Hero Hunk 160R 4V: strengths, weaknesses

Looking to make an impression among Filipino motorcycle buyers, Hero Motocorp has introduced the Hunk 160R 4V as part of its initial three-model offering in the country alongside the Xoom 110 and XPulse 200 4V. 

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V is a middleweight naked bike that presents would-be owners of the Indian-made motorcycle decent features without breaking the bank. But is an affordable price tag the only thing this nameplate can bring to the table? Find out as we take a quick look at its strengths and weaknesses. 

Pros: 

Discreet styling 

In itself, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V looks somewhat beefy and muscular —- allowing the nameplate to live up to its name. 

However, when compared to other segment staples like the Yamaha MT-15, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V appears to don discreet styling, making it an ideal ride for those who prefer not to stand out. 

At its fore is a sporty — but not too aggressive-looking — cowling that houses its LED headlamps. Two angular fairings flank the light while rectangular-shaped turn signals protrude on its sides. 

Under which, is a short two-tone front fender that shares the black-and-red hues (Blazing Sports Red color option displayed on photo) offered by the motorcycle's fascia. 

The side profile of the Hero Hunk 160R 4V also sports contoured fairings that adds to its sleek and athletic appeal. The tank covers do not have unnecessary appointments, but instead feature seamless surfaces decorated only by the two-wheeler’s nameplate as well as a simple accent decal. 

Its engine gets a simple cover while a chunky muffler guard is slapped on the exhaust. 

The rear end of the Hero Hunk 160R 4V receives a grab bar, typically seen on motorcycles in the same category. Its rear lamp sits on a plastic fender that sticks out to the back with turn signals poking out on each of its sides. 

Overall, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V has looks that will make for an ideal daily driver as it will not catch too much attention whether on the road or inside the parking lot. 

Decent features

Out of the box, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V comes with decent features. 

To begin with, it gets a KYB-branded down suspension (for the range-topping variant) as well as a seven-step adjustable monoshock at the rear. The suspension system makes the motorcycle a good choice for buyers looking for rides that offer both dependability and customizability to best suit their preferences. 

In addition, it has been endowed with petal-style disc brakes (front and back), which can help with deceleration and stopping. 

Further, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V rides on 17-inch wheels that look durable, which are shod with a 100/80 series at the front and a 130/70 series at the rear. The aforementioned tires have the ideal size for daily use as they are not too narrow nor too wide. 

Other notable features include an inverted LCD instrument panel (which displays relevant riding information) and split-type seats for both the rider and the pillion. 

Affordable sticker price 

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V is currently being sold with a sticker price of P99,900. 

For reference, its competitors are typically priced above P100,000. The aforementioned Yamaha MT-15, for example, has a price tag of P179,000. Meanwhile, a similar rival — the Suzuki Gixxer Fi — is priced at P104,900. 

Placing the Hero Hunk 160R under the P100,000 price range opens it up to more buyers, making it an accessible middleweight motorcycle that would suit the needs of those who want to upgrade from small displacement scooters. 

Cons: 

Personalization 

While the Hero Hunk 160R 4V comes in as a good option for penny pinchers, it lacks support for those who might want to personalize their rides in the future. 

Various upgrades such as fairings, side mirrors, and utility boxes might be harder to source for the Hero Hunk 160R 4V compared to other motorcycles. 

Also read: 

 

Hero Xoom 110: hits and misses

Hero Motocorp formally enters ASEAN market

Indian motorcycle brand Hero MotoCorp to enter Philippine market