Indian bike market has witnessed an onslaught of latest bikes in last two years. From popular Indian bike manufacturers like Bajaj, Hero Honda, TVS etc to international biking wizards like Suzuki, Harley Davidson & others, every company is trying to capture its share of success in Indian motorcycle743 industry. All these renowned automobile manufacturers have rolled out their best bikes on Indian roads. Boosting off modern designs, sporty appearances, latest gadgets, powerful engine and numerous features, the new launch bikes in India have a wide variety for every segment. Various categories like 100cc Bikes, 125cc Bikes, 150-500cc Bikes, Above 500cc Bikes and Electronic Bikes have got a number of options available to choose for your best bike.
Recently, the launch of Yamaha SZ in 150cc segment has challenged the supremacy of Baja Pulsar in this segment. SZ has driven into direct competition with Honda Unicorn, TVS Victor and Bajaj Pulsar. Loaded with 153cc, 4-stroke with air cooled engine alongside some outstanding features, Yamaha SZ is a perfect blend of style & performance. A price tag of Rs. 52,000 makes it easily affordable for middle class. Another popular launch in 150cc segment, being that of Baja Discover 150 has created a buzz in this most popular motorcycle segment in India. The new Doscover 150 features a much powerful 150cc engine along with a promise of best mileage in its class. All this in a price tag of Rs 46,000 makes Bajaj Discover a best buy.
Bike Review Honda-Unicorn 150cc
Honda Unicorn's Styling
The looks might be average but the turnout is good though yet again not in keeping with the exacting Honda standards. HMSI did recall our bike to fix a few detail niggles which were part of the initial batch and we have had no complaints so far. However look at the black screen and the way it integrates with the flaring and there are huge gaps. Whether this is by design or default is hard to make out but its there.
Honda Unicorn's Performance
The clutch actuation is a joy for many riders but there is that typically Honda notchiness (from its big bikes of course) in the first two gears which makes shifts a tad hard, notably when starting from cold. The engine needs a good wringing to get it to really motor but then the emphasis has been always on good mid-range lugging with two astride and this tuned and geared for fuel efficiency means that rapid fire getaways are disappointing. There is a positive aspect to this though, with a sweet low rev cruise band which helps take everyone from point A to point B without fuss and in sheer splendour.
And speaking of splendour, the Honda Unicorn 150's monoshock is the one redeeming aspect which the enthusiast riders in our team crave for. Shame that there is not more performance on tap from the bike to make us exploit the virtues of this directly mounted central shocker. Clearly this Honda is one for the masses and in that scenario it has been playing its part with us to the hilt. Didn't we tell you that the future of the executive segment has all to do with the 150cc class?
