The Honda CB Unicorn 160: continues the design philosophy through the Honda commuter series in India. It has been marketed as a robust and power-packed product in the 150cc-160cc segment, and capitalizes on the lineage of the brand ‘Unicorn’ that has been celebrated for its refinement and durability over the decades. Engineered as an ideal ride for daily commute with a decent touch of fun and performance, a variety of consumers ranging from office goers to college students and those with young family could consider it. It’s the motorcycle of a rider who doesn’t chase the latest fads but cares about timeless appeal and functional performance.
In an era overflowing with sharp and aggressive street bikes and performance-oriented machines, the CB Unicorn 160 is a little conservative. It would have suited everyone who loves a grown-up, get-stuck-in bike capable of everyday urban work and the very occasional motorway schlep. Design In terms of design, the CB Unicorn 160 has largely remained unchanged with major highlights in the form of a redesigned fuel tank and new graphics on the body panels.
Design and Styling that’s Practical
The styling of the Honda CB Unicorn 160 is function over form. It has a more conventional, upright look that leans closer to commuter comfort than menacing looks. The chunky tank, slightly oversized side panels and chrome bits, too, add a nice sense of orderliness to the equation. The simple graphics and conventional headlamp unit highlight its mature persona. The motorcycle also gets a single piece long seat that can make the family commuting easier and longer rides with the pillion possible.
While it may not have the visual drama of most of its 160cc rivals, the Unicorn 160 is a handsome lad in a sort of understated manner. The fit and finish speak volumes about Honda’s normal level of quality. And the motorcycle does have a bit of a sporty edge, too, with those blacked-out engine, alloy wheels, exhaust etc., but not to the point of overdoing it. It is this mixture of value and reliability that has made CB Unicorn 160 a stable product in an era where riders with an eye for a durable, comfortable and understated looking bike are more sought after, unlike short-term excitement machines.
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Engine and Riding Dynamics
The CB Unicorn 160 is powered by a 162.71cc, single-cylinder engine is good for brilliant performance. More biased towards torque and linear acceleration over top-end speed, it makes roughly 12.7 bhp and 14 Nm of peak torque. Mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and a power-delivery potential that is constant and predictable, it’s great for stop-and-go city driving and cruising at lower highway speeds. The bike doesn’t feel particularly front-endy or rear-endy – it toes a sensible line between efficiency and usability.
Engine refinementThe refinement of the engine is one of the highlights on the Unicorn 160. Vibration, even at elevated revs, is expertly kept in check and this results in a surprising level of comfort when on the bike. the gearchanges are slick and the clutch is light, making it an easy companion for your daily ride to work. From stop-and-go traffic to highway-top-end reliability, there is never a dull moment on the saddle of the CB Unicorn 160.
Natural Comfort and Ergonomic Use Everyday
The Honda CB Unicorn 160 has already been widely appreciated for its fantastic comfort on the move and this one is no different. Seating position is very upright with neutral foot peg position and the wide handlebar is comfortable. This riding posture minimises exhaustion on long journeys and gives the bike great manoeuvrability in the city. The one-piece seat is broad and comfortable for both rider and passenger, rendering it capable for day-to day-use and even a weekend out with the family.
Telescopic forks handle suspension at the front and there’s a mono-shock at the rear. The setup is setup to favor comfort rather than sporting, which suits this bike consideringthat it’s a commuter.-ADVERTISEMENT- Suspension action and the suspension as a whole is fantastic. It’s smooth on potholes and speed bumps, and offers a cushy ride on most roads. The seat provides maximum comfort and absorption for the rider during long riding sessions on and off paved roads.
Braking, Tyres, and Ride Stability
The Honda CB Unicorn 160 comes with a front disc and rear drum brake setup with an option of single-channel ABS, that has enough bite on offer for city & semi-urban riding. The brakes are responsive, well adjusted to normal riding conditions and stop the bike on a dime. The ABS provides an additional safety feature particularly under difficult riding conditions such as wet or uneven roads and gives a boost of rider confidence.
Tyres on the CB Unicorn 160 have good grip and are good for most road surfaces. It travels on 18-inch wheels, an unusual feature on a bike in its class, but in its favor for added stability and comfort. These bigger wheels also assist it to remain more stable on highways and they soak up the small road inconsistencies quite well. All together, the braking, chassis dynamics and ride adds up to a safe and confident experience for the rider.
Technology and Utility Features
Not that the CB Unicorn 160 carries a lot of high-tech stuff but gives whatever is needed by the targeted customers. The instrument cluster is semi-digital, with analogue and digital read outs. Even its speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer and trip meter are straightforward but useful. A maintenance-free battery and tubeless tyres further enhance convenience and save cost of ownership.
It’s got an engine kill switch, a nice to have for the urbanite. This is paired with a 13 litre tank, which will help you eat the miles as you work your way across the country. Also included is the side stand indicator, to ensure greater safety. Although small, these are specifically chosen in the interests of enhancing the overall experience of the user and without over complicating the bike. For commuters looking at dependability and refinement, the CB Unicorn 160 offers exactly what the doctor ordered, nothing more.
Honda CB Unicorn 160: The Bottom Line: Old-school Commuter Gets an Update
The Honda CB Unicorn 160 takes over the reins of its predecessor and offers an all new package which is developed around the virtues of comfort, reliability and being practical. It doesn’t follow the fad of aggressive styling or over-the-top tech, but rather continues to emphasize reliable performance and no-fuss ownership. With engine refinement, mature design and comfortable ergonomics, the Shine is popular among commuters seeking a reliable two-wheeler.
And the fact that it’s a Honda, means that you would expect the CB Unicorn 160 to turn out as real world proof of the company’s quality and customer satisfaction focus. Be it the hustle and bustle of the city traffic or leisure rides on the highway, the motorcycle does it all with grace and is the winner. It might not be the flashiest in its class, but it remains one of the most reliable. The CB Unicorn 160 is still a sound choice for those who seek reliability and comfort in their motorcycle, with a good old-fashioned proven character to boot.