Should You Choose the Honda CB Unicorn 160, 150, or an Alternative?
The upcoming discontinuation of the Honda CB Unicorn 160 makes it a critical decision point for potential buyers. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of choosing the Unicorn 160, the older Unicorn 150, and an alternative like the Xblade, as well as the popular TVS Apache siblings.
The Honda CB Unicorn 160: Convenience and Reliability
The Honda CB Unicorn 160 has been a reliable choice for many riders, catering to its target audience with its practical features and fuel efficiency. However, it's imperative to note that the 160 model will soon be phased out, making it a matter of urgency for those considering it.
Despite its reliability, the Unicorn 160 offers a riding experience that feels lighter than its 150 counterpart. It may not provide the same level of enjoyment as a bike with a 150 cc engine, but its fuel economy and overall performance are commendable.
Pro: Reliable, comfortable for long rides, and efficient in terms of fuel consumption.
Con: The riding experience is not as robust as a 150 cc motorcycle, and it may not suit every rider.
The Honda CB Unicorn 150: Legacy and Age
For those who value nostalgia and the classic feel of a legacy model, the Honda CB Unicorn 150 can be a compelling choice. Despite its excellent performance and ease of maintenance, this model is now considered somewhat outdated, especially considering the rapid advancements in motorcycle technology and design.
The Unicorn 150 offers a comfortable riding position and is equipped with better headlights and tail lights. However, its major drawback is age, as its components and design are not as modern or efficient as newer models.
Pro: Comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and nostalgic feel.
Con: Older model, not easily modified for modern technology, and may not appeal to all riders.
The Xblade: A Welcome Alternative
An alternative to the Unicorns is the Xblade, which offers a host of upgrades and improvements over the two choices mentioned. The Xblade comes with a more modern and comfortable seating position, ABS, wider rear tires, and a sleeker design. Additionally, it provides better handling and braking capabilities.
The Xblade also houses a 160 cc engine, which is detuned to produce less power than the Unicorn 160 but remains powerful enough for typical usage. This detuning results in better mileage, making it a practical choice for riders looking for a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
Pro: Modern design, better handling, improved braking, and optimal fuel efficiency.
Con: Slightly more expensive than the Unicorns.
TVS Apache Siblings: High-Performance Options
If you're seeking a high-performance alternative to the Honda Unicorns and Xblade, the TVS Apache siblings are excellent choices. These bikes, including the 160, 160 4V, 180, and 200 4V models, offer superior performance with robust engines, quick responses, and powerful braking.
The TVS Apaches are designed for family use, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even with additional weight. They are known for their superior mileage when driven sensibly, making them a practical choice for everyday use.
Pro: Powerful engines, quick responses, and excellent braking.
Con: Higher maintenance compared to other bikes.
Personal Experience with the Honda CB Unicorn 150BS4
From my personal experience, the Honda CB Unicorn 150BS4 is a reliable and economical choice. It excels in fuel economy, offering around 50-60 km per liter, and requires minimal maintenance, particularly in the first 15,000 kilometers.
However, the bike does have some drawbacks. The mono suspension can be quite harsh, and the handling is not as great as other bikes in the segment. The tires are a limiting factor, and at low RPM, the power delivery is not adequate for a bike of its weight class (150 kg).
Additionally, some parts of the bike show signs of rust and paint loss, especially where it touches the seat. These issues can be addressed, but it might be worth considering an upgrade to better models like the Hornet or Xblade.
Pro: Excellent fuel economy, low maintenance.
Con: Harsh mono suspension, handling limitations, and potential rust issues.
Conclusion
Choosing the right motorcycle can be a challenging decision, especially with options like the Honda CB Unicorn 160, 150, Xblade, and TVS Apache siblings. Each model offers unique features and benefits, and the choice should be made based on personal preferences and usage requirements.
While the Unicorns are a reliable choice, the Xblade and TVS Apaches offer modern improvements and better performance. A test ride is highly recommended to find the best fit for your riding experience.