A little over a week ago, the Haojue NK 160 was launched by the Chinese manufacturer here in Brazil as an update of the old NK 150. The new trail received important updates, such as a larger engine, new equipment, and maintained a competitive price. In practice, the evolution exists and makes the model more interesting for those looking for a versatile motorcycle for everyday life and light dirt roads. Still, performance remains its main weakness.
Visually, the NK 160 does not revolutionize. The design remains simple, but pleases with its functional proposal. The all-LED optical assembly modernizes the motorcycle, while the digital and color panel offers reading of all the information the rider needs. Although it does not have cell phone connectivity (something that usually appears only on larger motorcycles), the USB port is a welcome item for those who use their cell phones while traveling.
Another important advance was the adoption of disc brakes on the rear wheel. The ABS system acts only on the front, a solution that allows the rear wheel to be locked on stretches off the asphalt, a feature appreciated by some motorcyclists who use the motorcycle on dirt roads.
In practice, the model was right to bring the basics without burdening prices, since many equipment, such as traction control, disconnectable ABS at the rear and connectivity with the cell phone, would increase the cost of the new Haojue NK 160.
Motor upgrade
In the engine part, the single-cylinder went from 150 to 162 cm³ and now delivers 14.3 hp of power and 1.48 kgfm of torque, numbers about 20% higher than those of the predecessor. Performance has increased in practice as well, but still, the throttle response is not exciting.
Although the power gain is noticeable compared to the NK 150, the acceleration remains modest. In resumptions and overtaking, the set requires planning and reduces the expectations of those who expect a more vigorous 160 cm³ trail.
According to the manufacturer itself, its top speed is only 105 km/h. As much as high speed is not the model’s proposal, the new Haojue remains behind competing models in terms of track performance.
Ergonomics
The riding position is also on a negative side of the bike. The high handlebars, ground clearance and suspensions did their job, but this set, combined with the footpegs, left the feet in a very backward position. The riding, on the legs, almost resembles that of a sports bike, taking the bike’s proposal to other places.
Despite everything, the 19-inch wheels at the front and 17 at the rear form a perfect pair for the size of the bike, helping to face potholes and bumpy sections.
Haojue NK has evolved
In the end, the Haojue NK 160 is a consistent evolution over the old NK 150. It delivers a competitive equipment package and an interesting price within the category. As much as some ergonomics and acceleration points leave something to be desired, for those looking for a reliable, comfortable trail bike focused on everyday use, the NK 160 fulfills its mission well. Those who value faster throttle responses will probably find more interesting options among competitors.
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