How Honda SP160 Redefines the Premium 160cc Segment in India

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) launched the SP160, a premium 160cc bike based on the Unicorn platform, in December 2022. The SP160 is a successor to the CB Hornet 160R, which was discontinued in 2020. The SP160 aims to offer a sporty and stylish riding experience to the young and urban customers.

The SP160 inherits the design elements from the Unicorn, which is a popular street bike that has sold over 2.5 million (25 lakhs) units since its launch in 2004. The SP160 features a sleek and muscular design with a sculpted fuel tank, aerodynamic fairing, and attractive graphics. It also has some distinctive features to differentiate it from its sibling, such as an all-LED headlamp, a digital instrument cluster with gear position indicator and service due indicator, and a split seat with a grab rail.

Engine and performance

The SP160 shares its engine and chassis with the Unicorn. It is powered by a 162.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that produces 15.6 bhp of power and 14.7 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox and has a fuel injection system for better efficiency and emission compliance. The SP160 also has an engine stop switch and an ACG starter for silent and smooth start-up.

The SP160 delivers a smooth and refined performance with a linear power delivery and a strong mid-range. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 kmph in 5.14 seconds and has a top speed of around 110 kmph. The SP160 also has a claimed mileage of 62 kmpl, which makes it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its segment.

Suspension and brakes

The SP160 uses the same suspension and braking setup as the Unicorn. It has telescopic front forks and a mono-shock absorber at the rear. It also has disc brakes at both ends with a single-channel ABS for safety. The SP160 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.

The SP160 can offer a comfortable and stable ride quality with a well-balanced suspension and a rigid diamond frame. It also has a good handling and cornering ability with a short wheelbase and a low center of gravity. The SP160 has a ground clearance of 180 mm, which makes it suitable for Indian road conditions.

Price and variants

The SP160 is available in two variants - Standard and Deluxe - with different color options. The Standard variant comes in four colors - Matte Axis Grey Metallic, Pearl Siren Blue, Imperial Red Metallic, and Pearl Igneous Black - while the Deluxe variant comes in two colors - Matte Cyber Yellow and Matte Sangria Red Metallic. The Standard variant is priced at Rs 1.08 lakh, while the Deluxe variant is priced at Rs 1.11 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The SP160 competes with other premium 160cc bikes such as the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Suzuki Gixxer SF, Yamaha FZ-S FI V3, and Hero Xtreme 160R.