2001 NSR 150SP Review

2001 Honda NSR 150SP

Introducing a bike that, in time, I feel could become quite a little urban legend.

While attending the recent press launch of the new CBR 600 F4i, I had the chance to hop on what will be Honda Australia's new road bike for the learner segment, the NSR150SP.

When one of the Honda guys started it up in pit-lane, with all the noise and wisps of smoke familiar to two strokes, a manic grin instantly appeared across my face and I ran (well hobbled anyway) to get my helmet. Bugger, somebody beat me to it. Nonetheless I did get on the bike for a couple of laps around Phillip Island late in the day to see what the little 150cc machine was capable of.

I achieved just over 170kph down the main straight, a lighter rider managed just over 190, it would probably get on to 200 given a long enough stretch.

There is something about jumping on a two-stroke, slipping that clutch out of the pits etc. that makes me come over all funny and feel like I am leaving the pits on a factory racer during the Grand Prix. Give me a break, a man can dream.......

When talking about performance, I think it necessary that we first mention that Honda Australia is hoping to able to sell this bike in Australia for under $6,000. If they can achieve that aim, it will be fantastic news for young Aussies. The only sporty learner bikes on the market at present are the Aprilia RS models. The 250 RS Aprilia costs nearly $12,500 and in some states is not learner legal. The NSR150SP will be learner legal in all states.

Honda's NSR150SP is not in the league of the Aprilia when it comes to sheer beauty or up-market componentry but when it comes to bang-for-the-buck, the little Honda holds a pretty good hand. I think half the beauty of owning an NSR150SP would be modifying and personalizing it to your tastes.

The NSR150SP is no out-of-the-crate racebike, but it does perform remarkably well for a 150cc model and would provide a source of endless amusement. It made me feel like a big giggling kid (yes even more than normal) so it definitely must do a lot of things right.

How about a race series for these?

Model: NSR 150SP
Manufactured: Thailand
Engine: 2 stroke - crank case reed valve Water cooled engine, RC valve
Displacement: 149 cc
Dry Weight: 122.4 KG
Bore & Stoke: 59.0 x 54.5.0 mm.
Compression Ratio: 6.8 : 1
Transmission: 6 gear Wet multi-disc clutch
Dimensions (L x W x H): 685 x 1,970 x 1,060 mm.
Wheelbase: 1,335 mm.
Maximum power: 39.5 ps/ 10,500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 2.75 kg-m/ 10,000 rpm
Tyres: Front 90/80 - 17, Rear 120/80 - 17
Braking: Disc front and rear, 2-piston calipers
Ignition System: CDI

Thanks to : Mcnews