2020 Honda CBF190R vs Bajaj Pulsar 180F BS6: Specifications Comparison
Here’s how Honda’s newest naked fares against its Indian arch rival, the Bajaj Pulsar 180F BS6
Here’s how Honda’s newest naked fares against its Indian arch rival, the Bajaj Pulsar 180F BS6
The design of the 2020 Honda CBF190R has been patented in India, giving rise to all kinds of speculations of its launch in the country. If it is indeed launched in the country, it will go head-to-head against the Bajaj Pulsar 180F BS6. Here’s how they fare against each other spec-wise:
Engine
The 2020 Honda CBF190R’s engine seems to be tuned with a good balance of both power and torque. On the other hand, the Pulsar 180F’s engine is biased towards power. So, despite having a slightly smaller motor, it is slightly more powerful. But it loses out on torque to the Honda. This coupled with Honda’s lighter kerb weight of 142kg (as opposed to the Pulsar 180F’s 156kg kerb) should make it a lot sprightlier than the Pulsar out in the real world.
Underpinnings
The suspension on the Honda CBF190R is more sophisticated compared to the Bajaj Pulsar 180F. Inverted fork is traditionally lighter than its conventional counterpart. A monoshock suspension also offers more uniform damping than twin shock absorbers. It helps in keeping the bike stable at higher speeds as well. Petal discs have greater surface area compared to normal discs, thus resulting in more efficient cooling.
Dimensions & Features
The Bajaj Pulsar 180F’s greater ground clearance should help the bike go over bad roads with ease. Moreover, it should also offer higher range theoretically, thanks to the fuel tank that’s bigger by 3 litres. However, low speed maneuvering should be easier on the Honda as it is a whole 14kg lighter. The reduced weight should also have a positive effect on the bike’s average mileage.
As far as the feature list is concerned, the 2020 Honda CBF190R comes with an all-LED lighting system and a fully digital instrument cluster. On the other hand, the Bajaj Pulsar 180F BS6 features a projector headlamp, LED tail lamp and bulb indicators. It gets a quarter fairing and split seat setup for added sportiness. Both bikes come with raised clip-on handlebars for a good balance of sporty and comfortable riding stance.
Price & Verdict
All in all, the Bajaj Pulsar 180F makes sense for enthusiasts who want the legendary Pulsar 220F’s genes in a more accessible, affordable package. It makes sense for Honda to bring the 2020 CBF190R to India as it will compete in the sparsely populated 180-200cc segment. It would be the ideal spiritual successor to the CB Hornet 160R and will also offer enthusiasts something sporty and modern but doesn't cost a bomb.
All prices ex-showroom, Delhi.