Honda SP 160

The design of the Honda SP160 builds on the success of the SP125, which has been one of the best-selling motorcycles in its category. The SP160 adopts a sportier styling compared to the more conservative Unicorn, starting with a sleek LED headlamp, a smoked windscreen, and sharp lines across the body. The bikini fairing and prominent tank extensions with faux air vents give the bike a bold, modern appeal.

The dual-tone paint treatment on the fuel tank and side panels adds a premium touch, making the SP160 stand out. The 12-liter fuel tank is compact but complements the overall sporty look of the bike. At the rear, the H-shaped LED tail lamp and one-piece grab handle complete the balanced design. The attention to detail in terms of graphics and cladding gives the bike a more aggressive stance, appealing to younger riders looking for something stylish yet practical.

The Honda SP160 is powered by the same reliable 162.71 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine from the Unicorn. This engine delivers 13.27 bhp at 7500 rpm and 14.58 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm, which, while not class-leading, is more than adequate for daily commuting and occasional weekend rides. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox, offering smooth gear shifts, and Honda’s renowned refinement ensures a vibration-free experience at moderate speeds.

The SP160 is also OBD-II and E20 fuel compliant, making it ready for current and upcoming emission regulations. This engine, known for its longevity and efficiency, provides a refined riding experience with ample low-end torque for city traffic and a comfortable cruising speed on highways. While it may not be the quickest in its segment, the SP160 offers a balanced power delivery suited for practical use, delivering efficiency without sacrificing performance.

One of the standout aspects of the Honda SP160 is its comfortable ergonomics. The bike shares the same diamond-type frame as the Unicorn, which is known for its stability and ease of handling. The seating position is upright, with a slightly forward-set handlebar and neutrally positioned footpegs, creating a riding triangle that’s easy on the back and shoulders. This ensures that the SP160 is suitable for both short commutes and longer journeys.

The telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension are tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. The 17-inch wheels wrapped in MRF Nylogrip Zapper tires provide good grip and stability, while the 177 mm ground clearance is adequate for Indian road conditions. The dual disc brakes with single-channel ABS provide ample stopping power, with 276 mm petal discs at the front and 220 mm discs at the rear adding a premium feel to the bike.

While the SP160 is not designed for aggressive cornering, it offers a predictable and stable handling experience, making it an excellent choice for city riders who occasionally venture onto highways.

Comfort is one of the key selling points of the SP160, much like its sibling, the Unicorn. The wide, well-cushioned seat is designed to keep both the rider and pillion comfortable, even during long rides. The one-piece seat measures 594 mm in length, slightly shorter than the Unicorn but still spacious enough to accommodate two riders comfortably. The 796 mm seat height is approachable for most riders, offering a confident stance at stoplights.

The handlebars are easy to reach, and the neutral footpeg position ensures that the rider’s legs are not cramped, even during extended rides. Additionally, the longer wheelbase of 1347 mm contributes to the bike's stability and comfort, particularly when carrying a pillion or luggage. The overall ergonomics and suspension tuning make the SP160 an ideal companion for daily commuting and weekend getaways

In terms of technology, the Honda SP160 offers all-digital instrumentation that is functional and easy to read. The display includes a tachometer, speedometer, two trip meters, odometer, gear position indicator, and real-time fuel efficiency readings. The layout is clear, and the addition of a hazard switch is a thoughtful inclusion, especially for city riding.

While the bike doesn’t come with fancy tech like Bluetooth connectivity or navigation, the instrumentation covers all essential information a rider would need. The switchgear is of high quality, with an engine kill switch and smooth-operating buttons that feel premium for the price point.

One of the primary reasons riders choose a Honda is for the fuel efficiency. The SP160 doesn’t disappoint, offering a claimed mileage of around 55-60 kmpl, depending on riding conditions. The efficient engine, combined with the bike’s relatively lightweight, ensures that the SP160 is economical to run, even with rising fuel prices. The 12-liter fuel tank provides a range of over 600 kilometers on a full tank, making it perfect for daily commuters who prioritize fuel savings.

At ₹1.17 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the Honda SP160 offers a premium feel without the premium price. It’s slightly more expensive than the Honda Unicorn, but the added features like the LED lighting, digital instrumentation, and sportier design justify the additional cost. Compared to competitors like the Bajaj Pulsar P150, TVS Apache RTR 160 2V, and Yamaha FZS V3.0, the SP160 holds its ground with a balanced offering of performance, comfort, and practicality. The bike’s long-term reliability, coupled with Honda’s strong after-sales service network, makes it a solid investment for buyers looking for a commuter with a hint of sportiness.

Honda’s vast service network ensures that SP160 owners will have no trouble maintaining their bikes. Honda is known for its affordable maintenance costs and easy availability of spare parts, and the SP160 benefits from the brand’s reputation for reliability. With periodic services and extended warranties available, buyers can expect a hassle-free ownership experience.

The Honda SP160 faces tough competition from established models in the 150-160cc segment. The Bajaj Pulsar P150 offers similar performance with a more aggressive design, while the TVS Apache RTR 160 2V appeals to performance enthusiasts with its sportier handling and higher power output. The Yamaha FZS V3.0, on the other hand, is known for its styling and refinement.

However, the SP160 strikes a balance between these rivals by offering a more comfortable ride, excellent fuel efficiency, and Honda’s legendary reliability, making it a compelling option for buyers who want a mix of performance and practicality.

The 2023 Honda SP160 is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers excellent value for money in the highly competitive 160cc segment. With its sporty design, refined engine, and comfortable ergonomics, it caters to riders who need a reliable daily commuter but also desire a hint of sportiness. The SP160 may not be the fastest bike in its class, but it delivers on comfort, efficiency, and practicality, making it an ideal choice for city commuting and occasional weekend rides. For buyers who want a commuter bike that can do a bit of everything, the Honda SP160 is a solid contender