Featuring a more accurate nose down-tail up design language, the new Honda CBR150R looks sharp and the styling is similar to the one seen on the updated CBR500R introduced late last year. In fact, the baby CBR looks sharper with the new front fascia that now comes with split LED headlamps, while the side fairing is tweaked for a slender look complimenting the contoured fuel tank. As a result, the new CBR150R is more aerodynamic that will not help in achieving a higher top speed but also improved fuel efficiency.
The tail section has risen further on the 2016 Honda CBR150R due to the swingarm now being longer by 13mm and works well to provide the right stance. The split seats are new and get improved cushioning with the pillion seat shaped to resemble a cowl. Other updates include LED tail lamp and turn indicators, a completely digital instrument console and slightly tweaked switch gear. No engine kill switch still though. Completing the package are the new wavy alloy wheels and a longer side mounted exhaust.
Unlike its predecessor, the 2016 Honda CBR150R is clearly designed to feel more track dedicated and definitely looks the part. The Japanese manufacturer has also reworked on the diamond frame that is now lighter and gets a centralized engine weight with the unit moved forward by 40-degrees, whereas the riding position is sportier with the foot peg position changed. The bike rides on 100/80/R17 front and 130/70/R17 rear tubeless tyres and has a kerb weight of 135 kg. The fuel tank capacity remains 12-litres.
Power on the 2016 Honda CBR150R facelift continues to come from the same 149.16cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine with fuel injection that gets a re-mapped ECU uprated to produce 17.1PS at 9000rpm and 13.7Nm of peak torque at 7000rpm. The motor is paired to a 6-speed gearbox. Other mechanical bits continue to remain the same with telescopic front forks and a monoshock setup at the rear. The new CBR150R is available in three colour options including Racing Red, Revolution White, Nitro Black and the flagship Repsol edition.
Talking about the India launch of the 2016 CBR150R, it is likely that Honda just might bring in the new model after skipping the pre-facelift version entirely. That said, pricing will remain a key factor for the model which continues to be one of the major deterrents for the outgoing model in the country.
