Honda has launched the 2025 Hornet 2.0 in India and it is priced at Rs 1,56,953 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The motorcycle now comes with several new features. Its biggest rival is the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, which is priced at Rs 1,48,620 (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Instrument Console
The 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 comes with a 4.2-inch colour TFT display. The display is quite clear and its layout is clean and crisp. It shows speed, fuel level, tachometer, eco-riding indicator, trip meter, side stand indicator, time, gear-position indicator, real-time mileage and other tell-tale lights. The TFT display also supports Bluetooth connectivity via Honda’s RoadSync application that offers turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts and music control.
The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V gets an LCD instrument console, which is quite information-heavy, and can be difficult to read while riding. The LCD console shows the fuel level, speed, gear-position indicator, average speed, current speed, trip meter, and the riding mode you are in. The LCD console also supports Bluetooth connectivity via TVS’ SmartXonnect app, which offers turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, and music control. The mobile application also shows ride telemetry such as lean angle, lap timer, and crash alert.
Riding Modes
Although the Honda Hornet 2.0 doesn’t come with any riding modes, it does have a ride-by-wire throttle.
On the other hand, the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V gets three riding modes: Sports, Urban, and Rain. The riding modes change the power output of the motorcycle as the Sports mode gives all the available power while the Urban and Rain modes give less power.
Rider Aids
Honda has given dual-channel ABS and switchable traction control in the 2025 Hornet 2.0, which will help in giving a better and safer riding experience.
The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V also gets dual-channel ABS, which can be switched off for the rear wheel. However, traction control is not provided in the bike.
Engine
The 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 is powered by an OBD-2B compliant 184cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 17PS at 8,500rpm and 15.7Nm at 6,000rpm. The engine is paired to a five-speed transmission with a slip-and-assist clutch.
The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is powered by a 197.75cc single-cylinder, air and oil-cooled engine that produces 20.82PS at 7,800rpm and 17.25Nm of torque at 7,250rpm in sports mode. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch.
Basic Features
The Honda Hornet 2.0 comes with inverted telescopic forks and a preload adjustable monoshock. Braking duties are handled by 276mm front and 220mm rear petal disc brakes. The bike has a fuel tank capacity of 14.1 liters and weighs 153 kg.
Suspension duties on the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V are handled by inverted telescopic forks and a monoshock, both of which are preload adjustable. The Apache also comes with adjustable brake and clutch levers. It has a 270mm front and 240mm rear pet disc brake. The motorcycle has a fuel tank capacity of 12 litres and weighs 152 kg.
Conclusion
The 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 has a lot of features, but it is Rs 8,333 more than the ex-showroom price of the Apache RTR 200 4V, which is priced at Rs 1,48,620 (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Hornet’s trump card over the Apache is its TFT display and switchable traction control.
The Apache RTR 200 4V is better in all other aspects over the Hornet 2.0. It gives more power, has better suspension and is lighter. While this is not a negative for the bike, the inconsistent service experience of TVS can be a deterrent. While Honda is known to have a very hassle-free service experience.
On the other hand, the TVS offers a better riding experience with its more powerful engine, adjustable suspension at both ends and lighter kerb weight. The Apache RTR 200 4V also has the advantage of being more affordable than the Honda which puts it a step ahead of its competitors.
