The Airblade160 might just be the most underrated scooter in Honda's stable. Here’s why.
Gilbert Chao · Mar 26, 2023 01:00 PM
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Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI) has been dominating the local scooter scene in recent years, and it seems Honda is bent on keeping it that way for the years to come.
Honda has been covering all bases with a presence in all market segments. It even has four models just in the 160cc scooter segment. For the adventurous rider, they have the ADV160; for the executive on the go, there’s the PCX160; and the Click160 is for those who would like to have some oomph in their commuting. The Airblade160, well, it is for all of the above. Yet, I think it doesn’t seem to be getting the attention it deserves.
Best value for money
The Honda Airblade160 is the sibling craving for some attention. PHOTO BY KIT PILLA
Save for the Honda Selectable Traction Control (HSTC) on the PCX160 and ADV160, the Airblade160 practically has everything expected on a premium commuter scooter. Its 157cc, liquid-cooled, 4-valve, eSP+ engine offers best-in-class performance with 11.2 kW and 14.6 Nm. The Airblade160 is also one of the most affordable scooters equipped with ABS.
Despite his above-average height, Motorcycle Editor Gilbert Chao seems to be at home with the Airblade160. PHOTO BY KIT PILLA
The Airblade160 features an Idling Stop System (ISS), which automatically shuts off the engine while waiting at stop lights. Based on the World Motorcycle Test Method, this enables it to achieve 47.5 kilometers per liter.
Easy-operation
It's tough to be a Jack of all trades. PHOTO BY KIT PILLA
You get a smart key system on the Airblade160 that allows the rider to operate without fishing a conventional key from his pocket. It also has an answer back function and anti-theft alarm to ensure your ride stays where you parked it.
Unique styling
Our Motorcycle Editor is asking you a question. What do you think? PHOTO BY KIT PILLA
While the Airblade160 has those aggressive lines in abundance, the absence of cartoonish decals results in a sporty yet elegant appearance. The special edition variant of the Airblade160 comes in matte gray with a glossy finish, unlike the usual matted finish with a texture similar to a chalkboard. It makes me cringe just thinking about it.
With an SRP of ₱125,900, some would even suggest that the Honda Airblade160 is too good to be true. I have one question, though. Does this scooter make me look fat?
A moto-journo who spends most of his time on the saddle unless otherwise saddled with desk work. His curious nature and poor sense of direction often take him on unplanned adventures.
