The CB200X is essentially a spin-off based on the Hornet 2.0, added with fairings and re-engineered ergonomics. Stands as the design inspiration for the iconic Africa Twin CB200X. And from some angles, far and wide, the CB200X appears as heavy as the CB500X.
The LED headlamps are skillfully placed under the short visor which is a gentle reminder of the silhouette of the accomplished ADV motorcycles. Plastic surrounds the 12-litre tank, making the CB200X look front-heavy.
Compared to the Hornet 2.0, the CB200X will charge a premium of Rs 15,000. Reverse LCD cluster, upside-down front forks, mono-shock, diamond frame, 184-cc engine, 5-speed, dual disc brakes with single-channel ABS are among the endless key ingredients shared in the making of the two motorcycles.
How does Honda justify the Rs 1.44 lakh (ex-showroom) price for the CB200X?
Thanks to its ADV inspiration, the CB200X is one of the most comfortable motorcycles under the 200-cc class to ride for long periods of time. The handlebars are easy to reach due to the high pivots. The thighs on the fuel tank slid seamlessly into the creases, giving the rider a firm grip while making sharp turns. The footpegs are lightly set at the rear and the stepped seat is cushioned enough to accommodate light and heavy riders alike. The perch is 15mm higher than the Hornet 2.0 at 810mm, yet it’s easy to drop a foot for anchors due to its narrow profile.
Honda’s 184-cc engine is particularly pleasant for rumble in the cities. It’s punchy in the bottom and mid-range, and it’s relatively tempting to unfold for quick overtakes. A proper city-friendly engine, this 4-stroke motor will be easy on the fuel bills as well. Connected to the engine is a 5-speed transmission, which is a sleek operator and the gearbox is light on the pull. But is this the appropriate engine you want to run off-trail? Hold on
Honda never made such a promise. Don’t fall for the look. Hailed as an ‘urban find’, the Hornet 2.0 on Steroids aka CB200X is meant for an easy daily commute. Don’t even consider it a soft-roader.
Wheels are alloy and not spoke. The only mechanical difference is the grade of the rubber. MRF has supplied rubber, similar in size and proportion; But with a different thread pattern on the CB200X. During short experiential rides, we found the rubber to provide a decent grip on wet tarmac.
When viewed through the optics of the ADV Inspire, this issue comes to the fore. The CB200X missed a lot of aspects like high ground clearance (167 mm), dual-channel ABS and Bluetooth-assisted navigation setup.
Luckily for us, the incessant rain in Mumbai simulated a mild off-road scenario. The agility and versatility of the motorcycle is pleasant. Oddly, the rear mono-shock turned downwards while going over water-filled potholes, yet establishes the fact that the CB200X is a street motorcycle draped in adventure clothing.
With the Hornet 2.0, the CB200X becomes the only pair of motorcycles to ride on upside-down front forks. These show that there will be great ease and confidence to maneuver when nooping and tucking through traffic. The Honda CB200X comes in a single variant, which is supplied with dual discs and single-channel ABS. Riding extensively in rain conditions, the lever response was found to be a bit inconsistent and I was expecting dual-channel ABS here.
Should you buy the Honda CB200X? Well, first of all the smallest CB is no match for the off-road prowess of the Hero XPulse 200. If that doesn’t bother you, the CB200X has a lot of tricks up its sleeve that the XPulse can’t.
The engine and gearbox are sophisticated and reliable. Running at a speed of 100 kmph comes naturally to the CB200X. Also, you can consider the CB200X over the similarly-specified street naked motorcycles based on the distinctive looks. Most importantly, it may not be as fast as others but will give you a more comfortable ride than them.
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