Honda Vario 160 ABS: The commuter that turns heads

When you think of scooters, the words "practical" and "efficient" usually come to mind. But what if one manages to be both — and also scream personality? That is what you get with this Honda Vario 160 ABS, currently owned by Fahim Khandaker. 

He picked it up a few months ago, when it had around 10,000 km on the clock. Since then, he has added a little over 1,000 km — not a lot, but enough to appreciate just how unique this machine is.

Visually, the scooter is a complete head-turner. It sports a custom dual-tone white paint job with a subtle blue pearlescent tint that pops in the sunlight but is difficult to capture on camera. The hydro dipped carbon finish on the side panels gives it a premium, almost concept-bike look.

The hydro dipped carbon finish on the side panels gives this Vario a premium, almost concept-bike look. PHOTO: Akif Hamid

There is a long list of aftermarket cosmetic bits: Asura front mudguard, side fender flares, a rear body kit, carbon-fiber patterned exhaust cover and tip, and an upgraded switch panel. All of it ties in nicely with the scooter's aggressive design language.

LED backlights and indicators add a touch of modernity, and the custom taillight — in particular — really stands out on the road. It's sharp, distinct, and very visible in traffic.

Rolling on Michelin City Grip 2 tyres (120/70/14 rear, 110/70/14 front) that have done around 1,500 km, the scooter maintains excellent grip, which is key for city commuting.

The 14-inch rims are larger than what is typically offered in scooters. PHOTO: Akif Hamid

For something built with practicality in mind, the Vario delivers a surprisingly premium feel. The cluster has that familiar Honda vibe — reminiscent of the CBR series — and all the buttons feel solid and tactile. No creaky panels or cheap plastic here. Even when you flex the body panels, they hold strong.

Up front, there are two storage units under the cluster. One even includes a USB port for charging your phone on the go. The 18 litre underseat storage isn't massive, but it can hold a half-face helmet or a small bag — enough for most quick trips.

Other small but neat additions include a Vario floor mat and upgraded adjustable brake levers, which offer better control and match the bike's overall sporty theme.

The 18 litre underseat storage can hold a half-face helmet or a small bag. PHOTO: Akif Hamid

Coming from my TVS Ntorq, the difference in seating was immediate. The Vario felt more relaxed, thanks to the better seat ergonomics and slightly raised leg rest. My legs could bend more, which made longer rides far more comfortable.

Under the bodywork lies a 160cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder SOHC engine making 11.3 kW and 13.8 Nm. Not massive figures, but paired with the Vario's 14-inch wheels, it delivers a punchy ride. Acceleration is almost electric-like — smooth, instant, and addictive. It can hit 80 km/h effortlessly.

Although I wish the exhaust sounded a bit meaner. While the exhaust looks cool with the carbon finish, a throatier note would have matched the Vario's aggressive look perfectly.

The exhaust looks cool but a throatier note would have complimented the Vario’s aggressive look perfectly. PHOTO: Akif Hamid

Braking is a strong point. The dual Nissin disc setup and upgraded YSS front fork provide solid, predictable braking. The levers engage instantly and offer consistent feedback both front and rear, which boosts confidence when navigating through chaotic Dhaka traffic.

The suspension however, is too stiff for my liking. Yes it did feel great during the spirited cornering on smooth roads, but it is really punishing on rougher patches. Every pothole and bump transfers straight to your arms. Fahim plans to switch to a softer suspension soon, which should make a world of difference for everyday use.

In Bangladesh, premium scooters are still a rare sight. Besides the Yamaha Aorex and Lifan KPV, there aren't many options — and even those lack practical features like legroom or decent underseat storage. This is where the grey market Vario stands tall.

It offers both function and flair. Whether you're a biker looking to transition into something more practical, or a style-conscious commuter, the Vario ticks most of the right boxes. And with endless aftermarket support, it's a blank canvas for anyone who wants to make it their own — just like the previous owner did for Fahim.

At Tk4.30 lakh, it is not exactly cheap, but it is a premium scooter from Honda, and with the right mods, it becomes something truly special.

Specifications:

Engine: 160cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder SOHC

Transmission: Automatic

Max Power: 11.3 kW at 8,500 rpm

Max Torque: 13.8 Nm at 7,000 rpm

Price: Tk4.30 lakh