Honda AirBlade 160 vs Monarch Tempest 250
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Honda AirBlade 160 vs Monarch Tempest 250 — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification |
Honda AirBlade 160
₱119,900
|
Monarch Tempest 250
Monarch
₱135,000
|
|---|---|---|
| Full Specification | ||
| Type | Scooter | Sport |
| Engine | Single cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC | Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Air Cooled |
| Max Power | 15.02 hp at 8,000 rpm | 20 hp |
| Max Torque | 14.6 Nm at 6,500 rpm | 19 Nm |
| Displacement | 157cc | 250 cc |
| Front Brake | Disc with ABS | Disc |
| Rear Brake | Drum | Drum |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4.4 L | 14 L |
| Seat Height | 775 mm | 800 mm |
| Transmission | CVT | Manual |
| Dimension | Length 1,890 mm Width 686 mm Height 1,116 mm | 1986 mm x 822 mm x 1049 mm |
| Weight | Kerb Weight 113 kg | 143 kg |
| Wheelbase | 1,286 mm | 1370 mm |
| Price | PHP 119,900 | — |
| Color | [Matte Dim Gray Metallic] [Pearl Dark Ash Blue 2] [Candy Luster Red] | — |
| Tires | Front 100/80-14MC 48P (tubeless) Rear 90/80-14MC 43P (tubeless) | Front 100/80 R17, Rear 120/80 R17 |
| Front Suspension | — | Inverted Shock |
| Rear Suspension | — | Monoshock |
Honda AirBlade 160 vs Monarch Tempest 250: which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer, the choice between the Honda AirBlade 160 and the Monarch Tempest 250 depends on their primary use case. If you prioritize daily commuting in congested city traffic, the AirBlade 160 at PHP 119,900 offers a liquid-cooled, CVT automatic scooter that is lighter (113 kg), lower seat height (775 mm), and has front ABS for safer braking—ideal for stop-and-go. Its smaller 4.4L tank suffices for city rides, and it’s more affordable. However, its 157cc engine produces only 15.02 hp and 14.6 Nm, and the rear drum brake lacks ABS. In contrast, the Monarch Tempest 250, priced at PHP 135,000, is a manual sportbike with a larger 250cc air-cooled engine producing 20 hp and 19 Nm, and a massive 14L fuel tank for longer trips. It has inverted front forks and monoshock rear, but no ABS and a heavier 143 kg. The Tempest is better for highway cruising and spirited riding, but less practical for daily errands due to manual transmission and taller seat (800 mm). Ultimately, choose the AirBlade for cost-effective, easy city commuting with ABS; choose the Tempest for more power, range, and sporty performance on open roads.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper?
The Honda AirBlade 160 is cheaper at PHP 119,900 compared to the Monarch Tempest 250 at PHP 135,000.
Which is more powerful?
The Monarch Tempest 250 is more powerful, with 20 hp and 19 Nm, while the Honda AirBlade 160 has 15.02 hp and 14.6 Nm.
Which is better for daily commuting?
The Honda AirBlade 160 is better for daily commuting due to its automatic CVT, lighter weight (113 kg), lower seat height, and front ABS, making it easier to maneuver in traffic.
Which has ABS?
Only the Honda AirBlade 160 has ABS on the front brake; the Monarch Tempest 250 does not have ABS listed.