Honda SP160 vs Honda Unicorn - Differences Explained In 10 Pics

The SP160 is a sporty, stylish take on the Unicorn, and we list out the differences between the two, visually

Honda has recently launched the SP160, a new and stylish commuter motorcycle. This model is a sportier iteration of the well-established Honda Unicorn. Naturally, this leads us to question the distinctions between the two. Let's delve into the details:

Design:

In terms of design, the Unicorn maintains its classic commuter-oriented aesthetics, characterized by clean and simple lines. In contrast, the SP160, positioned as a sporty commuter, boasts a muscular tank design with extended tank panels, sharper design lines on the side and rear panels and also gets a beefier headlight cowl. Notably, the M-shaped tail light, along with the other design elements adds a bolder and more dynamic appearance to the motorcycle. True to its name, the SP160 resembles a larger and more muscular sibling of the Honda SP125, showcasing numerous similarities.

Engine:

The engine remains the same between the two motorcycles. They are powered by a 162.71cc, single-cylinder, BS6.2-compliant, counterbalanced engine producing 13.4PS and 14.58Nm and paired with a 5-speed gearbox.

Underpinnings:

Both motorcycles share a diamond frame, telescopic fork, and monoshock. However, the SP160 is equipped with a larger 276mm petal disc brake at the front, while the Unicorn gets a more 240mm conventional disc. While the Single Disc variant retains the Unicorn's 130mm rear drum brake, the Double Disc variant employs a 220mm unit at the rear. 

While the SP160 rides on larger 18-inch wheels, the Unicorn gets smaller 17-inch units. Though the front tyre is a 80-section unit on both bikes, the SP160 is shod with a fatter 130-section rear as opposed to the 100-section unit on the Unicorn

Features: 

In terms of features, both motorcycles come standard with single-channel ABS. The SP160 boasts a fully digital LCD instrument console, whereas the Unicorn is equipped with a triple-pod analogue unit. While much of the same information is displayed on both bikes, the SP160 provides additional data, including mileage, gear position, and clock readings.

There are not many differences between the dimensions and specifications of both motorcycles. 

Price: 

The Honda SP160 is available in two variants: Single Disc and Dual Disc, with their prices being Rs 1,17,500 and Rs 1,21,900 respectively. The Honda Unicorn, on the other hand, is priced at Rs 1,09,800 (all prices ex-showroom).

Though the SP160 comes equipped with a digital LCD instrument console, disc brakes on both ends, and contemporary sporty design elements, contributing to a more modern appearance, it still doesn’t really justify the hefty premium of Rs 7,700, at least on paper.