Check Out This New Honda Scrambler!

The CB190SS borrows its powerplant from the CBF190R, just like the Hornet 2.0 sold in India

Neo-retros are the order of the day, and this genre of motorcycle is becoming available in smaller and smaller displacements with each passing day. The newest kid on the block is the Honda CB190SS scrambler that has just been updated for 2021. Its stylish and premium looks belie its humble underpinnings: the CB190SS borrows its 184cc powerplant from the CBF190R, the same bike that acts as an engine donor to the Hornet 2.0 sold right here in India.

Design execution on the SS is rather excellent--the combination of the sculpted red fuel tank, grey body panels and brown seat works well; and neat touches like the white stripe on the fuel tank, stainless steel exhaust system, wire-spoke wheels and golden brake caliper add drama and contrast to the design. A silver or golden finished USD fork would’ve gone a long way in completing the design, but hey, we can’t have everything.

If the CBF190R’s figures are anything to go by, the SS should produce around 16.8PS and 16.3Nm, sent to the rear wheel via a 5-speed gearbox. Features include semi-digital instrumentation with USB charging, LED lighting and the safety net of ABS.

Neat as it may look, these pictures are probably as close as we’ll ever get to the CB190SS, because Honda has not expressed any desire to bring this bike to India anytime soon.