Honda CB200x First Ride Review: Ideal Motorcycle For Ideal Conditions

Honda CB200x first ride review: Ideal motorcycle for ideal conditions 

When we first saw the teasers of the new Honda CB 200x. The impression was that this will be an entry-level off-roader for the Indian consumers from HMSI. Finally, there will be competition for Hero x-pulse and there will another option for Indian consumers in the entry-level off-roading segment. But HMSI had their own plans and they introduced it not as an off-roader but as an urban explorer. Now according to them, this bike will cater to the needs of a consumer who is more of a city rider and less of an off-roader. A consumer who’s looking for a motorcycle with a mix of city and SOFT off-roading DNA. Well, I finally got a chance to test ride the New Honda CB 200x and does it have the right DNA to match your lifestyle? Let’s find that out

• Honda CB 200x Features and design
• Honda CB 200x engine
• Honda CB 200x performance
• Honda CB 200x price
• Honda CB 200x verdict

Honda CB 200x: Features and design

In terms of features, Honda CB200X comes with a fully digital instrument panel that offers all the necessary readouts like speed, tachometer, fuel efficiency, odometer, trip meter, service reminder, fuel gauge, etc. This bike also features a gear position indicator, battery voltmeter, hazard switch, and engine start switch. Nothing over and above but exactly what can be offered in a bike with such price. Did I just mention the word PRICE? Well, I have some disagreement with that. I’ll come to that later but let’s talk about design first.

Well, as far as presence is concerned, the CB 200x does look impressive in terms of design. Sharp edges throughout the body panels, with the fairing it looks muscular and imposing. Plastic knuckle-guards with integrated indicators add more ruggedness to the overall stance of the bike. Although they are made of plastic and won’t be of much help in the case someone tips over. But that is how it is. The front of the bike is inspired by its elder sibling -- CB500X -- and it looks good at the first glance. Though it's not an adventure-oriented motorcycle and the front visor gives it a tourer-like appeal.

Rear-end will remind you of the hornet with the same x-shaped taillight. Both headlights and taillights have LEDs that make it look more premium. Even the integrated indicators in knuckle guards have LED lighting. Upswept exhaust, under-cowl, tank extensions, a split step-up seat, raised handlebars for relaxed ergonomics, and block pattern tyres are some of the other elements which will make you realize that this bike is just shy of becoming another entry-level off-roader. And just like the Hornet 2.0, even Honda CB200X has a golden finish for the front forks. The CB200X is available in three colour options Black, Silver Metallic and Sports Red.

Honda CB 200x: Engine

It is no secret that Honda CB 200X uses Hornet 2.0's 184 cc air-cooled engine and five-speed gearbox. This engine uses fuel injection system with 8 onboard sensors to develop 17.03 bhp with 16.1 Nm of peak torque. The suspension set-up in the front has inverted forks and the rear has a 3-step adjustable mono-shock while it gets disc brakes in both front and rear but comes with single-channel ABS only.

Honda CB 200x: Performance

In the performance area, this engine has enough torque to make you feel excited in the beginning. The power develops gradually once you start revving and trying to touch the three-digit mark which it does with ease. The engine feels smooth and refined at slow as well as high speed. The braking set-up in normal city conditions works perfectly but isn't confidence-inspiring over wet conditions or when you do a bit of off-roading. The suspension set-up feels well-balanced for city and long highway rides but a bit shy of being an off-roader setup, which is why Honda is pitching the CB 200X as an urban explorer. The riding stance is upright and comfortable which will give more confidence to ride it for longer durations

Honda CB 200x: Price

Honda has priced it at ₹1,44,500 (ex-showroom) which I believe is a bit high for the bike with a 200 cc engine. They could have offered an option of off-roading setup like spoke wheels, dual-channel ABS and a couple of other features for those who wish to take this beyond the tarmac. Perhaps Honda could offer this in future but for now, it is what it is.

Honda CB 200x first ride: Verdict

Honda has provided few premium elements in the motorcycle and the overall package in terms of design, features and ride quality is quite impressive. So, for those who spend most of their time riding in cities and on highways, Honda CB 200x is a good offering and will not disappoint.