Honda CB Hornet (2017) Updates

I've been riding the 2017 Honda CB Hornet 160R around Delhi for a while now, and this BSIV-compliant update really sharpened its edge for Indian roads. Priced at Rs 82,095 ex-showroom for the standard variant and Rs 86,595 for the CBS version, it packs a 162.71cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine pumping out 15.6bhp at 8500rpm and 14.76Nm at 6500rpm through a five-speed gearbox, hitting a claimed top speed of 110kmph and around 50-59kmpl mileage with Honda Eco Technology. The new Athletic Blue Metallic and Sports Red colors give it a fresh, aggressive streetfighter vibe, complemented by the mandatory AHO function and a muscular fuel tank on a lightweight 140-142kg frame with 164mm ground clearance that handles potholes effortlessly. It's nimble in traffic with decent disc brakes, though downshifting can feel clunky in peak hours, and the short first gear demands frequent shifts from speed breakers. On highways, it cruises stably at 90-100kmph without stress, offering refined Honda reliability that's perfect for my 50km daily city-highway mix, even if mid-range pull isn't its strongest suit. Deliveries kicked off back then with Rs 5000 bookings, making it a solid pick over rivals like the Gixxer for everyday grunt.

I've been riding the 2017 Honda CB Hornet 160R in India for years, and it remains a standout in the 160cc segment with its aggressive streetfighter styling and punchy 162.71cc air-cooled engine delivering 15.04 bhp at 8500 rpm and 14.76 Nm at 6500 rpm, mated to a slick 5-speed gearbox. Priced at Rs 82,095 ex-showroom Delhi for the standard variant and Rs 86,595 for CBS back in 2017, it introduced fresh colors like Athletic Blue metallic and Sports Red, plus mandatory AHO and BS-IV compliance without power tweaks. Weighing 138-140 kg with a 164mm ground clearance, it handles city traffic effortlessly on 17-inch alloys shod with a wide 140-section rear tire, offering around 48-59 kmpl real-world mileage and a top speed of 110 kmph. Braking via 276mm front disc and 220mm rear (CBS on select trims) feels confident, though some owners note downshifting clunks in traffic and slippery wet grip demanding front brake reliance. Its upright ergonomics, LED tail lamp, and digital console make daily commutes fun, but after nearly a decade, parts availability stays strong at Honda service centers, proving its enduring reliability for Indian roads.

When I first encountered the 2017 Honda CB Hornet 160R in India, I found myself impressed by its aggressive styling and practical engineering that truly resonates with Indian riders seeking a balance between performance and daily usability. Powered by a 162.71cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine delivering 15.6 bhp at 8500 rpm and 14.76 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm, this naked streetfighter proved capable on both city commutes and highway runs, though I noticed the lack of mid-range grunt requires deliberate gear management in traffic situations. The bike's dimensions of 2041mm length and 1067mm height combined with 164mm ground clearance made it reasonably nimble through congested Indian roads, and the 140kg kerb weight enhanced maneuverability significantly. I appreciated the 12-litre fuel tank capacity providing decent riding range, though the claimed 59 kmpl mileage felt optimistic during my real-world testing. The dual disc brake setup with CBS option offered reassuring stopping power, while the 17-inch tubeless tyres gripped well across varying road conditions. Priced at Rs 82,095 for the standard version, this model represented exceptional value for riders wanting a sporty yet manageable middleweight that handles Indian roads with surprising composure and reliability typical of Honda's Indian lineup.

The 2017 Honda CB Hornet 160R remains a notable entry in India's 160cc naked streetfighter segment, and reflecting on this model, I find it represents a significant milestone as Honda's first Made in India motorcycle to achieve BS-IV compliance upon its December 2015 launch. The 162.71cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine delivers 15.04 to 15.6 bhp at 8,500 rpm with 14.76 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox that offers a claimed top speed of 110 kmph and mileage ranging from 50 to 59 kmpl depending on riding conditions. The bike's aggressive styling with its distinctive X-shaped LED tail lamp and beefy fuel tank genuinely impresses, while the 140kg standard weight and 164mm ground clearance make it nimble and practical for Indian road conditions. Available in multiple color options including Athletic Blue Metallic and Sports Red, the standard variant was priced at Rs 82,095 with the CBS variant at Rs 86,595 ex-showroom Delhi. However, riders commonly report mid-range power delivery issues and awkward foot lever positioning for taller riders, which somewhat detract from the overall riding experience during daily urban commutes and highway runs.

Honda has revealed that the CB1000 Hornet will come with three switchable ride modes, an assist and slipper clutch, and Honda’s HSTC traction control system. The bike also includes a 5-inch TFT screen with smartphone connectivity and radial four-pot brakes gripping 310mm rotors. This tech package should enhance the riding experience significantly.

The 2024 Honda CB1000 Hornet is set to debut with a powerful engine derived from the 2017 CBR1000RR Fireblade, producing over 148 horsepower and more than 100 Nm of torque. The bike features a new twin-spar steel frame, LED projector-style headlights, and an innovative air intake system. I think this combination of power and design will make it a standout in the market.

The new CB1000 Hornet boasts a Showa SFF-BP fork and a dual-sided swingarm with a Showa monoshock, providing advanced suspension capabilities. The bike’s design includes a small headlight cowl and forward-jutting panels to smooth airflow and direct air towards the intakes. I believe this attention to detail will improve both performance and aesthetics.

The bike’s bodywork includes a small headlight cowl and forward-jutting panels attached to the fuel tank, which help draw air towards the intakes. This design ensures efficient airflow and contributes to the bike’s overall performance and styling. I think this design element is both functional and visually appealing.

Honda’s CB1000 Hornet is expected to hit the market at the end of 2024, with initial availability speculated to be around March 2024. The bike will be offered in three colors: Grand Prix red, matte iridium gray metallic, and pearl glare white. I think the color options will appeal to a wide range of buyers.

The CB1000 Hornet’s engine is retuned from the 2017 CBR1000RR, offering a significant boost in power compared to its predecessor. This, along with the new frame and suspension, suggests a more agile and powerful riding experience. I believe this retuning will make the bike more appealing to performance enthusiasts.

The CB1000 Hornet will feature a chunky 180/55 rear tire and a 120/70 front tire, along with radial-mounted four-piston Nissin calipers for robust braking performance. This setup should provide ample grip and stopping power, making it suitable for various riding conditions.

Honda has not yet announced the pricing for the CB1000 Hornet, but it is expected to be more affordable than the current CB1000R. The bike’s market positioning as a powerful yet accessible sporty naked bike could make it a strong contender in its class. I think the pricing strategy will be crucial for its market success.

The bike will have full LED lighting and a 5-inch TFT dash with phone connectivity via Honda’s RoadSync app. The combination of modern electronics and powerful engine makes it a compelling choice for riders looking for both style and performance. I think the LED lighting will add a sleek touch to the bike’s design.

The CB1000 Hornet features an air intake system with three louvres to ensure smooth airflow and protect the air filter from rain and spray. This design not only enhances performance but also provides a more audible intake sound for the rider. This innovative solution is a notable highlight of the bike.