Honda CB Hornet 160R: Final Long Term Review Report

After nearly a year in the ZigWheels long-term fleet, I got my hands on the CB Hornet 160R. I wanted the bike for a very odd reason - its tail light. Of course, I wouldn’t buy it for that, but the X-shaped LED unit is distinctive and largely highlights the 160R’s main selling point; its looks. The muscular tank adds quite a bit of aggression, but it isn’t over the top. The new special editions look pretty great too, but since I found the Hornet’s design mature, I’d like to see some single-tone paint schemes added soon.

My only apprehension was the ride comfort. I’m a tall chap and my daily ride is a popular 350cc cruiser (no cookies for guessing the make and model), so ride comfort is of utmost importance to me. Fortunately, the riding posture is sporty, but not so aggressive that you strain your wrists. The controls fall to hand easily, but I do wish the instrument display backlighting was brighter. If you’re a broad-shouldered chap, you will be wanting for wider mirrors as well, especially when you have your riding gear on.

While the design speaks of aggression, the engine is more of an urban slicker. Unlike most Hondas, the 163cc engine has a gruff edge to it, which I really like. Low-end torque delivery is just about enough, but thanks to tall 2nd and 3rd gears, it’s the mid-range performance that shines through. However, while the in-gear acceleration is decent, I found myself downshifting for most overtakes. It’s here, that you find yourself wanting for more power because the highway performance leaves you wanting for more. The engine gruff note turns brash above 80kmph and it feels more strained than a bike, in this segment, should, at this speed. A little more power and a slicker gearbox would’ve really enhanced the Hornet as a package.

It is, however, very easy to handle and stability is good even on rain lashed roads. The dual-disc brakes get a big thumbs up from me especially because of the combi-brake system. Even on slippery surfaces, hard-braking is a stable affair. Speaking of the monsoons, the bike did face minor niggles post weeks of heavy downpour. The switchgear got a little rough to use and the headlamp switch was a little loose. Additionally, if you have a pillion, the stylish mudguard does let a small amount of road spray reach the grab rails.

So what have I learnt? Well, the CB Hornet 160R is a capable, comfortable and attention grabbing urban tool. The aggressive design and eco-centric engine make it a great upgrade for someone moving up from a 125cc bike and that, I feel, is this motorcycle’s selling point. It looks great in your parking spot, is efficient and agile enough for daily usage, and is, above all else, approachable for bikers from displacements above and below.

Total kilometres done: 5,235km

Fuel Efficiency: 45kmpl (overall)

Date Acquired: December, 2015

Cheers:  Mid-range performance, Distinctive styling

Sneers: Engine vibes, Lacklustre high-speed performance