The Unicorn is the first venture for Honda Motorcycle and Scooters - India in the Indian motorcycle market. The 150cc Unicorn takes on the existing players with extremely high fit and finish levels synonymous with the Honda name.

Developing 13.3 BHP the Unicorn has adequate power to compete with the existing players in the segment. The muscular styling adds to its appeal. The Unicorn incorporates a single high performance rear shock absorber allowing the suspension to be placed closer to the centre of gravity providing better traction and comfort. The Unicorn uses Honda?s global R&D technologies to deliver an ideal combination of fuel efficiency and power.

However, there is more to the Unicorn than just rear suspension. Honda says the motorcycle, like the Eterno, was designed to meet the needs of Indian customers, and in that sense, it is unique within Honda?s huge global range of motorcycles. Honda?s research showed that people buying motorcycles in the premium segment looked at acceleration, fuel economy (not less than 55 kpl), styling, ride comfort and stability, reliability and price as factors in the purchase decision, in that order of importance.

As a result, Honda?s tuned their 13.3 bhp, 149.1cc engine to produce a class-leading 1.3 kgm of torque at a class-lowest 5500 rpm. As a direct consequence, Honda have chosen slightly taller ratios for the gearbox and still claim a 5-second run to 60 kph, which is quicker than the competition (see box). The Unicorn?s engine uses a high torque output, 5-speed gearbox, a CV carburetor and a digital ignition system with multiple maps (similar to Yamaha?s Fazer) to balance high acceleration with steady fuel economy ? Honda claims 60 kpl in daily use.

To tackle ride quality and stability requirements, Honda chooses a combination of a long wheelbase (1,340 mm) and mono-shock rear suspension. In conjunction with a single-downtube frame employing the engine as a stressed member, the Unicorn promises to be supremely stable and possess a very high quality of ride. Honda also assures super ergonomics, to round out what should be a very comfortable motorcycle.