The commuter motorcycle segment in India is more dynamic than ever. Among the many contenders, Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) has once again made its presence felt with the Honda SP 160. Launched as an upgrade and extension of Honda’s successful SP line-up, the SP 160 is a refined, performance-focused, and stylish 160cc bike tailored to urban riders seeking both form and function.
Let’s take a detailed look into what makes the Honda SP 160 a compelling option for the modern commuter and a strong contender in the highly competitive 160cc motorcycle market.
1. Design & Styling: Bold Yet Elegant
The first thing that catches the eye about the SP 160 is its design. Honda has smartly carried forward the sportiness of its SP legacy while blending in contemporary aesthetics.
- The aggressive LED headlamp gives the bike a sharp, modern look.
- The muscular fuel tank with extended shrouds enhances its road presence.
- The sporty graphics and angular tail section add a youthful flair, making it ideal for young professionals and college-goers alike.
- The overall stance of the bike, aided by its upright handlebars and slightly rear-set footpegs, adds to both its sporty character and commuter-friendly ergonomics.
The SP 160 comes in six attractive color options including Pearl Spartan Red, Matte Axis Gray Metallic, Pearl Igneous Black, Matte Dark Blue Metallic, Matte Marvel Blue Metallic, and Pearl Deep Ground Gray. Each color scheme is carefully chosen to appeal to a wide range of riders.
2. Engine & Performance: Refined Power Delivery
At the heart of the Honda SP 160 is a 162.71cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that is BS6-compliant and refined to deliver a perfect balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Specifications:
- Power Output: 13.27 PS @ 7500 RPM
- Torque: 14.58 Nm @ 5500 RPM
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
The engine offers linear power delivery, making it ideal for both city rides and occasional highway cruising. The low-end torque is ample, ensuring quick getaways in traffic, while the mid-range performance is smooth and enjoyable.
In typical Honda fashion, the refinement levels are excellent—the engine runs smoothly even at higher revs, and NVH levels are well controlled.
3. Ride & Handling: Comfortable and Confident
One of the standout features of the Honda SP 160 is its commuter-friendly yet sporty dynamics.
- It features a diamond-type frame which keeps the chassis rigid yet light.
- The telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension ensure a comfortable ride over varied road conditions.
- With a wheelbase of 1347 mm, it offers great stability without compromising on maneuverability.
- The seat height of 796 mm makes it accessible to a wide range of riders.
Whether it’s daily commutes or occasional weekend rides, the SP 160 delivers a balanced ride with minimal fatigue.
4. Braking & Safety: Reliable Stopping Power
Safety is paramount in modern motorcycles, and Honda has equipped the SP 160 accordingly.
- The bike comes in two variants: Single Disc and Dual Disc.
- Front Disc: 276 mm petal disc
- Rear Disc (only in the Dual Disc variant): 220 mm petal disc
- Single-channel ABS is standard across both variants
This setup ensures progressive braking and significantly reduces the chances of wheel lock-up, especially on slippery surfaces.
5. Features & Technology: Practical Additions
The Honda SP 160 strikes a balance between essential tech and practical features, avoiding unnecessary gimmicks.
- Fully digital instrument console displays speed, gear position, fuel gauge, trip meter, and clock.
- LED headlight enhances visibility at night and adds to the bike’s modern look.
- Engine start/stop switch, side stand engine cut-off, and hazard switch add to the rider’s convenience and safety.
These thoughtful features make the SP 160 a smart choice for urban riders who value functionality.
6. Fuel Efficiency: Wallet-Friendly Commuting
One of the biggest advantages of the SP 160 is its fuel economy.
- Honda claims an average mileage of around 45-50 kmpl under normal riding conditions.
- Combined with a 12-liter fuel tank, this translates into an excellent range of over 500 km on a full tank, making it ideal for city use and even longer commutes.
Thanks to Honda’s trusted PGM-Fi (Programmed Fuel Injection) system, fuel delivery is optimized for maximum efficiency.
7. Pricing & Variants
As of mid-2025, the ex-showroom price for the Honda SP 160 is:
- Single Disc Variant: ₹1,18,500 (approx.)
- Dual Disc Variant: ₹1,22,900 (approx.)
These prices make the SP 160 a value-for-money offering, especially considering the quality, refinement, and performance it delivers in the 160cc segment.
8. Competitors in the Segment
The SP 160 competes in a hotly contested market. Some of its closest rivals include:
- TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
- Bajaj Pulsar N160
- Hero Xtreme 160R
- Yamaha FZ-S FI
While others may offer slightly more power or aggressive styling, the SP 160 scores high in refinement, comfort, and Honda’s after-sales trust.
9. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Refined and reliable engine
- Sporty yet commuter-friendly design
- Comfortable ergonomics
- Fuel efficient
- Trusted Honda brand and service
Cons:
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity (seen in competitors)
- No dual-channel ABS even in top variant
- Conservative styling compared to Apache or Pulsar
Conclusion: The Everyday Sporty Commuter
The Honda SP 160 is not about raw power or flashy gimmicks—it’s about refinement, reliability, and practicality, all wrapped in a sporty package. For someone looking for a daily commuter with just the right amount of punch, comfort, and low maintenance, this bike hits the sweet spot.
It embodies Honda’s commitment to engineering excellence, offering a bike that does everything well without breaking the bank.
FAQs: Honda SP 160
Q1. What is the top speed of the Honda SP 160?
The SP 160 can reach a top speed of approximately 110–115 kmph, depending on rider weight and road conditions.
Q2. Does the SP 160 come with Bluetooth or navigation?
No, the Honda SP 160 does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or turn-by-turn navigation at this time.
Q3. Is the SP 160 suitable for long rides?
Yes, thanks to its comfortable seat and refined engine, the SP 160 can handle occasional long rides. However, it’s best suited for city and short highway commutes.
Q4. What is the service interval for the SP 160?
Honda recommends servicing the SP 160 every 3,000–5,000 km or as advised in the service manual.
Q5. Is the Honda SP 160 good for beginners?
Absolutely. Its manageable power delivery, smooth engine, and forgiving ride make it an excellent choice for beginners.
For more details, specifications, and latest updates, visit the official Honda SP 160 page.
