Versatile, convenient and a delight to zoom around with, Honda’s ADV160 is a dynamic scooter at an affordable price. Compact and nimble enough to make riders feel confident while navigating traffic, yet powerful enough to make any commute a thrill, the ruggedly styled ADV160 truly earns its adventurous moniker. Equipped with ample under-seat storage, an advanced digital instrument cluster and a USB charging port, the ADV160 combines the practicality of urban commuting with the excitement of a new experience on every ride, making it the ideal two-wheel companion.
HISTORY
Initially offered in the Asian market in 2019, the ADV150 was essentially a small-displacement version of the X-ADV maxi-scooter, putting the “City Adventure” concept in a smaller package. It was first offered in the U.S. for the 2021 model year. Honda upsized the unique scooter for the Asian market in 2023 and renamed it the ADV160, which has been offered in the U.S. since the 2024 model year.
DESIGN / STYLING
Styling should not come at the expense of comfort or range, which is why Honda took all aspects into account when finalizing the ADV160’s unique crossover design. The result is a machine that only Honda could imagine—rugged, comfortable and incredibly practical. Still very much intended for around-town commutes, the ADV160 features ample storage, great wind protection and an elevated rear seat that lets a passenger take in the scenery. Additional considerations were made for range and ease of use, the ADV160 featuring a centerstand and side stand, as well asa 12-volt accessory adapter for keeping personal electronics charged. It also has a 2.1-gallon fuel tank which, when combined with the scooter’s frugal fuel economy, results in impressive range for day-to-day adventures.
- The ADV160 has a 30.7-inch seat height which, along with the carefully shaped seat, makes it easy for riders to reach their feet to the ground at stops.
- The tapered handlebar is set low, to maintain a comfortable riding position.
- Under-seat storage compartment has a total capacity of 27 liters—plenty of space for carrying gear for work, school or adventures.
- Bodywork has a sporty appearance, with wide leg shields offering protection from weather.
- The two-position toolless-adjustable windscreen provides good protection from wind and weather in its highest setting. In the low setting, a comfortable breeze is allowed.
- Information is easily accessible. The square-shaped main LCD meter displays date, time, oil-change indicator, fuel meter, odometer, A and B trip meters, speedometer, instant fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, air temperature, battery voltage and fuel meter. A separate sub-meter displays turn signals, high beam, coolant temperature and fuel injection.
- The ADV160’s rugged design is intended to spark a rider’s adventurous spirit.
- A 2-liter dash compartment provides convenient storage of small items, while an inner accessory socket allows charging of electronic devices.
- The compact, individual turn signals and slim rear fender create a lightweight, dynamic image.
- The muffler is compact and positioned high for tough, adventure-ready looks.
- All-LED lighting to minimize size, weight and energy consumption, and to maximize mass-centralization and illumination.
- The taillight is separate from the rear turn signals, and incorporates an “X” design that expresses the crossover concept.
- With Honda’s Smart Key system, the scooter’s main knob is automatically activated as the owner approaches, and the engine can be started without inserting the key. (An on/off switch prevents a third party from using the scooter even when the owner is in the vicinity.) The system incorporates an “answer-back” switch that flashes the turn signals to help the owner locate the scooter, as well as an anti-theft mechanism whereby the handlebar remains locked when an attempt is made to start the scooter by force. The fuel lid and seat are unlocked via a rocker switch adjacent to the main knob.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
This “City Adventure” scooter features the same four-valve, 156.9cc eSP+ engine that debuted in the popular PCX. The engine is powerful, and its fuel-efficient enhanced Smart Power (eSP+) design features advanced technologies that optimize efficiency and minimize emissions. The air-intake/exhaust system is optimized, and ample torque in the low and middle rev ranges helps the rider to tackle varying terrain. The ADV160 offers a smooth power delivery that helps it stand out in cities or on backroads.
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)—the advanced rider aid that has been popular with customers of high-performance Honda sport bikes and adventure bikes—is standard on this scooter, helping to maintain grip even when traction is scarce.
- A diagonally mounted muffler has an inner pipe structure and catalyzer location that are optimized to minimize emissions and deliver good performance in varying conditions.
- The continuously variable Honda V-Matic automatic transmission provides a smooth power delivery and requires no shifting, enabling riders to concentrate on the ride.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
Adventure is just around the corner, which is why the ADV160 has features that help riders venture off the beaten path. ADV-style suspension and tires are robust, while the scooter’s ground clearance lends itself to rough-road exploration. Commutes and city-street riding are also taken into account, the ADV160’s chassis emphasizing nimble handling and a low center of gravity.
- The engine, drivetrain and fuel tank are mounted low in the frame, optimizing the center of gravity. This contributes to the confidence-inspiring handling, especially in parking lots or tight traffic conditions.
- The lightweight, compact frame has optimized rigidity characteristics to manage rough backroads.
- The wheels have narrow spokes (12 front, 10 rear), to transmit a consistent load from rim to axle. This provides the rider with accurate information about the road surface and helps him or her to make informed riding inputs.
- The 31mm telescopic Showa fork has a class-leading front-suspension travel of 5.1 inches.
- The twin piggyback Showa shocks offer 4.1 inches of travel and consistent damping force. Their triple-rate springs deliver progressive loading for excellent road-holding performance in varying situations, including two-up riding and traveling through rough terrain.
- A petal-style, 240mm front brake rotor minimizes unsprung weight and sheds water and debris from the brake-pad surface, while a 131mm drum rear brake aids in overall stopping performance. Front ABS is standard.
- The model-specific wide, tubeless tires feature a block pattern that works well in conditions from urban roads to rugged bypasses.
- For maximum strength, the handlebar features a tapered design (28.6mm at the clamp area), similar to those of larger adventure models like the Africa Twin. The position is low to match the low seat height.
