Honda CB Unicorn 150

The CB Unicorn 150 may look dated in comparison to the current crop of motorcycles in the 150cc segment; however, it’s the bike’s simplistic approach that makes it so popular among the masses. It’s powered by a 149.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 12.9PS of power and 12.8Nm of torque. 

The bike has the same suspension and braking setup as that of its very first-generation model: telescopic forks and a 240mm disc up front and a monoshock and 130mm drum brake at the rear.

The Honda CB Unicorn 150 gets a starting price of Rs 72,633 (ex-showroom Delhi), which makes it one of the most affordable entry-level 150cc offerings currently available in the Indian market. Offered in only two variants - Std and ABS - the CB Unicorn is available in three monotone colour options of grey, black and red.

Since its launch in the market, the Honda CB Unicorn has been facing stiff competition from the Bajaj Pulsar 150. Like the CB Unicorn, the Pulsar 150 too is a dated motorcycle, which still runs strong on the basis of the strong reputation it has created in its lifespan. 

The Honda CB Unicorn 150 follows a subtle design approach with minimal updates over the last decade. The front fascia comprises of a halogen headlight enclosed in a smartly styled bikini fairing with a dash of chrome. It gets a muscular 13-litre fuel tank, a relatively long tail section with a sharp tail light, body-coloured grab rail and chrome highlights for a premium touch. Overall, the bike is devoid of any drama and character lines which resembles most 100cc commuter motorcycles.

Its triple-pod, almost car-like analogue instrument console could do with a makeover. A semi-digital instrument console would add to its appeal. Nonetheless, the current console does just fine with the speedometer, odometer and trip meter sitting smack in between, flanked by a tachometer and fuel gauge on either side. The cluster is well lit at night and the use of bold letters make it easy to read.

The switchgear quality, on the other hand, is average at best and misses out on a kill switch, a customary feature these days. On the contrary, the CB Unicorn 150 does come with AHO (Automatic Headlamp On) which means the headlight comes on by itself once the bike is turned on. 

The bike is powered by a BSIV-compliant 149.2cc air-cooled, four-stroke motor which makes 13PS of power at 8,000rpm and 12.80Nm of torque at 5,500rpm. It comes mated to a 5-speed transmission. While most of its power is made higher up the rev range, its torque kicks in rather quickly at 5,5000rpm. This makes it easier for quick overtakes within city limits. The motor runs smoothly, with vibes kicking in only past 5,500rpm, which can be felt on the fuel tank and handlebars. The Honda CB Unicorn 150’s frugal engine paired with its 13-litre fuel tank returns a company-claimed mileage of 62kmpl.

The Honda CB Unicorn’s suspension setup comprises of conventional telescopic forks and a monoshock at the rear. In fact, it was the first bike in India to feature a monoshock. That said, the rear suspension is noticeably stiffer compared to the front, which tends to get a bit uncomfortable when you come across undulations at high speeds. However, the front suspension, which is set up on the softer side, compensates for the rear by soaking in bumps at slow speeds. 

The bike features an upright riding posture with mid-set footpegs and raised handlebars. Its single elongated seat, on the other hand, is on the stiffer side, a boon during long hauls. In terms of braking, the CB Unicorn gets a single 240mm disc brake up front and a 130mm drum brake at the rear. Honda has updated the Honda CB Unicorn 150 with single-channel ABS which helps it comply with the recent government safety norms. 

The Honda CB Unicorn is a simple and reliable everyday commuter. It offers a stable ride despite our Indian road conditions thanks to its balanced suspension setup. Additionally, the inclusion of single-channel ABS gives riders the confidence to pull on the front brake lever without worrying about losing the front end. That aside, the Auto Headlamp ON (AHO) works as a safety feature during daylight as well as its easier for other vehicles to spot the bike.