Honda has been patenting various scooters in India from its international lineup. The company recently patented the ADV 350, and now it has patented the Vario 160 in India. The Vario 160 is already available in the international markets. The maxi-scooter market in India is seeing a lot of action lately. Yamaha launched the Aerox 155, and then Keeway also launched the Vieste 300 recently. However, the latter is a much more pricey proposition. Honda also wants a piece of the maxi-scooter market and hence, may bring the Vario 160 to India.
Honda’s 160cc scooter has been on sale in Southeast Asian countries for a while. The current Vario 160 is also the seventh generation model. The scooter gets sharp styling, a host of features and a powerful engine. The Vario 160 offers an all-LED headlight, LED DRLs and LED turn signal indicators. At the rear as well, the Vario 160 gets an LED taillight. The design of the scooter is similar to the Yamaha Aerox 155. However, the Vario 160 gets a conventional floorboard. Other features include Honda’s eSP+ technology for the engine, Honda Smart Key System, and a USB charger in the console box.
Powering the Vario 160 is a 160cc, 4-valve, liquid-cooled engine. The motor produces 15.3 PS and 13.8 Nm of torque. These figures are very close to the Yamaha Aerox 155. The Vario 160 makes 0.3 PS more power but 0.1 Nm less torque than the Yamaha Aerox 155. Like the Aerox, the Vario 160 also gets a telescopic front suspension. However, unlike the Aerox 155, the Vario 160 gets a single shock at the rear. The Honda Vario 160 rides on 14-inch wheels with a 100/80 tyre at the front and a 120/70 tyre at the back. The braking hardware consists of disc brakes at both ends. Additionally, it also gets dual-channel ABS as an option. The Vario 160 with ABS tips the scales at 117 kg.
In the past, Honda has patented various products in India. However, very few products made it to the Indian market. Hence, there’s no confirmation if Honda will bring it to the Indian market. If it does arrive, its closest competitor in the market will be the Yamaha Aerox 155. Another sporty scooter it will compete with is the Aprilia SR160.
Also Read: Honda ADV 350 adventure scooter coming to India?