The 160cc street bike segment in India has long been a battleground for performance, style, and everyday usability. Two of the top contenders in this class – the Honda Hornet 2.0 and the Yamaha FZ-S FI – continue to stir debate among enthusiasts and daily commuters alike. With both motorcycles recently receiving updates and tweaks, 2025 promises intense competition in this sub-200cc space.
Design Language – Sharp vs Muscular
The Honda Hornet 2.0 carries an aggressive stance with sharp tank extensions, sleek LED lighting, and a forward-leaning design. It takes cues from Honda’s international CB series, giving it a more premium appearance. On the other hand, the Yamaha FZ-S maintains its muscular and compact streetfighter look with a beefy fuel tank and minimalistic panels. Yamaha recently introduced color updates and Bluetooth connectivity in select trims, enhancing the bike’s appeal to urban riders.
While both bikes stand out visually, the Hornet feels more “edgy,” while the FZ-S appeals to those who prefer a bold yet practical street look.
Engine and Performance – Which One Has the Edge?
At the heart of the Hornet 2.0 is a 184.4cc air-cooled engine that produces around 17.03 PS of power and 15.9 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 5-speed gearbox and offers a lively throttle response ideal for city zipping and weekend sprints.
The Yamaha FZ-S FI, in contrast, uses a 149cc air-cooled engine that delivers 12.4 PS and 13.3 Nm. While it may lag behind in terms of outright numbers, the FZ-S is known for its smooth power delivery and refined engine feel, making it a preferred choice for relaxed commuting.
So, if sheer performance is your priority, the Hornet 2.0 offers a noticeable punch. However, for smoother, vibration-free city rides, the FZ-S holds its ground firmly.
Features and Equipment – Matching Each Other Step for Step
The Hornet 2.0 gets a digital negative LCD instrument cluster, LED lighting all around, and upside-down front forks (USD), which is a segment-first feature. These forks not only enhance aesthetics but also improve front-end stability.
The Yamaha FZ-S FI counters with its own set of modern features including an LCD meter, single-channel ABS, and Yamaha’s Y-Connect Bluetooth connectivity system in the higher variants. While it may lack USD forks, the FZ-S is lighter and easier to maneuver through tight spaces.
Ride Comfort and Handling – City Focused Dynamics
Both motorcycles are tuned for city use. The Hornet’s suspension setup is slightly stiffer, giving it better high-speed stability, especially on open roads. The FZ-S, with its softer suspension and upright ergonomics, is more forgiving on rough roads and daily traffic.
In terms of handling, both bikes offer nimble dynamics, but the FZ-S scores higher in terms of low-speed control and comfort, while the Hornet 2.0 feels more planted during spirited rides.
Fuel Efficiency – Who Wins the Economy Race?
In real-world conditions, the Yamaha FZ-S is known to return mileage figures of around 45–50 km/l, thanks to its fuel-injection tuning and eco-friendly engine mapping. The Honda Hornet 2.0, due to its larger engine, offers around 40–45 km/l, which is still respectable for its performance class.
Price Comparison (as of mid-2025)
| Bike Model | Ex-Showroom Price (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Honda Hornet 2.0 | ₹1.40 lakh |
| Yamaha FZ-S FI | ₹1.25 lakh |
The FZ-S emerges as the more budget-friendly option, while the Hornet justifies its price with performance-oriented components like the USD fork and bigger engine.
Also Read: Honda Shine 100 vs TVS Radeon – Budget Commuter Battle Gets Intense
Final Thoughts – Still a Neck-and-Neck Race
The Honda Hornet 2.0 and Yamaha FZ-S FI continue to dominate the 160cc space with their distinct personalities. The Hornet is better suited for those who want a punchy, sporty ride with eye-catching design elements. Meanwhile, the FZ-S shines as a reliable, refined, and economical everyday companion.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on what matters more to the rider — performance and premium feel, or comfort and practicality. With both brands consistently refining their models, the street segment war remains tighter than ever in 2025.
