. Is it worth upgrading from a 150cc bike?

Absolutely. The performance jump and improved comfort/features make it a solid upgrade.