EXCLUSIVE: Honda May Soon Launch Its Hornet 2.0 Based Adventure Bike In India

(The Honda CB200X has been launched in India at Rs 1.45 lakh. To know the full specification, availability and other details, read this story)

• It will be based on the same 200cc platform as the Hornet 2.0.
• Expect the engine to be tweaked to suit the bike's character.
• May feature long travel suspension, a slightly larger fuel tank, and mounting points for panniers.
• Expected to be launched by November this year.

Honda’s been on a roll since 2020. The shift in focus from commuter-centric models to more performance-oriented bikes could only spell good news for us enthusiasts. It all started with the Hornet 2.0, which was followed by a range of models such as the CB350, the CB500X, and the CB650 range, all sold under Honda’s Big Wing Dealerships. And from the looks of it, the company’s set to refocus on the 200cc entry-level segment.

What cements this claim is the new NX200 trademarked filed by the bikemaker. The business had already showcased its intentions of entering the small-capacity ADV segment with the CX-02 concept. To add to this, the Japanese manufacturer already sells the CB190X in China, which is one of its cheapest ADVs. It makes sense to branch out into different segments since Honda already has its 200cc platform (Hornet 2.0) in place. 

Honda India’s interpretation of this ADV may be slightly different from the one sold in China. It could basically take design cues from both the CB190X and the CX-02 concept to introduce a sharp-looking ADV, specifically designed for the Indian market. As is the case with most ADVs, the design could be front-heavy with a full-LED headlight, a tall windscreen, knuckle guards, and provisions for luggage mounts.

But don’t expect a hardcore off-road machine. Instead, the NX200 could be a road-biased tourer like the CB190X. This means we can expect long travel suspension, raised handlebars, a revised footpeg position for an upright riding posture, and better seat cushioning. The 17-inch wheels and tyres from the Hornet 2.0 are likely to be carried over to keep costs in check. 

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The powertrain may be unchanged as well. So expect to see the same 184.4cc air-cooled single-cylinder from the Hornet 2.0, making 17.27PS at 8500rpm and 16.1Nm at 6000rpm. Its 5-speed transmission may be carried over as well. That said, we really hope Honda retunes the engine to match the bike’s touring capabilities. 

We reckon the NX200 could be priced around Rs 1.45 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), about Rs 15,000-Rs 16,000 pricier than the Hornet 2.0. As for its launch timeline, the ADV could be introduced in the market by November 2021. It will lock horns with the Hero XPulse 200T.