2021 Honda RS-X: First Impression

The underbone motorcycles are all the rage these days in Malaysia and the reasons are their affordability, practicality, lightweight, and easy maneuverability. Among lots of options available on the market in this segment is the Honda RS150R that just received a significant upgrade in the form of the all-new 2021 Honda RS-X. 

Boon Siew Honda (BSH), the official distributor of Honda motorcycles in Malaysia, recently launched the new RS-X, which was much awaited by kapchai enthusiasts. Here, we have the new Honda RS-X first impression, have a look.

2021 Honda RS-X Design and features

Being an underbone motorcycle, the RS-X looks sporty from every angle. With a full cowl appearance and dual-LED headlights, it boasts an aggressive-looking front fascia. Complementing the front setup is a sporty and slim tail end fitted with a full-LED tail light. Further, the new muffler design gives the bike a rugged look. The bike rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with a 90/80 front and a 120/70 rear tyre.

Adding more liveliness to the overall appearance is the new contour-shaped seat and a fully digital speedometer. The latter unit is modern, stylish yet informative providing all the important information to the rider in clear text and graphics. 

Another highlight of the new Honda RS-X is a Seat Opener switch positioned on the handlebar. It unlocks the bike’s seat at the fingertip and eases up the day-to-day riding experience.

2021 Honda RS-X Dimensions

Based on the twin-tube chassis, the 2021 Honda RS-X is 2,019 mm long, 727 mm wide, and 1,104 mm tall. Other specifications are

• Wheelbase: 1,278 mm
• Seat Height: 795 mm
• Ground Clearance: 148 mm
• Curb Weight: 122 kg

2021 Honda RS-X Colours

The new Honda RS-X is available in three colour choices - Lemon Ice Yellow, Candy Caribbean Blue Sea, and Trico Edition. The latter is a combination of Honda red, white, and blue.

2021 Honda RS-X Engine specifications

Powering the new Honda RS-X is a 149.2-cc single-cylinder engine that has four valves and is liquid-cooled. It has a DOHC setup (double overhead cam) for enhanced performance and fuel economy. It is fitted with a PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) system offering a crisp throttle response. The motor churns out a maximum power output of 15.8 hp at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 13.6 Nm at 7,000 rpm. Power is channeled to the ground via a 6-speed manual gearbox and chain final drive. The fuel tank capacity is measured as 4.5 litres.

2021 Honda RS-X suspension and braking system

The suspension duties of the new Honda RS-X are taken care of by the conventional telescopic forks on the front and a preload-adjustable mono-shock on the rear. This setup can soak bumps and potholes decently well. As for braking, the underbone motorbike is fitted with dual disc brakes on both ends, however, the front wheel also features a single-channel ABS for better riding control and confidence. 

2021 Honda RS-X price

Honda retails the new RS-X for RM 8,688 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration). It stands head-to-head against the Yamaha Y16ZR, which is priced at RM 10,888.

Summing up

Overall, the new Honda RS-X offers sporty styling, good performance, and advanced features for a comfortable riding experience. What are your thoughts on this new kapchai in town, let us know in the comments.

Also read: Honda's new touring bike for the international market, 2022 NT1100