Honda SH150i (2013-2017) Review: The Urban Commuter’s Refined Companion

Introduction

The Honda SH150i, produced between 2013 and 2017, represents one of the most polished iterations of Honda’s urban mobility formula. Designed for riders who prioritize efficiency, reliability, and practicality, this scooter blends Italian-inspired styling (thanks to its European SH lineage) with Japanese engineering precision. After spending a week navigating city streets and suburban roads on a well-maintained 2015 model, it’s clear why this generation remains a favorite among commuters and casual riders alike. Let’s dive into what makes the SH150i stand out—and where it leaves room for customization.

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Design & Ergonomics

The SH150i’s design walks a fine line between utilitarian and stylish. Its underbone steel frame gives it a clean, minimalist profile, while the 16-inch alloy wheels (a rarity in the 150cc scooter class) add a touch of sophistication. The compact bodywork features subtle creases and a sloped front apron that channels airflow efficiently. Color options like Metallic Red and Metallic Black keep it looking fresh even in modern traffic.

At a 785 mm (30.9-inch) seat height, the SH150i accommodates riders of all sizes. The flat, wide seat offers ample room for two adults, though it’s firm enough for long rides to feel slightly fatiguing after an hour. The floorboard is spacious, allowing riders to adjust their footing easily, and the analog-digital instrument cluster provides clear readouts for speed, fuel, and odometer.

Storage is adequate but not exceptional—the under-seat compartment fits a full-face helmet for smaller sizes, while a hook on the front apron secures grocery bags. Many owners opt for aftermarket top cases (available through MOTOPARTS.store) to expand cargo capacity.

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Engine & Performance

Powering the SH150i is a 153cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with Honda’s PGM-FI fuel injection—a standout feature in this segment. The engine delivers 11 kW (15 PS) and feels remarkably smooth for a single-cylinder setup. Throttle response is crisp, with minimal vibration even at its 8,500 RPM redline.

Acceleration is linear rather than thrilling: 0–50 km/h (0–31 mph) takes about 5.5 seconds, which is sufficient for merging into urban traffic. Top speed hovers around 105 km/h (65 mph), making it viable for short highway stints, though wind blast becomes noticeable above 80 km/h (50 mph). The real star here is efficiency—the SH150i sips fuel at 2.58 L/100 km (91 mpg), translating to over 300 km (186 miles) from its 7.2-liter (1.9-gallon) tank.

The belt-driven automatic transmission requires zero input from the rider, making it ideal for stop-and-go commutes. Maintenance is straightforward: Honda recommends inspecting the belt every 12,000 km (7,456 miles), and replacements are hassle-free with MOTOPARTS.store’s OEM-compatible drive belts.

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Handling & Ride Quality

The SH150i’s 16-inch wheels and 33 mm telescopic front fork give it a stability advantage over smaller-wheeled rivals. It glides over potholes and uneven pavement with confidence, while the dual rear shocks (adjustable for preload) handle bumps admirably. At 137 kg (302 lbs), it’s nimble enough for tight U-turns yet planted at speed.

Braking performance is mixed. The 220 mm front disc with a two-piston caliper offers strong, progressive stopping power, but the rear drum brake feels underwhelming during aggressive stops. Upgrading to sintered brake pads (available in our store) improves bite without compromising longevity.

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Competition

In the 150cc scooter segment, the SH150i faces stiff rivals:

1. Vespa Primavera 150: More stylish and premium, but air-cooled and less fuel-efficient. The Vespa’s smaller 12-inch wheels also compromise stability.
2. Yamaha SMAX: Offers similar specs but trades the Honda’s refined suspension for sportier styling. Maintenance costs are higher.
3. Kymco People 150: A budget alternative with comparable features, though fit-and-finish and resale value lag behind Honda.
4. Piaggio Liberty 150: Focuses on lightweight agility but lacks the SH150i’s highway capability.

The Honda’s liquid cooling, fuel injection, and low-maintenance belt drive give it an edge for riders prioritizing longevity and hassle-free ownership.

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Maintenance

The SH150i is built to endure daily abuse, but adhering to service intervals ensures peak performance:

• Engine Oil: Use SAE 10W-30 API SG (900 ml with filter). Change every 4,000 km (2,485 miles).
• Coolant: Replace every 2 years using ethylene glycol-based fluid (950 ml capacity).
• Brake Fluid: Flush with DOT 4 annually to prevent moisture buildup.
• Tire Pressure: Maintain 1.75 bar (25 psi) front / 2.0–2.25 bar (29–33 psi) rear for optimal grip and wear.

Common upgrades include:
- High-performance spark plugs (NGK CPR7EA-9) for smoother cold starts.
- Upgraded brake pads to sharpen stopping power.
- LED lighting kits for improved visibility.

MOTOPARTS.store stocks all OEM-compatible parts, ensuring your SH150i stays reliable for years.

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Final Thoughts

The Honda SH150i (2013–2017) isn’t about raw excitement—it’s about mastering the mundane with grace. Its combination of frugality, comfort, and bulletproof engineering makes it a standout choice for urban commuters. While it lacks cutting-edge tech like ABS or smartphone connectivity, its simplicity is a virtue. For riders looking to personalize their SH150i, explore our catalog of performance upgrades, storage solutions, and aesthetic enhancements to make this scooter truly your own.

Whether you’re threading through traffic or embarking on a weekend adventure, the SH150i proves that practicality doesn’t have to be boring.

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Specifications sheet

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