In India’s highly competitive 160cc motorcycle segment, TVS Apache has long held its position as a crowd favorite. Known for its sporty design, punchy performance, and agile handling, Apache RTR series motorcycles have enjoyed a loyal following. However, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has stirred the pot with the recent launch of the Honda SP 160—a motorcycle that’s not just bold in looks but also smartly priced.
With a striking design, fuel-efficient engine, and advanced features, the Honda SP 160 aims to challenge the dominance of TVS Apache RTR 160. But does it really deliver? Can it lure young buyers and commuters who seek style, performance, and value in one machine? This article explores everything about the Honda SP 160 in detail—from design, engine, features, and mileage to price, safety, and a direct comparison with TVS Apache.
Design: Bold, Modern, and Youth-Centric
The Honda SP 160 brings a sharp and muscular design that’s tailored for the modern rider. It borrows design inspiration from its smaller sibling, the SP 125, but adds more bulk and aggression to match the premium 160cc segment.
Key Design Highlights:
- Sharp LED headlamp with a futuristic look
- Sculpted fuel tank with bold extensions
- Sporty underbelly exhaust
- Split grab rails for a premium feel
- Sleek tail section with LED tail lamp
The SP 160 stands out with its youthful styling and streetfighter-like stance, which appeals to college-goers and young office commuters. Available in six attractive colors including Matte Axis Grey, Pearl Spartan Red, and Pearl Igneous Black, the SP 160 makes a strong visual impact.
Engine & Performance: Reliable Yet Punchy
At the heart of the Honda SP 160 lies a 162.71cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that’s BS6 Phase 2 compliant (OBD2 ready). It’s tuned to deliver a balanced mix of performance and mileage.
Engine Specifications:
- Displacement: 162.71 cc
- Power: 13.46 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
- Torque: 14.58 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
- Gearbox: 5-speed manual
Though not the most powerful in the segment, the SP 160 offers smooth acceleration, refined power delivery, and low-end torque, making it ideal for city riding and occasional highway cruising.
The engine is derived from the Honda Unicorn 160 but tuned slightly differently for a youthful character.
Ride and Handling: Comfortable Yet Confident
Honda bikes are known for their refinement and comfort, and the SP 160 carries that tradition forward. It offers a neutral riding posture, well-padded seat, and an upright handlebar, which together ensure fatigue-free daily rides.
Suspension & Handling:
- Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
- Rear Suspension: Monoshock
- Frame Type: Diamond frame
- Tyres: 17-inch tubeless tyres
- Brakes: Front disc (276mm), rear disc/drum option
The SP 160 provides a stable and planted ride with decent cornering confidence. The monoshock setup and wider tyres help maintain grip and comfort on rough roads.
While it may not match Apache RTR’s race-tuned dynamics, it makes up with better everyday usability.
Features: Digital and Practical
Honda has packed the SP 160 with modern features without overcomplicating things. The fully digital instrument cluster displays all vital information, and the bike also supports engine cut-off at fall, thanks to OBD2 compliance.
Feature Highlights:
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Gear position indicator
- Real-time mileage and average mileage readouts
- Side-stand engine cut-off
- OBD2 diagnostic support
- Optional rear disc brake variant
Though it doesn’t offer smartphone connectivity or turn-by-turn navigation like some rivals, it focuses on what truly matters for a commuter.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency: Economical Performer
Honda claims the SP 160 returns around 45–50 km/l in real-world conditions, which is quite impressive for a 160cc motorcycle.
This fuel efficiency, combined with a 12-liter fuel tank, gives it a commendable range for daily riders and long commutes alike.
In comparison, Apache RTR 160 gives similar or slightly less mileage depending on how it’s ridden.
Price and Variants: Smartly Positioned
One of the biggest strengths of the SP 160 is its competitive pricing. Honda has priced it strategically between its Unicorn 160 and premium rivals like the Apache RTR 160 and Pulsar N160.
Variants and Price (Ex-showroom Delhi):
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
| SP 160 (Single Disc) | ₹ 1,18,500 |
| SP 160 (Dual Disc) | ₹ 1,22,900 |
This pricing makes it more accessible than the Apache RTR 160 2V and even the Pulsar N160 in some regions. It strikes a sweet spot between affordability and performance.
Comparison with TVS Apache RTR 16
Let’s see how the Honda SP 160 fares against the TVS Apache RTR 160 2V in key areas:
| Feature | Honda SP 160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 2V |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 162.71cc, air-cooled | 159.7cc, air-cooled |
| Power | 13.46 bhp @ 7,500 rpm | 15.82 bhp @ 8,750 rpm |
| Torque | 14.58 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | 13.85 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Mileage (Real World) | 45–50 km/l | 40–48 km/l |
| Weight | 139 kg | 140 kg |
| Price (Starting) | ₹ 1.18 lakh | ₹ 1.20 lakh |
| Digital Console | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Disc Variant | Yes | Yes |
Verdict:
- Apache is more powerful and feels racier
- SP 160 offers better mileage, refinement, and comfort
- SP 160 is slightly more affordable for what it offers
Safety and Braking: Reliable and Efficient
The SP 160 comes with single-channel ABS as standard, improving braking confidence on wet and slippery roads. The dual disc variant offers better stopping power and is ideal for those who ride longer distances or want added safety.
Though Apache also offers similar braking hardware, Honda’s safety-focused approach with side-stand engine cut-off and smooth ABS calibration gives it a practical edge.
Pros and Cons
Let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of the Honda SP 160:
Pros:
- Attractive and muscular design
- Refined and reliable engine
- Competitive pricing
- Feature-rich digital console
- Good fuel efficiency
- Comfortable for daily rides
Cons:
- Not the most powerful in segment
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity or riding modes
- Conservative brand image compared to sportier Apache
Who Should Buy the Honda SP 160?
The SP 160 is ideal for:
Daily commuters looking for a stylish, comfortable ride
Riders who value mileage and low maintenance
Young buyers who want a sporty-looking yet practical bike
People looking for an alternative to Apache or Pulsar without overspending
Conclusion: Honda’s Strong Move Against the Apache
The Honda SP 160 is a well-thought-out motorcycle that combines the reliability of Honda, the aggression of a streetfighter, and the practicality of a commuter bike. While it may not outperform the Apache in terms of raw power or thrill, it brings to the table something equally valuable—a refined, feature-packed, fuel-efficient package at a smart price.
For riders who want a stylish alternative to the Apache RTR 160 with better comfort and refinement, the SP 160 makes a compelling case. Honda has clearly understood the pulse of young Indian riders—and the SP 160 is their confident answer to the competition.
With the 160cc segment heating up, the SP 160 has certainly shaken up the market and reminded everyone that Honda isn’t just about scooters and commuter bikes—it’s also ready to take the performance game seriously.