Honda xBlade 160 is a sharper, more chiseled, and sportier version of the CB Hornet 160R. While both the bikes share the same platform and engine and deliver the same kind of performance, the xBlade has been positioned as a commuter motorcycle by the company. The public saw this new bike for the first time in February this year at the Auto Expo. Post the launch with a price tag of INR 79,095, the xBlade has created a sensation in the market, butting heads with the Suzuki Gixxer, the Yamaha FZ-S V2.0, the Bajaj Pulsar NS160, and the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. Honda recently hiked the price of xBlade 160, it is now available for INR 79,768 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The newest member of Honda features a more aggressive design, with more cuts and creases along the design line. This may suit many avid commuters while others might not find it to their liking. Aside from the subjective terms such as the design of the bike, there are other specifications which can be divided into a list of pros and cons to help you choose better.

Honda xBlade Pros & Cons

Pros of xBlade 160

1. The robo-face LED headlamp is a first-in-segment feature which gives the bike a unique look. The tail light is a razor-edged LED unit making the bike even sleeker. Making the bike even more groovy are the pillion grab rails.
2. The instrument panel is a fully digital unit with gear position indicator and other tell-tale lights. Up ahead, a windscreen adds to the sportiness of the commuter.
3. The dual-port exhaust muffler delivers a punchy exhaust note which makes the bike sportier. On the rear end, one can also see a sporty rear tire hugger.
4. There is a hazard light switch which can prove itself to be useful during night rides and in emergency situations.
5. The comfort of the pillion and the rider has been kept in mind with the offering of a long single-piece seat which provides enough space.
6. xBlade 160 comes with the reliability from Honda and an unmistakably good build quality.
7. The 162.7cc engine delivers a power of 13.93 bhp at 8500 rpm and maximum torque of 13.90 Nm at 6000 rpm. Mated with a 5-speed transmission, the bike has a mileage of 45-50 kmpl under mixed riding conditions.

Cons of xBlade 160

1. There is an absence of an engine kill switch which makes the ride annoying in stop-and-go traffic.
2. The tires are thinner when compared to the CB Hornet 160R.
3. There is no option for a rear disc brake or ABS.
4. The illumination of the LED headlamp seems to be dim when compared to that of a halogen headlamp.

Verdict

The Honda xBlade is at its core a commuter bike and the sportiness has been added to target the market of the young buyers. With its unique features, it stands out among the Indian markets. However, some people might view the design to be an overkill. Overall, it is a sporty and stylish choice in the segment.

Honda xBlade 160 Features