Prologue
Component sharing is something thats not uncommon in most segments of the motorcycle market. Weve been seeing this on the Pulsar models for a couple of decades now and the same can be observed even with the TVS Apache RTRs and even the BMW G310 twins. No wonder, then, that Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has taken a similar approach for its latest offering, Honda CB200X. Positioned as an Urban Explorer, the new model finds itself perched between the likes of RTR200 and thoroughbred off-roaders like the Hero Xpulse 200 and even the Royal Enfield Himalayan. So, how good is the new motorcycle in playing two completely contrasting roles? We recently decided to find it out in varying backdrops of rain-soaked Mumbai and our Honda CB200X review here sums up our experience.
Mini-me Africa Twin, anyone?
Visually, the Honda CB200X looks nothing like the Hornet 2.0, at least at the first glance. Much of this is owing to the stylish quarter fairing that has been added rather seamlessly to the Hornet-sourced bodywork. The fairing features a tall flyscreen that helps you avoid wind-blasts at high speeds, while its overall appearance will definitely remind you of the Africa Twin, especially in the shade of red. It holds a large LED headlamp that is a part of the motorcycle's all-LED lighting package. The indicators aren't positioned on the fairing though, and, instead, can be found on the knuckle guards.
While these turn indicators are quite sleek and look good on the knuckle guards, they're prone to get damaged in an event of a crash. Together with the fairing, these knuckle guards complete the signature look of an adventure motorcycle. Other highlights of the front-end include 110-section dual-purpose tyre and Gold-finished USD forks. Much of the remaining motorcycle remains identical to the Hornet as it features the same fuel tank, same side panels and even the same tailpiece.
The seat, however, is revised and a tad larger than compared to the one on the donor model. Also, the handlebar has been changed to a tapered unit, which, together with the revised seat, lead to a comfortable riding posture. It must be noted here that the footpeg positioning has not been altered but the rider's triangle is spot on for those looking to spend a lot of time on the saddle. Another highlight here is the reverse-backlit instrument cluster that offers legitimate fonts and neat layouts. Unfortunately, however, Bluetooth compatibility is conspicuous by its absence.
Jack of Two Trades, King of None
Powering the Honda CB200X is the same 184.4 cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that comes from the Hornet 2.0. Peak power-torque is rated at 17PS-16.1 Nm. The motor comes mated to a 5-speed transmission. The engine or the gearbox has not been re-tuned but what that means is that the refinement level, as well as the torque spread, is as good as what you get on the street naked sibling.
Even though we revved the motor pretty hard when riding on slush and water-logged trails, we didn't come across any sort of vibrations on the handlebar or the rear-view mirrors. Also, one thing that we were quick to take note of was the great tractability the motor offers. We easily cruised from 20-40 kmph in fourth gear on Mumbai streets with mild traffic. In fact, on slowing down to, say, 40-50 kmph, one can easily accelerate back to high speeds without downshifting from the top gear. What all this means is that users who would ride this motorcycle regularly in the urban environment won't have to bear with the extra stress that comes from repeated gearshifts.
On the flip side, high-speed cruising is something at which the CB200X would leave the proverbial tourers unimpressed. Progress anything beyond, say, 95 kmph becomes quite a stretch. This is going to be an issue for anyone who has high-speed touring aspirations. The CB200X is clearly meant for cruising at a speed between 80 to 100 kmph. The best we could achieve was a speedo-indicated 116 kmph but a really long empty stretch of road was required for the same.
There are no surprises from the ride and handling package. As you would have expected, the suspension has been carried over from the Hornet 2.0 as is. Generally, Adventure motorcycles have a pretty high ride height but that's not the case with the 200X. Even the short riders will be comfortable getting on the saddle, while the upright seating position, Hornet-like positioning of the footpegs and the tapered handlebar translate into a comfortable riding position for both tall and short riders.
What this also means is that the suspension hasn't been tinkered with even a bit and unlike thoroughbred adventure motorcycles, the CB200X doesn't have a long-travel suspension. So, basically, the CB200X feels comfortable in urban riding conditions but the suspension easily bottoms out off the road. On it, though, you'll appreciate the pliant ride and how the suspension effortlessly absorbs most of the small undulations. What's even better is that the addition of the fairing hasn't changed the way the motorcycle handles.
The Honda CB200X is sufficiently agile and we found ourselves easily flicking it between lanes to make our way through the traffic. The motorcycle even feels sure-footed in the corners and it won't be wrong to say that Honda has managed to strike a good balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride with the tuning of this motorcycle's suspension. Those with regular city use and small highway rides once in a while would definitely not have much to complain about.
Epilogue
So, is the Honda CB200X a capable adventure motorcycle? No, not really. However, is it only as good off the road as any similarly priced model? No, not at all. Billed as an 'Urban Explorer', the Honda CB200X has been positioned as a motorcycle that can not just transport the rider comfortably from point A to B but it can also help him munch miles pretty effortlessly during the occasional highway trips, at least as long as he keeps his touring aspirations.
So, what are your thoughts on our Honda CB200X review? Let us know through the comments section below. Join our 91Wheels Telegram and 91Wheels Whatsapp group to know more about vehicles, conduct discussions on your favourite ride and much more! Also, you can subscribe to our Youtube channel for video content on the latest from the world of cars and motorcycles.
