Probably one of the worst-kept secrets in the scooter industry, Honda has finally taken the wraps off the new ADV160, the successor to the popular ADV150. As the higher number suggests, it now has a 157cc, four-valve, liquid-cooled engine rated at 15.8hp and 14.7Nm, up 2.8hp and 0.7Nm from the old motor.

It also now comes with traction control, as well as ABS and fancy wave-style disc brakes. The flashy gas-charged Showa shock absorbers at the back provide excellent damping and style points, while the front fork remains a telescopic unit. Tubeless tires with a moderately aggressive tread pattern for light off-roading are mounted on handsome, gold-painted alloy wheels.

The body itself sports a higher windscreen with two settings, while the seat height has been reduced by 15mm to 780mm to make it easier for short-legged people. The all-LED lighting includes an X-pattern taillight, while an emergency stop signal flashes the turn signals quickly when braking suddenly.

Other improvements include a full-digital LCD panel, and a wide matte-brown, tapered handlebar for better leverage. Underseat storage capacity has increased from 28L to 30L, while tank capacity has increased very slightly from 8L to 8.1L.

All of this comes at a price, though, and the ADV160 now has a suggested retail price of P164,900. Available colors are Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, Matte Solar Red Metallic, and Matte Pearl Crater White. Now, it’s anyone’s guess how quickly dealers can replenish the stocks of what’s sure to be a hot-selling scooter.