Honda Airblade160

The Honda Airblade 160 retains most of the aesthetics that defined it from its initial 2022 release. There are some slight updates in the overall look, as the 2023 / 2024 Airblade 160 sports a sportier and more aggressive exterior which is defined by an angularity that lends an aerodynamic appeal overall. 

Like any scooter, the Airblade 160 is compact, has well-proportioned dimensions, and makes for ease of maneuverability. This combination of compactness and aerodynamic aesthetics helps to make it a lightweight, yet surprisingly tough model. Measuring 1,890 mm long, 686 mm wide, and 1,116 mm tall, the Airblade 160 is compact and ideal for navigating cramped and busy city streets. This feature, combined with its 14-inch inch 100/80-14MC 48P rear and 90/80-14-14MC 43P tubeless front tires, you have a very agile machine that allows for easy and precise handling.

With respect to its other aesthetics, the 2023 revamp of Airblade 160 still retains the old headlight design, with the only change being its V-shaped front fascia with a more pronounced pointed cowl. Atop this is a very negligible windscreen, which looks good, but doesn’t really serve all that much of a function. All its lights have been updated to LEDs, providing not only a new look but better visibility and safety overall. 

Available in Matte Dim Gray Metallic, Pearl Dark Ash Blue 2, and Candy Luster Red, each model features an all-new contrasting waterproofed pleather seating upholstery, along with revamped model badges. 

Beyond its general external appeal, the Airblade 160 also features a completely digital instrument cluster that displays fuel consumption, trip meters, and other relevant information. It also features additional tech, such as a Honda smart-key with anti-theft alarms and an answer-back system, along with a 2.1A USB-A charging port conveniently located in a storage nook at the front of the model. Speaking of storage, it also features a sizeable, rear-mounted UBox compartment. While not as large or as capable of extensive storage, it offers just enough space to store essentials. 

The Airblade 160 lives up to its name, with its lightweight and aerodynamic construction that contributes to its overall agility and maneuverability. With its compact size, telescopic front forks, dual rear shocks, and sizeable wheels, it is perfect for navigating congested urban areas and has enough horsepower to hold its own on prolonged highway drives.

The Airblade 160 features a 157cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke automatic liquid-cooled PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) system engine. This is paired with Honda’s in-house eSP+ technology, which the marque claims to help improve performance and fuel efficiency while reducing emissions and allowing for cleaner combustion. The Airblade 160’s engine delivers a maximum power output of 11.2 kW (give or take 15 hp), at 8,000 rpm, with a maximum torque of 14.6 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

The Airblade 160 also showcases a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with a centrifugal dry clutch, eliminating the need for manual gear shifts. This allows the Airblade 160 to be user-friendly for both novice and veteran drivers. It also features a three-second ISS (Idling Stop System), which turns off the engine automatically after three seconds of idling. To restart, all one needs to do is twist the throttle, eliminating the need to actuate the ignition each time the engine halts.

The Airblade 160 comes with your standard repertoire of safety features for most modern motorcycles and scooters. But where it really shines is in the addition of its Anti-lock Braking System with the addition of a hydraulic disc brake, which prevents the wheels from seizing, while providing ample stopping power. 

Another less-talked-about feature is its tubeless tires, which not only allow for better traction but also do away with the risk of sudden deflation, making it a more durable and long-lasting option.

If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, fuel-efficient scooter that’s perfect for daily commutes and well-suited to the urban lifestyle, the Honda Airblade 160 is an excellent choice.