The Honda Unicorn has long been a household name in India’s motorcycle market, known for its reliability, practicality, and comfort. With the launch of the 2025 Honda Unicorn, Honda aims to strengthen its foothold in the commuter motorcycle segment while introducing some much-needed updates. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this updated model stand out and whether it lives up to its legacy.
Design and Styling:
At first glance, the 2025 Honda Unicorn retains its familiar silhouette, staying true to its commuter roots. However, subtle changes and additions enhance its appeal.
Key Design Highlights:
- LED Headlight: A significant upgrade, the new LED headlight not only improves visibility but also gives the bike a modern look. This has been a long-awaited update for Unicorn fans.
- Dark Black Handlebar: The chrome-finished handlebar has been replaced with a matte black finish, adding a more premium touch to the overall design.
- Revised Graphics and Branding: Honda’s iconic branding alongside new decals enhances the bike’s aesthetics.
- Retained Alloy Wheel Design: While the alloy wheels remain unchanged, their robust design continues to complement the bike’s overall styling.
Despite its conservative design philosophy, the updates bring a touch of modernity to the Unicorn, making it a better fit for 2025.
Digital Instrument Cluster:
One of the most talked-about upgrades in the 2025 Unicorn is its fully digital instrument cluster.
Features of the New Digital Console:
- Speedometer
- Odometer
- Trip Meter
- Fuel Gauge
- Gear Position Indicator
- Engine Check Light
- Service Reminder
- Side Stand Indicator
Compared to the older analog cluster, this digital unit offers more functionality and a modern look. However, some enthusiasts feel that a TFT display, like in Honda’s SP125, could have been an even better addition.
Ergonomics and Comfort:
Honda has always prioritized rider comfort in the Unicorn, and the 2025 model is no exception. The bike features:
- Long Single-Piece Seat: Designed for both rider and pillion comfort, the seat is well-cushioned and ideal for long rides.
- Upright Riding Position: The ergonomics are suited for city commutes as well as highway cruising.
- Grab Handle: A sturdy grab handle ensures safety and convenience for pillion riders, including those sitting sideways.
Performance and Engine:
The 2025 Honda Unicorn is powered by a refined 160cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. While it retains the same engine block, Honda has made minor tweaks to improve efficiency and performance.
Engine Specifications:
- Displacement: 160cc
- Max Power: 12.73 PS
- Max Torque: 14 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
Performance Upgrades:
- Improved Mileage: The Unicorn now offers an impressive mileage of approximately 60 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its class.
- Enhanced Refinement: The engine feels smoother than ever, maintaining Honda’s legacy of reliable and vibration-free engines.
This engine strikes a perfect balance between performance and efficiency, making the Unicorn suitable for daily commutes and occasional long rides.
Suspension and Braking: Balanced for Indian Roads
Honda has made a few changes to the suspension and braking setup to improve the riding experience.
Suspension:
- Front: Telescopic forks
- Rear: Mono-shock absorber
The suspension system absorbs bumps effectively, ensuring a smooth ride on uneven Indian roads.
Braking:
- Front Disc: 240mm
- Rear Drum: 130mm
One noticeable change is the switch from Nissin brake calipers to Endurance calipers. While the rear drum brake remains unchanged, the braking performance feels slightly more responsive. However, a rear disc brake option would have been a welcome addition.
Electricals and Additional Features:
The electrical updates in the 2025 Honda Unicorn add a layer of modern convenience.
Electrical Highlights:
- LED Headlight: Offers brighter illumination for better night visibility.
- Halogen Indicators and Taillight: Retained from the previous model.
- Type-C Charging Port: A thoughtful addition for riders who need to charge their devices on the go.
These updates make the Unicorn a practical choice for today’s tech-savvy riders.
Build Quality and Practicality:
The Honda Unicorn is known for its robust build quality, and the 2025 model is no different. Key features like the metal fuel tank and fiber chain cover ensure durability. The bike also retains its 13-liter fuel tank capacity, which, combined with its excellent mileage, provides a long range for touring.
With a ground clearance of 187mm, the Unicorn is well-suited for Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and rough patches.
Colors and Variants:
The 2025 Honda Unicorn is available in three colors:
- Black
- Red
- Gray
While the previous blue color has been discontinued, the new shades give the bike a fresh appeal.
Pricing: Worth the Upgrade?
The 2025 Honda Unicorn comes with a slight price hike, now starting at around ₹1,41,000 (ex-showroom). The on-road price is expected to cross ₹1,50,000, depending on the state and RTO charges.
Considering the added features like the LED headlight, digital console, and Type-C charging port, the price increase seems justified.
What’s Missing?
While the 2025 Honda Unicorn is a solid upgrade, there are a few areas where it could improve:
- Rear Disc Brake: Offering this as an option would make the bike more competitive.
- TFT Display: A color TFT screen, like in Honda’s SP125, would add a premium touch.
- Wider Tyres: Slightly broader tyres could enhance stability and grip.
Is the 2025 Honda Unicorn Worth It?
The 2025 Honda Unicorn successfully blends reliability, practicality, and modern features, making it an ideal choice for Indian commuters. While it doesn’t offer groundbreaking innovations, the updates make it a compelling option in the 160cc segment.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older Unicorn or looking for a reliable first bike, the 2025 Honda Unicorn checks all the right boxes. It’s comfortable, fuel-efficient, and now comes with modern features that cater to the needs of today’s riders.
If you value dependability over flashiness and want a bike that will serve you well for years, the 2025 Honda Unicorn should be on your radar.