How does a sub-200cc naked streetfighter sound? Oh, and it’s priced south of $2,000.
For the longest time, commuter motorcycles have been the embodiment of function over form—plain, uninspiring, and built for the sole purpose of getting you from A to B. But lately, something interesting has been happening, particularly in the Asian market.
Manufacturers are realizing that commuters don’t have to be boring. In fact, they can be stylish, fun, and even a little exciting. Just look at what Yamaha did with the MT-15 and XSR155 —scaled-down versions of their middleweight streetfighters. Suzuki’s doing it too with the GSX-S150 and GSX-R150, both inspired by their bigger, badder GSX siblings.
And now, Honda ’s back in the game with the 2025 Hornet 2.0 in India.
Styling-wise, this thing's every inch a Honda Hornet.
The name ‘Hornet’ carries some serious weight in Honda’s lineup. In Europe, it graces the CB750 Hornet and CB1000 Hornet — both suitable for middleweights and litre-class streetfighters. Although the Hornet 2.0 does not come close in terms of performance compared to them, it adopts the same assertive design philosophy and presents it as an approachable, user-friendly option for daily use. This is precisely what gives this motorcycle appeal, particularly within markets such as India.
At the core of the Hornet 2.0 is a 184.40cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine designed to comply with the updated OBD-2B emissions standards. This motor delivers 16.8 horsepower at 8,500 revolutions per minute and generates 15.7Nm (or approximately 11.6 pound-feet) of torque at 6,000rpm. While these figures may be marginally less impressive compared to previous models, we must remember that this bike remains primarily intended as a commuter rather than a high-performance vehicle built for racing or carving through mountain roads. Honda has long been recognized for producing robust engines, and this model continues that legacy. The motorcycle comes equipped with a five-speed transmission system coupled with a slip-and-assist clutch mechanism, ensuring seamless shifting during urban commutes and swift transitions between gears.
The most significant update for 2025 doesn't involve the engine or chassis; instead, it's all about technology. The new Honda Hornet 2.0 comes packed with features that elevate it towards premium naked bike territory. This model now includes a 4.2-inch TFT screen offering smartphone integration through Bluetooth, along with Honda’s RoadSync application, GPS-guided directions, and message notifications. In terms of safety enhancements, it boasts dual-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)—a sophisticated term for traction control—a feature that is just beginning to gain popularity within this category.
The standout upgrade is the new full-color TFT screen.
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Mechanically, Honda hasn’t messed with the formula. The Hornet 2.0 still rides on a diamond-type frame, a gold-finished USD fork at the front, and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 276mm front and 220mm rear disc setup with dual-channel ABS. It’s light, too, tipping the scales at 142 kg (313 pounds), making it an easy, flickable machine for daily commutes. The 12-liter fuel tank should also provide decent range between fill-ups.
Honda has priced the Hornet 2.0 at Rs 156,953, which translates to roughly $1,895 USD. That’s right, you get a proper, sporty-style naked bike for under $2,000. I’m sure folks in the US would go crazy over a deal like this. Plus, Honda’s built a reputation for making bikes that just work—day in, day out, no fuss. And the Hornet 2.0 fits that mold perfectly.
Source: Honda Motorcycles And Scooters India