The Honda Unicorn 160: A Review After Over a Year of Riding

I've been riding the Honda Unicorn 160 for over 3 years now, covering more than 36,000 kilometers. As far as I am concerned, the pros far outweigh the cons. Let's dive into the details of my experience.

Pros

Braking Performance: The motorcycle comes equipped with CBS (Combined Braking System) which significantly enhances the braking experience, even when compared to drum brakes or simple disc brakes. This adds a layer of safety and confidence to your rides.

Fuel Efficiency: I have been able to achieve a mileage of 45-50 kmpl, which is quite impressive and offers a commendable range for this class of motorcycle.

Stability: The Unicorn 160 provides excellent stability, even on less than ideal road conditions. This is a feature that makes the ride much more enjoyable and secure.

Maintenance Costs: One of the most appealing aspects of the Unicorn 160 is its relatively low maintenance costs. Regular maintenance can keep your bike in top condition without breaking the bank.

Cons and Points to Consider

Notchiness in Gear Shift: The initial experience with the notchy gear shift can be irritating. However, it's important to note that this is often a temporary issue. As the bike runs in and all the components synchronize, the gear shift becomes smoother and more refined.

Engine Refinement: The engine is incredibly smooth and refined, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. It might take some time for new riders to get used to this level of refinement. It's recommended to choke the engine for the first ride of the day to bring down the engine temperature, enhancing performance and smoothness.

Higher Gear Ratios: The bike's high gear ratios result in a punchy and peppy performance, especially when revving it hard. This makes it a joy for more experienced drivers to explore the bike's full potential.

Conclusion

Overall, I would say that Honda has certainly delivered value for money with the Unicorn 160. The bike has not only impressed me but has also earned a place in my heart.

Honda Hornet: A Recent Addition to the Lineup

As the motorcycle industry continually evolves, new models emerge to meet the changing needs of riders. The Honda Hornet is a prime example of this. I've been using a Honda Hornet for the past 4 months, and this is what my experience has been like.

First Impressions

The first day I took the new Hornet out, I was filled with excitement. Unfortunately, I encountered a few issues, including a notchy gear shift. Let me break down the details.

Notchiness and Smoothness: Initially, the notchiness in the gear shift was quite irritating. The absence of 4 KS (Kick Star) also made it feel like the engine might not be functioning correctly. However, as the engine warmed up and all components synchronized, the issues smoothed out, and the Hornet became a much smoother and refined ride.

Performance and Experience

Engine and Gear Ratios: The engine on the Hornet is incredibly smooth, which could take some time to get used to. The high gear ratios on this bike offer a great deal of punch and peppy performance. This makes it a fantastic choice for experienced riders who want a bike that offers not just speed but also refinement and control.

Prepare Before the First Ride: It's advised to perform a brief warm-up session on the first ride each day. This helps in bringing the engine and other components up to the right temperature, resulting in a smoother and more efficient ride.

Final Thoughts

Despite the initial hiccups, the Honda Hornet shows great promise. Its performance and refinement make it appealing for experienced riders. For those who can adapt to the notchiness and appreciate the smooth engine, the Hornet is an excellent choice.

Keywords

Honda Unicorn 160, Honda Hornet, motorcycle review, motorcycle maintenance, motorcycle performance