Which Gives Better Mileage and Comfort Between Honda Unicorn and CB Unicorn Bike?

When it comes to reliable commuter motorcycles in India, Honda Unicorn has remained a timeless choice for decades. Known for its balanced design, excellent comfort, and strong mileage performance, it continues to attract riders who value practicality over flashy features. Alongside, the CB Unicorn bike, which represents Honda’s earlier offering in the same category, has built a strong legacy in the Indian Two Wheeler market.

If you are planning to buy a commuter motorcycle in 2025 and are stuck between choosing the Honda Unicorn or the CB Unicorn bike, this article will help you compare both models in terms of mileage, comfort, performance, features, and affordability.

A Brief Overview of Honda Unicorn and CB Unicorn

Honda Unicorn

The Honda Unicorn is one of the most trusted motorcycles in India. It is designed with daily commuters and long-distance riders in mind. With a refined 160cc engine, practical features, and an upright seating position, the Unicorn strikes a balance between performance and fuel economy.

CB Unicorn Bike

The CB Unicorn bike was one of the first premium commuters from Honda launched in India. Known for introducing mono-shock suspension to the Indian market, it offered a smooth riding experience that appealed to office-goers and young professionals. Although Honda shifted its focus more towards the new Unicorn 160, the CB Unicorn remains a benchmark for comfort and simplicity.

Engine and Performance: Honda Unicorn vs CB Unicorn Bike

• Honda Unicorn
  The Unicorn is powered by a 162.7cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder BS6 engine that produces around 12.7 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 14 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. The engine is refined, smooth, and built for daily commuting as well as weekend rides. It features Honda Eco Technology (HET), which ensures fuel efficiency without compromising performance.
• CB Unicorn Bike
  The CB Unicorn bike was equipped with a 149.2cc single-cylinder engine, generating 13.3 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 12.8 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. While it offered great refinement for its time, the performance leaned more towards city rides rather than highway cruising.

Verdict: The Honda Unicorn offers better performance and torque delivery, making it more versatile than the CB Unicorn bike.

Mileage Comparison

Fuel efficiency is one of the most crucial factors for Indian buyers.

• Honda Unicorn Mileage: The bike delivers around 55–60 km/l, depending on riding conditions. Its engine refinement ensures smooth and fuel-efficient rides, especially for office commutes and long-distance travel.
• CB Unicorn Bike Mileage: The CB Unicorn returned an average of 50–55 km/l, which was impressive during its era but slightly lower compared to the modern Honda Unicorn.

Verdict: The Honda Unicorn edges ahead with slightly better mileage thanks to its updated BS6 engine and Honda Eco Technology.

Comfort and Ride Quality

Comfort has always been a highlight of both motorcycles.

• Honda Unicorn:

• • • Upright seating posture suitable for long-distance rides.
    • Spacious single-piece seat with adequate cushioning.
    • Long wheelbase and 790 mm seat height make it stable and comfortable for riders of all heights.
    • Advanced mono-shock rear suspension and telescopic front forks absorb road undulations smoothly.

• CB Unicorn Bike:

• • Introduced mono-shock suspension in India, which was revolutionary at its time.
  • Comfortable seat design and relaxed riding stance.
  • Slightly lighter frame compared to the new Unicorn, making it nimble in city traffic.

Verdict: Both offer excellent comfort, but the Honda Unicorn feels more modern and versatile with updated ergonomics and suspension tuning.

Features and Technology

• Honda Unicorn Features:

• • • BS6 engine with programmed fuel injection for better efficiency.
    • Side-stand engine cut-off for safety.
    • Engine stop switch and maintenance-free battery.
    • Stylish alloy wheels and modern graphics.

• CB Unicorn Bike Features:

• • Basic instrumentation with analogue speedometer and tachometer.
  • Iconic diamond-frame chassis.
  • Sleek design and chrome accents.

Verdict: The Honda Unicorn is more feature-rich and meets the demands of today’s riders, while the CB Unicorn bike focused on simplicity.

Price Comparison

• Honda Unicorn Price (2025): Around ₹1.10 – ₹1.15 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
• CB Unicorn Bike Price (Discontinued): When last available, it was priced at around ₹70,000 – ₹80,000.

While the CB Unicorn bike was more affordable, it is no longer available in the market. The Honda Unicorn justifies its price with modern features, better fuel economy, and BS6 compliance.

Maintenance and Reliability

Honda bikes are known for low maintenance costs and long-term reliability.

• The Honda Unicorn is BS6-ready, has better parts availability, and requires minimal maintenance when serviced regularly.
• The CB Unicorn bike, while reliable, may pose challenges in spare part availability since it is discontinued.

Which Bike Offers Better Mileage and Comfort?

If mileage is your top priority, the Honda Unicorn is the clear winner with its modern engine and fuel-efficient technology. In terms of comfort, both bikes perform exceptionally well, but the Honda Unicorn again stands out because of its refined suspension, larger seat, and updated ergonomics.

The CB Unicorn bike has nostalgic value and served as a benchmark during its time, but for today’s buyers, the Honda Unicorn is the smarter, future-ready choice.

Why Riders Prefer Honda Unicorn in 2025

1. Fuel efficiency: Delivers up to 60 km/l.
2. Comfort: Upright riding stance and cushioned seat for city and highway rides.
3. Reliability: Honda’s proven engine technology ensures durability.
4. Affordability: Competitive pricing compared to other 160cc motorcycles.
5. Resale Value: Honda bikes, especially the Unicorn, hold good resale value in the second-hand market.

Financing Options with Two Wheeler Loans

If the Honda Unicorn fits your requirement, but budget is a concern, you can opt for a Two Wheeler Loan from leading financial institutions.

• Loan Tenure: Flexible repayment options of up to 36–48 months.
• EMI Calculator: Use a loan EMI calculator to check your monthly outflow before applying.
• Low Down Payment: Some lenders offer up to 90–95% financing on-road price.
• Affordable Interest Rates: Competitive rates make owning the Honda Unicorn easy for salaried and self-employed individuals.

Final Verdict

When comparing Honda Unicorn and CB Unicorn bike, the Unicorn emerges as the better option for today’s riders. It offers improved mileage, refined comfort, updated technology, and low maintenance costs. While the CB Unicorn bike holds nostalgic value and is remembered for introducing mono-shock suspension in India, it has been overtaken by the practicality and features of the modern Honda Unicorn.

So, if you’re planning to buy a reliable commuter motorcycle in 2025, the Honda Unicorn should be your top pick. With easy financing options like Two Wheeler Loans, owning one has become more affordable and convenient than ever.

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