Fresh from its debut in Indonesia in July, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) didn’t waste time and introduced the updated version of its hot-selling adventure scooter. The new Honda ADV 160 is now in the Philippines and I bore witness to its launch together with some members of the media and the community of motovloggers. I also got to try out the newest Honda MC model within the confines of the Honda Safety Driving Center in Parañaque, albeit, for a short period of time.
Available in all Honda 3S dealerships this month, the new Honda ADV 160 comes with the tagline “Discover new excitement.” The updated model builds upon the successes of its predecessor and more, making it better than ever.
As its name suggests, the biggest update in the Honda ADV 160 is with its power plant. Now powered by a slightly bigger 157cc, 4-valve, liquid-cooled, eSP+ engine, the setup aims to balance power and fuel efficiency. It now produces up to 15.8hp at 8,500 rpm, said to be an increase of 10 percent from the outgoing model. Meanwhile, torque has also been increased by 7 percent, now making up to 14.7Nm of pull at 6,500 rpm.
The new Honda ADV 160 also comes with a lower seat height – from 795mm to 780mm. This makes the scooter more approachable even to shorter riders, without sacrificing ground clearance.
During the quick test ride, I was able to test the ADV 150 before the ADV 160, which allowed me to discern the difference between the two. The slight increases in power and torque were discernible as the ADV 160 pulled better than the outgoing model. The updated model was also easier to handle, especially on tight turns and corners.
The Honda ADV 160 also comes with additional features, such as the new Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). It’s an advanced feature that helps balance the work of the wheel rotation, preventing slippage of the rear tires, especially in wet and slippery situations. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is also standard, working in conjunction with wavy disc brakes. There’s also a new USB charging port (Type A), which should benefit those who will take the all-new ADV 160 on long rides.
The all-new ADV 160 also comes with Anti-Theft Alarm and Answer-Back System via the Honda Smart Key System. There’s also an Idling Stop System that reduces fuel consumption and increases efficiency.
As for design, you can easily differentiate the new ADV 160 from the 150 with the matte brown tapered handlebar on the new model – differing from the silver of the old model. The alloy wheels now also come with a matte brown finish, different from the black of the ADV 150. The 160 also has a higher windscreen, adjustable to two levels to provide wind resistance in any situation, while a new full-digital LCD instrument panel provides a clearer display than before.
Practicality’s upgraded as well in the Honda ADV 160. Apart from the USB charging port, the capacity of the luggage box has been increased from 28L to 30L, while the tank is also slightly bigger (from 8.0L to 8.1L). A fuel tank lid holder is also added for convenience while filling up.
The All-New ADV160 is available in three color variants: Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, Matte Solar Red Metallic, and Matte Pearl Crater White. Unlike before, the red ADV doesn’t come with decals anymore. The suggested retail price is P164,900.