The 200cc streetfighter segment is one of the hottest in India right now. If you’re looking for a powerful, aggressive, and feature-packed naked bike, two names stand out – the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and the 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0.
Both bikes offer exciting performance, but which one suits your riding style better? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can decide which machine deserves a spot in your garage.
Key Highlights
- Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is all about raw power and thrilling acceleration.
- Honda Hornet 2.0 focuses on smooth city riding with better fuel efficiency.
- The NS200 gets a liquid-cooled engine for better performance, while the Hornet 2.0 is air-cooled for easy maintenance.
- Both bikes come with USD forks, LED lights, and dual-channel ABS for safety and style.
- The NS200 gets a 6-speed gearbox, while the Hornet 2.0 sticks to 5 gears.
- Price difference is marginal, but performance varies significantly.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 vs 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 Engine & Performance
| Specification | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 | 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 199.5cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-valve DTS-i | 184.4cc, Air-cooled, 2-valve PGM-FI |
| Max Power | 24.5 HP @ 9750 rpm | 17 HP @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 18.7 Nm @ 8000 rpm | 15.9 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 5-speed |
| 0-100 km/h | 9.9 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 35-40 kmpl | 40-45 kmpl |
If you love speed and performance, the NS200 is the clear winner. It has a bigger engine, higher power, and a 6-speed gearbox for smoother highway rides. The Hornet 2.0 is better for city riding, thanks to its lightweight and fuel efficiency.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 vs 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 Features & Technology
| Feature | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 | 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlights & Taillights | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes | Yes |
| Dual-Channel ABS | Yes | Yes |
| USD Front Forks | Yes | Yes |
| Frame Type | Perimeter Frame | Diamond Frame |
| Monoshock Suspension | Yes | Yes |
| Hazard Switch | No | Yes |
Both bikes are feature-rich, but NS200 comes with a perimeter frame, which provides better stability at high speeds. Meanwhile, the Hornet 2.0 gets golden USD forks and a hazard switch, which some riders might find useful.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 vs 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 Dimensions & Comfort
| Dimension | Bajaj Pulsar NS200 | 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2017 mm | 2047 mm |
| Width | 804 mm | 783 mm |
| Height | 1075 mm | 1064 mm |
| Weight | 158 kg | 142 kg |
| Seat Height | 805 mm | 790 mm |
The Hornet 2.0 is lighter and has a lower seat height, making it easier for shorter riders to handle. The NS200, on the other hand, is heavier, but that adds stability at high speeds.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 vs 2025 Honda Hornet 2.0 Price & Value for Money
| Model | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Bajaj Pulsar NS200 | ₹1.59 lakh |
| Honda Hornet 2.0 | ₹1.57 lakh |
Price-wise, there isn’t a huge gap, but the NS200 offers significantly better performance for just ₹2,000 more. If budget isn’t a big issue, the Pulsar NS200 gives you more bang for your buck.
Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 if:
✅ You love powerful performance and highway rides. ✅ You want a liquid-cooled engine that handles heat better. ✅ You need a 6-speed gearbox for smoother long rides. ✅ You prefer a perimeter frame for better handling.
Buy the Honda Hornet 2.0 if:
✅ You want a lighter, more fuel-efficient bike. ✅ You mostly ride in city traffic and need easy handling. ✅ You prefer low maintenance and an air-cooled engine. ✅ You like Honda’s refined engine and reliability.
Q&A – Answering Your Top Questions
Q: Which bike has a better top speed?
A: The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 has a higher top speed of around 135 km/h, whereas the Hornet 2.0 maxes out at about 120 km/h.
Q: Which bike is better for beginners?
A: If you’re a new rider, the Hornet 2.0 is easier to handle because it’s lighter and has a smoother power delivery. However, if you’re comfortable with speed and power, the NS200 offers a more thrilling ride.
Q: Which one has better mileage?
A: The Honda Hornet 2.0 offers slightly better mileage at 40-45 kmpl, while the NS200 delivers around 35-40 kmpl.
Q: Does the NS200 still use a carburetor?
A: No, the latest Pulsar NS200 comes with Fuel Injection (FI), making it more efficient and refined.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Streetfighter
If you want a fast, aggressive, and performance-packed bike, the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is the better choice. It offers more power, better acceleration, and a 6-speed gearbox, making it the king of this segment.
However, if your priority is city riding, fuel efficiency, and comfort, the Honda Hornet 2.0 is a great option. It’s easier to handle, has Honda’s legendary reliability, and delivers better mileage.
In the end, both bikes are excellent. Choose the one that matches your riding style and needs!
Which one would you pick? Let us know!