Honda CB Hornet 160R to be launched soon

HMSI recently launched the CBR 650F at their RevFest this week and showcased the new CBR 150R and 250R. But what’s more important to regular motorcycle enthusiasts is the new CB Hornet 160R that was showcased. The new Hornet 160R is going to be launched soon and will replace the Honda Trigger. Powered by the same  tried and tested 160cc Honda Unicorn engine the new Hornet should have the same output figures of 14.5bhp@8000rpm and a max torque of 14.6Nm@6000rpm. On the looks front, it gets a more stylish and sporty design which was lacking in the Unicorn160.

The Hornet gets a new headlight design with pilot lamps, a shorter single-piece handlebar but the same digital instrument console as that on the Unicorn160. Tank shrouds have been added to the petrol tank to give it a more muscular sporty look and aluminum like side panels give it a slightly premium look. The most unusual design element though is the tail light which is X shaped. We are guessing this was done to entice the younger generation of riders who want a little pizzazz on their motorcycle. 

The Hornet comes with both front and rear petal disc brakes and braking is helped with Honda’s patented combi-brake system. The suspension remains the same as the Unicorn160 but surprisingly the tyre sizes on the Hornet is larger. The Hornet will be sporting a 100/80 -17 in the front while the rear gets a 140/70 – 17 and also gets 10 spoke alloy wheels.

Now even though the Hornet does come with Honda’s HET technology for better fuel efficiency, the larger tyres may work against a high mileage number. That being said, we always prefer bigger tyres on our motorcycles. We’ll be able to tell you more once we get to ride the motorcycle for a bit.

We can expect the Hornet to be priced a little higher than the CB Unicorn160 and will compete against the likes of the Yamaha FZ-S V2.0 and the Suzuki Gixxer, in the 150-160cc class and naked motorcycle segment.