Honda Unicorn 160: A Trustworthy for Everyday Riding

When it comes to commuter motorcycles in India, few names carry the same level of trust and legacy as the Honda Unicorn. Over the years, Honda has cemented its reputation for producing reliable, fuel-efficient, and smooth-riding motorcycles. One of the standout models in their lineup is the Honda Unicorn 160, an upgraded version of the iconic Unicorn 150. Designed for daily commuters and long-distance riders alike, this bike strikes a perfect balance between power, comfort, and efficiency.

If you are considering the Honda Unicorn 160 for your next two-wheeler, this article will give you a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know—from design and performance to mileage and pricing.

1. A Design That Blends Elegance with Practicality

While the Honda Unicorn 160 is not the flashiest bike on the road, it carries a sleek and muscular design that appeals to riders who prefer understated elegance over aggressive styling.

The fuel tank is well-contoured, giving the bike a sturdy and modern look while maintaining a comfortable knee grip for riders. The chrome-finished Honda emblem on the fuel tank adds a touch of premium appeal. Its black alloy wheels, long single-piece seat, and neatly designed tail section contribute to a clean yet sporty aesthetic.

One of the most practical design elements is its 187mm ground clearance, ensuring that Indian riders can easily maneuver over speed breakers and potholes without worrying about the underbody scraping against the road.

Color Options: Honda offers the Unicorn 160 in three colors: Imperial Red Metallic, Matte Axis Grey Metallic, and Pearl Igneous Black, allowing buyers to choose a shade that matches their personality.

2. Engine and Performance: Smooth and Reliable Power Delivery

At the heart of the Honda Unicorn 160 is a 162.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that delivers 12.9 bhp at 7500 rpm and 14 Nm of torque at 5500 rpm.

While these numbers may not make it the most powerful bike in its segment, what truly sets the Unicorn apart is the refinement of its engine. The power delivery is smooth, and the vibrations are minimal, making the riding experience incredibly comfortable, especially for long commutes.

Fuel Injection & BS6 Compliance

Honda’s Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) technology ensures optimal fuel efficiency while maintaining a cleaner engine response. The bike is BS6-compliant, meaning it meets the latest emission norms and is environmentally friendly.

Transmission & Gearbox

The Unicorn 160 comes with a 5-speed gearbox that offers precise shifts, making city rides stress-free and highway cruising smoother. The gear ratios are well-calibrated for urban commuting, with enough power to overtake comfortably in traffic.

3. Ride Quality and Handling: Built for Comfort

One of the most significant advantages of the Honda Unicorn 160 is its exceptional ride quality. The bike is built on a diamond-type frame, ensuring high stability and control even at high speeds.

The front telescopic forks and rear monoshock suspension work together to absorb bumps and potholes effortlessly, making long rides and uneven road conditions more manageable.

The bike has a wheelbase of 1335mm, which contributes to its stability, allowing riders to take corners confidently without worrying about skidding or imbalance.

Honda has also designed the seat with a focus on rider and pillion comfort, making it an excellent option for people who frequently travel long distances. The upright riding posture ensures minimal strain on the back and shoulders, making it ideal for daily commuters.

4. Braking and Safety Features

Safety is a crucial factor for any rider, and Honda has ensured that the Unicorn 160 meets modern safety standards.

The bike is equipped with a 240mm front disc brake and a 130mm rear drum brake, offering reliable stopping power. Additionally, Honda has included a single-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to prevent wheel lock-up and improve braking efficiency, especially on slippery roads.

While dual-channel ABS would have been an excellent addition, the single-channel ABS does a decent job of improving overall braking safety, making the Unicorn 160 a trustworthy companion on the road.

5. Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency remains one of the biggest concerns for Indian bike buyers, and the Honda Unicorn 160 delivers an impressive mileage of around 50-55 km/l under normal riding conditions.

Thanks to Honda’s Eco Technology (HET) and fuel-injection system, the bike ensures optimal combustion, resulting in excellent fuel economy. Whether you use it for daily commutes or occasional highway rides, you won’t have to worry about frequent fuel stops.

6. Features and Technology: A Balance of Necessity and Simplicity

While the Honda Unicorn 160 is not packed with high-tech features, it includes all the essential functionalities that a commuter would need.

• Fully Digital Instrument Console: Displays speed, fuel level, odometer, and trip meter clearly.
• Engine Kill Switch: enhances rider convenience.
• LED Tail Lamp: Improves night visibility.
• Side-Stand Engine Cut-Off: Ensures safety by preventing accidental starts with the side stand down.
• Maintenance-Free Battery: Reduces long-term costs and hassles.

However, the lack of an LED headlamp and Bluetooth connectivity might disappoint some tech-savvy riders who are looking for modern features.

7. Price and Variants

The Honda Unicorn 160 is available in a single variant, priced at approximately ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom). However, the final on-road price may vary depending on your city and additional charges such as insurance and road tax.

8. Pros and Cons

Pros:

✔️ Smooth and refined engine with minimal vibrations.
✔️ Excellent fuel efficiency (50-55 km/l).
✔️ comfortable ride quality with superior suspension.
✔️ Reliable builds quality and brand trust.
✔️ Single-channel ABS for improved safety and LED headlamp option.

Cons:

❌ Lacks modern features like Bluetooth connectivity.
❌ Slightly outdated instrument cluster compared to competitors.

Final Verdict: Is the Honda Unicorn 160 Worth Buying?

If you are looking for a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient motorcycle for daily commuting or long rides, the Honda Unicorn 160 is an excellent choice. While it may not be the most feature-packed bike in its segment, it excels in engine refinement, riding comfort, and durability.

Honda has built a legacy of trust with the Unicorn series, and the Unicorn 160 continues that tradition, making it a smart investment for riders who prioritize smooth performance over fancy gimmicks.

Frequently Asked Questions: