Honda XBlade is the latest motorcycle from HMSI. It is available in the 160cc segment and is another new entry from Honda in this segment. It has a sharp design and we have tried it out. What is the Honda XBlade like and how is it different from the CB Hornet 160R? We ride it to find out. Read on for our Honda XBlade review.

Honda XBlade design

As the name suggests, the XBlade has a razor-sharp design. The first thing that catches your eye is the robot-faced LED headlight that looks like it came straight out of a Transformers movie. This is the first full-LED headlight in this segment. The XBlade is based on the Diamond chassis, which also forms the basis of the CB Hornet 160R.

However, the overall design of the XBlade is sharper. The tank has a beautiful, sculptural look that adds to the aggressive design. The seat is long so that both the rider and pillion can sit comfortably even on long rides. The taillight is also uniquely designed and easy to spot from a distance. There is a two-part grab handle at the rear. There is a tire-wrapping mudguard on the rear wheel, which is particularly useful in wet conditions.

The instrument cluster is fully digital and equipped with functions such as a speedometer, tachometer, trip meter, digital clock and gear indicator. Additionally, it has a service reminder. There is also a hazard warning switch that turns on all four indicators. This is particularly useful when you have stopped at the side of the road or when there is a hazard on the road.

Honda XBlade Performance

The XBlade has a 160cc air-cooled engine. This is the same engine used in the CB Hornet, but the power figures are slightly different. The XBlade engine produces 13.93 hp at 8500 rpm, which is around 1.5 hp less than the CB Hornet.

The torque is also 13.9 Nm at 6000 rpm, 1 Nm less than the CB Hornet. However, the torque kicks in at a lower rpm than the CB Hornet and this is where the power delivery characteristics differ. The highlight of this bike is its smoothness. The engine is super smooth and the power build-up is linear. It is very suitable for city riding. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Although it is good enough, it is not the sleekest unit. In fact, I prefer the one on the Pulsar NS 160. There is no heel shifter available and this one has only a toe shifter.

Driving and handling of the Honda XBlade

If you have ridden the CB Hornet 160R, you will notice a lot of similarities in the handling of this motorcycle. The handling is quite agile and at the same time it is firmly planted on the ground. It has a 130/70 rear tire which gives it good grip in corners. There are telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The suspension is not that stiff and the ride is quite smooth. The brakes are good and have a decent bite. The front wheel is 276mm. The motorcycle stops where you point it. There is no ABS but the braking performance is still confidence inspiring. At the front, the motorcycle has a 276mm disc brake and at the rear, a drum brake.

The riding position on the XBlade is not too upright. You lean forward slightly but not too far, so it’s a balance between commuter and sports seats. The bike weighs around 140 kg and has a ground clearance of 160 mm.

Honda XBlade mileage

We haven’t done any detailed mileage on the bike yet, but expect it to consume around 45 km/l under normal riding conditions.

Honda XBlade Colors

The bike is available in 5 color options

Matte Marvel Blue Metallic

Pearl Black

Matte Frozen Silver

Mother of Pearl Spartan Red

Matte Marshall Green Metallic

Verdict

The Honda XBlade is priced at Rs 78,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is available in only one variant. This makes it around Rs 5,000 cheaper than the CB Hornet 160R (base version). This is a good price for a motorcycle that looks this good. It is a real head turner and will surely attract attention wherever you go. Another factor that you will like is the refinement. So, a well packaged product that adds some freshness. Definitely a recommended buy.