2023 Honda ADV160 vs Yamaha NVX - Which one is better?

When it comes to choosing a two-wheeler in Malaysia, the two major brands that pop up in our minds are Honda and Yamaha. Both offer versatile, practical, and affordable options to Malaysian riders that well serve different purposes such as commuting to work, exploring new roads, or just cruising around town. As the title reads, today we will be comparing the two popular maxi-scooters belonging to each brand - Honda ADV160 and Yamaha NVX to help you make an informed decision if you are looking for a scooter in this segment. So, let’s get started.

Price 

Model	Price (on-the-road, without insurance)
Honda ADV160	RM 12,999
Yamaha NVX	RM 9,598 (Standard variant) RM 11,498 (ABS variant)

While the Honda scooter comes in a single trim equipped with ABS, the Yamaha NVX is offered in two trims - Standard and ABS. The Honda ADV160 is dearer by RM 1,500 than the range-topping NVX.

Colour

Model	Colour options
Honda ADV160	Vivacity Red and Matte Charcoal Gray Metallic
Yamaha NVX	Mystique Ruby and Platinum Navy (for ABS variant) & Cyan & Matt Grey (for Standard variant)

Dimensions

Specs	Honda ADV160	Yamaha NVX
Length	1,950 mm	1,980 mm
Width	763 mm	700 mm
Height	1,196 mm	1,150 mm
Wheelbase	1,324 mm	1,350 mm
Ground clearance	165 mm	145 mm
Seat height	780 mm	790 mm
Weight	133 kg	122 kg (Standard) 125 kg (ABS)
Fuel Tank	8.1-litre	5.5-litre (promises 200 km drive per tank)
Underseat storage	30 litres	25 litres
Wheels	14-inch alloy front with 110/80 tyre 13-inch alloy rear with 130/70 tyre	14-inch rear and front wheel shod with 110/80 front and 140/70 rear tyres

The ADV160 is wider and taller than the NVX, thus offering riders better comfort and riding height. When it comes to length and wheelbase, the Yamaha scooter is longer by 30 mm and 26 mm, respectively. 

The ADV 160 has an impressive fuel tank capacity that eliminates the need for frequent refuelling stops and thus makes it more convenient for the rider. It also offers a larger under-seat storage area accommodating more essential stuff than the Yamaha scooter. True to its name, the ADV has a better ground clearance promising improved handling and stability on rough roads and trails. However, it weighs almost 8 to 11 kg heavier than the NVX.

Engine specifications

Specs	Honda ADV160	Yamaha NVX
Engine	156.9-cc eSP+ single-cylinder, liquid-cooled mill fed by PGM-Fi	155-cc liquid-cooled, SOHC, single-cylinder with Variable Valve Actuation
Max power	15.82 PS at 8,500 rpm	15.4 PS at 8,000 rpm
Max torque	14.7 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm	13.9 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm
Transmission	CVT	CVT

The Honda adventure scooter is powered by a 156.9-cc eSP+ single-cylinder mill which is fed by PGM-Fi. The Yamaha model, on the other hand, comes with a 155-cc liquid-cooled, SOHC VVA engine. In terms of output levels, both units deliver almost the same power with the ADV 160 delivering a higher torque than the NVX.

Features

Specs	Honda ADV160	Yamaha NVX
Headlight	LED with daytime running lights	LED
Tail light	LED	LED
Instrument console	Fully digital with all information on one screen, including warning lights	Fully digital LCD with smartphone connectivity option via Yamaha Y-Connect app
USB  charger	5V 2.1A (in the console box)	12V DC (in the front cowl)
Keyless entry	Honda Smart Key	Yes (ABS)
Adjustable windscreen	Yes	No
Driver-assistance tech	Honda Selectable Torque Control (aka traction control)	NA

In terms of features, both scooters are equally attractive. Both come with LED headlights, fully digital panels, and smart keyless systems. 

However, what keeps the ADV160 one step ahead is the inclusion of Honda Selectable Torque Control (also known as traction control). This driver-assistance system is typically found on motorbikes with engine capacities above 250cc; it can sense when there is a potential loss of traction in the rear wheel and adjust torque accordingly, allowing the tyre to maintain grip and providing riders with better stability on the road.

Suspension & braking

Specs	Honda ADV160	Yamaha NVX
Front Suspension	Telescopic	Telescopic
Rear Suspension	Twin gas-charged sub-tank shock absorbers	Twin shock absorbers adjustable for preload (ABS)/ Spring preload-adjustable (Standard)
Front brakes	240 mm petal disc	230 mm single hydraulic disc with ABS / Single Hydraulic Disk (Standard)
Rear brakes	220 mm petal disc	Mechanical drum

Both scooters are equipped with reliable and efficient mechanisms for absorbing shocks and slowing down or stopping, ensuring the rider's comfort and stability. 

Verdict 

In the end, we conclude the Honda ADV160 and Yamaha NMax are great options that are worth considering. The latter comes at a higher price, which is quite justified by HSTC, a bigger fuel tank, and higher ground clearance. So ultimately, the choice boils down to individual preferences and requirements. 

Also read: All-new Honda XL750 Transalp coming to Malaysia!