The great honda unicorn vs ns160 debate: which one deserves your garage?

The battle of the 150cc commuters is heating up, and two contenders stand out: the Honda Unicorn and the NS160. Both motorcycles offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and style, but which one is the better choice for your needs? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison of the Honda Unicorn vs NS160.

Engine

The Unicorn boasts a reliable 149.2cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that produces 12.73 bhp of power and 12.84 Nm of torque. The NS160, on the other hand, is powered by a more powerful 162.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that delivers 15.82 bhp and 14.73 Nm. While the NS160 offers a noticeable power advantage, the Unicorn’s engine is known for its smoothness and fuel efficiency.

Design

The Unicorn sports a classic and understated design, with a comfortable upright riding position. The NS160, however, features a more aggressive and sporty aesthetic, with a low-slung stance and a muscular fuel tank. Both motorcycles come with a digital instrument cluster, but the NS160’s is more comprehensive and includes a gear position indicator.

Suspension and Handling

The Unicorn’s suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and a swingarm with five-step adjustable monoshock at the rear. The NS160, on the other hand, employs a more advanced suspension system with USD forks at the front and a monoshock with preload adjustability at the rear. The NS160’s suspension offers a more comfortable and composed ride, especially on rough roads.

Brakes

Both the Unicorn and the NS160 come with a front disc brake and a rear drum brake as standard. However, the NS160 offers an optional dual-channel ABS system that enhances braking performance and safety.

Features

The Unicorn comes with a few basic features, such as a kick-starter, a halogen headlight, and a USB charging port. The NS160, on the other hand, is more feature-rich, with an electric starter, an LED headlight, and a fully digital instrument cluster.

Fuel Efficiency

The Unicorn is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, with a claimed mileage of 60 kmpl. The NS160, while not as fuel-efficient as the Unicorn, still offers a respectable mileage of around 50 kmpl.

Price

The Honda Unicorn is priced at around ₹95,000 (ex-showroom), while the NS160 starts at ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom). The NS160 is more expensive, but it offers a significant improvement in performance and features.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between the Honda Unicorn and the NS160 depends on your individual preferences and requirements. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and a classic design, the Unicorn is an excellent choice. However, if you seek more power, advanced features, and a sporty riding experience, the NS160 is the better option. Ultimately, the best way to make an informed decision is to test ride both motorcycles and see which one suits your style and needs the most.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which motorcycle is more powerful, the Unicorn or the NS160?
A: The NS160 is more powerful, with an engine that produces 15.82 bhp compared to the Unicorn’s 12.73 bhp.

Q: Which motorcycle offers better fuel efficiency?
A: The Unicorn is more fuel-efficient, with a claimed mileage of 60 kmpl compared to the NS160’s 50 kmpl.

Q: Which motorcycle has a more aggressive design?
A: The NS160 has a more aggressive and sporty design, with a low-slung stance and a muscular fuel tank.

Q: Which motorcycle comes with a fully digital instrument cluster?
A: Only the NS160 comes with a fully digital instrument cluster.

Q: Which motorcycle is more expensive?
A: The NS160 is more expensive than the Unicorn, with a starting price of ₹1.10 lakh compared to the Unicorn’s ₹95,000.