New Honda CB Hornet 160R launch today

We had reported that Honda will be launching a sporty 160cc motorcycle based on the Unicorn 160 and the above has been confirmed. Pictures of the four bikes to be showcased at the Revfest event were posted on its official website accidentally. The new motorcycle will be christened Honda CB Hornet 160R. The new motorcycle will be the second new bike to be launched by the Japanese two-wheeler giant after the Honda Livo.

While the Honda Unicorn 160 has been targeted towards mature 150cc segment buyers, the new Honda CB Hornet 160R will try to please the youngsters. Only the front picture of the upcoming motorcycle has been leaked. From that photo we can make out that the new Honda CB Hornet 160R will have a sportier design language with muscular fuel tank, sleeker exhaust muffler and beefy tank shrouds. Powering the new CB Hornet 160R will be the same motor as seen on the Unicorn 160. The 163.7cc; air-cooled motor churns out 14.5PS of max power and peak torque rating of 14.6Nm. The powerplant is mated to a 5-speed gearbox which transmits power via chain drive. Going by the experience we had on the Unicorn 160, expect the new Honda CB Hornet 160R to have good performance. 

The engine will also sport the patented HET technology that reduces frictional losses and improves fuel efficiency. Being a sportier offering, expect the riding posture of the new motorcycle to be a bit sporty with slightly rear-set footpegs. Suspension will remain unchanged with telescopic front forks and mono-shock unit at the back. Braking will be done by disc brake at front and rear while CBS will be an optional extra. The Honda CB Hornet 160R will be priced at a premium of around Rs 5,000 over the Unicorn 160 and in all probability will replace the Honda CB Trigger from our market. The new Honda CB Hornet 160R will compete against Suzuki Gixxer, Yamaha FZ-S FI, Hero Xtreme Sports and TVS Apache RTR 160.