What is an underbone motorcycle?. Well according to my research, an underbone is a small motorcycle built on a frame consisting mostly of one large diameter tubular component. The stylistic difference between a motorcycle and an underbone is considerable and they are sometimes known as "step-throughs" or even marketed as scooters in the West. The fuel tank position and the open-frame design, along with the splash guards often fitted, give the underbone an appearance similar to a scooter, however the wheels, engine position, and power transmission are based on the design of conventional motorcycles. Underbone motorcycles are very common here in the Philippines because of the following reasons:
a. They cost less than the average motorcycles
b. They are fuel efficient.
c. They are easy to handle.
d. Can easily slip unto traffic.
e. They have low maintenance.
f. They could be easily customized.
And so on and so forth. And the numbers of underbones grew rampant every year here in the Philippines mostly in Mindanao. About an estimated 90% of vehicular accidents are caused by underbones and about 80% of that accidents yields to fatality. And about 50% of underbone motorists are not even or don't even have drivers' licences. Enough about the criticisms about the underbone motorcycles. I may get myself in trouble if I continue.
Now, let's get to the main topic shall we? Of all the underbone motorcycles that roars on the street of Philippines, there could only be one fastest of them all.
NOTE: Underbone motorcycles that will be rated here will be standards in terms of the motorcycles' body and engines. Modified bikes and those that are not available on the market are not going to be tackled or included in the countdown.
TOP 10 UNDERBONE MOTORCYCLES (PHILIPPINES)
1. Suzuki Raider R150: also referred to as "The Underbone King" in the 4-stroke category, is the fastest underbone motorcycle in the Philippines with a recorded top speed of 135-145 km/hr. It was first introduced in the Philippines in the year 2004 and was assembled in Thailand from 2002-2007. The first generation Raider 150 were the great batch of Raider 150 ever assembled according to second generation (2007-present) Raider owners. Explanation of this was second generation Raider 150 are assembled here in the Philippines that lead to speculations of exchanging of cheap parts of the motorcycles. And unanimous second generation Raider 150 owners said that the old ones were a lot better in terms of performance. But it's still the number one underbone motorcycle here in the Philippines ever since it's debut in 2004.
First generation Raider 150 (2002-2007) featured below.
Second generation Raider 150 (2007-present) featured below.
Specifications:
Engine type: Air - Oil Cooled, DOHC 4-Valve, 4-Stroke
Transmission: 6 speed 1 down 5 up
Bore x stroke: 62.0 × 48.8 mm
Displacement: 147.3cc
Compression ratio: 10.2:1
Maximum horsepower: 16.5hp @ 9500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 12.76 N*m @ 8500 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 4.9 Liters
Fuel consumption: 35-40 km/Liters
Chassis: Twin-Spar underbone
Suspension (front): Telescopic coil spring, oil-damped fork x 2
Suspension (rear): Mono shock, coil spring, oil-damped with preload adjustments
Brakes (front): Disc break with twin piston caliper
Brakes (rear): Disc break with twin piston caliper
Overall length: 1940 mm
Overall height: 652 mm
Overall width: 941 mm
Top Speed: 135-145 km/hr
2. Yamaha Sniper 135: The only rival of Raider R150 here in the Philippines, the Yamaha Sniper is powered by a liquid cooled 134.4cc 4-stroke engine. It has even it's R Edition that is endorsed by the famous racing legend, Valentino Rossi. The Yamaha is not that stylish like the raider but it is more fuel efficient than the Raider R150. It is rare to see it here in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, maybe because it's price is close to Raider R150. People will prefer 150 rather than 135. Furthermore, the Yamaha Sniper is a great underbone motorcycle. It can match up the Raider R150. Theres an event in Cebu that I heard about. They race Raiders and Snipers. They held it every year and Yamaha Sniper is really a great competitor against the 150cc class, considering it's just 135cc.
Specifications:
Engine Type: Liquid Cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve
Transmission: Constant Mesh 4-speed
Bore x Stroke: 54.0 mm x 58.7 mm
Displacement: 134.4 cc
Compression Ratio: 10.9:1
Maximum Horsepower: 8.45 kW @ 8500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 11.65 N*m @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.0L
Brakes(front): Hydraulic Single Disc Brake
Brakes(rear): Drum Break (leading, trailing)
Overall Length: 1945 mm
Overall Height: 1065 mm
Overall Width: 705 mm
Top Speed: 130-135 km/hr
3. Yamaha Sniper 135 MX: Yamaha thought the previous Sniper wasn't good enough so they revamped it with the all new Yamaha Sniper MX. Now equipped with a 5 speed gear box, a more aggressive look and a whole lot of plastics. It falls behind it's previous predecessor though because of it's added weight. Yes, it has a 5 speed now but still lag because of the added weight. We tested it personally with our friend's MX. We thought it could now catch up a bit with the top underbone Raider 150 but falls behind. Flat out it was left out in the Raider's wake, But none the less, the MX has more aggressive looks and design than the previous Sniper and much better numbers but the problem is the added weight and not to mention the added price.
4. Yamaha Vega Force 110: "Can you feel the force" is what this underbone had been asking us and yes we feel it, a bit. It's a another entry from Yamaha, the Vega Force 110, a very stylish and appealing underbone. The overall design flow is excellent and the engine has a good equal power. Less power therefore less fuel consumption making it economical which is great given the petrol hike over the years. Bottomline, the Yamaha Vega Force is a great and appealing underbone that's bang for the buck and economical. And just like Yoda said, "The force is strong."
5. Honda XRM 125: Probably the most versatile underbone known and the most car-napped motorcycle too. This underbone is as tough as nails and can be used almost in any harsh terrain in the country. Good length for space and good ground clearance as well. The engine of the new generation XRM has some contreversy though. Some claims the engine is now china made and made put of plastics (not sure about that). And rumors has it that pawnshops reject XRMs due to engine controversy. But the XRM does not lack on power though. Good, equal power and can handle rough terrain. A versatile and durable motorcycle used in farmlands and wherever Pinoys feel o use and take it. Oh, did I mention that this motorcycle is hot on the eyes of bastards that uses it's engine on boats? Such irony.
SPECIFICATIONS
6. Suzuki Shogun Pro 125: It's the Suzuki again with it's Shogun Pro 125. A clutched version of the Shogun R125, the Shogun Pro performs with precision and with just the right power you're looking for. With just 25cc less than the Raider R150, the Shogun Pro delivers a good acceleration performance, more fuel efficiency and low exhaust emission. And with it's new design that is hardcore and much more sporty features. It will not be just another underbone in the street.
Specifications:
Engine Type: 4-stroke, 1-Cylinder, Air-Cooled SOHC, 2-valve
Transmission: Mechanical, 4-speed Manual Clutch
Bore x Stroke: 53.5 mm x 55.2 mm
Displacement: 124 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
Maximum Horsepower: 7.4 kW @ 8000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 9.82 N*m @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.3L
Brakes(front): Disc Brake
Brakes(rear): Disc Brake
Overall Length: 1900 mm
Overall Width: 715 mm
Overall Height: 1070 mm
Top Speed: 115-120 km/hr
7. Honda Wave 125: Honda will not be outdone when it comes in the motorcycle world. Featuring their most powerful underbone, the Honda Wave 125. It is the best choice when it comes to fuel efficiency averaging 80.8 km to the liters, thats why it is so common here in the Philippines. It also comes with the Repsol, Honda's racing partner, inspired look. It may not be as powerful like the other underbones featured above, the Wave 125 cost less and has great fuel efficiency.
Repsol Inspired Honda Wave 125
Specifications:
Engine Type: 4-stroke, Air cooled, OHC
Transmission: Rotary Gear 4 Level
Bore x Stroke: 52.4 mm x 57.9 mm
Displacement: 124.9 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.3:1
Maximum Horsepower: 9.3 PS @ 7,500 rpm (carburetor type)
9.18 PS @ 7.500 rpm (fuel injection type)
Maximum Torque: 1.03 kgf.m @ 4,000 rpm (carburetor type)
0.99 kgf.m /5.000 rpm (125 cc fuel injection type)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.7L
Brakes(front): Hydraulic Disc
Brakes(rear): Mechanical (leading, trailing)
Overall Length: 1870 mm
Overall Width: 715 mm
Overall Height: 1050 mm
Top Speed: 100-120 km/hr
8. Kawasaki Fury 125: Kawasaki's sharp, aggressive underbone is our number 8. Low ride like the Raider 150 but doesn't have that performance you expect from it's aggressive posture. The Fury is heavy on the front due to the fuel tank mounted in front. Handling and cornering is stiff and power lags as well. And not to mention the weird alien like round head of it is just ugly for that sharp body. None the less it's still an underbone that many would consider due to it's sporty sharp appeal.
Specs:
Engine Type: 4 stroke SOHC 2 valve
Bore x Stroke: 58.0mm x 50.6mm
Cylinder: Single Cylinder
Displacement: 124.5cc
Compression Ratio: 9.5:
Maximum Power: 6.6 KW @ 8000 RPM
Maximum Horsepower: 9 HP @ 8000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 8.6 Nm @ 6500 RPM
Carburator: Keihin PB 18
Final Drive Ratio: 8.893 @ top gear
Reduction Ratio: 2,571
Chain Drive: 36/14
Transmission: 4 Speed Rotary Centrifugal, Wet Multi Disc
Ignition: CDI
Spark Plug: NGK C6HSA / ND U20FS-U
9. Suzuki Raider J Pro 125: If you can't afford the R150 then another alternative is the smaller Raider, the Raider J Pro 125. Not as much powerful and hyper underbone like it's brother the R150, the Raider J Pro comes with good handling and much better fuel consumption due to it's smaller engine. It's low and has that sporty essence from the 150R. Power is equally good and the clutch deviates it from other automatic underbones. Open up the pipe and buy a local R150 head and you will be mistaken as a Raider R150.
10. Honda Wave 100R: The most common underbone in the streets of Philippines, the Honda Wave 100R. Excellent in fuel consumption fitted with a good and equally powered engine, the 100R is surely an everyday rider's choice.
2. Yamaha Sniper 135: The only rival of Raider R150 here in the Philippines, the Yamaha Sniper is powered by a liquid cooled 134.4cc 4-stroke engine. It has even it's R Edition that is endorsed by the famous racing legend, Valentino Rossi. The Yamaha is not that stylish like the raider but it is more fuel efficient than the Raider R150. It is rare to see it here in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, maybe because it's price is close to Raider R150. People will prefer 150 rather than 135. Furthermore, the Yamaha Sniper is a great underbone motorcycle. It can match up the Raider R150. Theres an event in Cebu that I heard about. They race Raiders and Snipers. They held it every year and Yamaha Sniper is really a great competitor against the 150cc class, considering it's just 135cc.
Specifications:
Engine Type: Liquid Cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve
Transmission: Constant Mesh 4-speed
Bore x Stroke: 54.0 mm x 58.7 mm
Displacement: 134.4 cc
Compression Ratio: 10.9:1
Maximum Horsepower: 8.45 kW @ 8500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 11.65 N*m @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.0L
Brakes(front): Hydraulic Single Disc Brake
Brakes(rear): Drum Break (leading, trailing)
Overall Length: 1945 mm
Overall Height: 1065 mm
Overall Width: 705 mm
Top Speed: 130-135 km/hr
3. Yamaha Sniper 135 MX: Yamaha thought the previous Sniper wasn't good enough so they revamped it with the all new Yamaha Sniper MX. Now equipped with a 5 speed gear box, a more aggressive look and a whole lot of plastics. It falls behind it's previous predecessor though because of it's added weight. Yes, it has a 5 speed now but still lag because of the added weight. We tested it personally with our friend's MX. We thought it could now catch up a bit with the top underbone Raider 150 but falls behind. Flat out it was left out in the Raider's wake, But none the less, the MX has more aggressive looks and design than the previous Sniper and much better numbers but the problem is the added weight and not to mention the added price.
4. Yamaha Vega Force 110: "Can you feel the force" is what this underbone had been asking us and yes we feel it, a bit. It's a another entry from Yamaha, the Vega Force 110, a very stylish and appealing underbone. The overall design flow is excellent and the engine has a good equal power. Less power therefore less fuel consumption making it economical which is great given the petrol hike over the years. Bottomline, the Yamaha Vega Force is a great and appealing underbone that's bang for the buck and economical. And just like Yoda said, "The force is strong."
・SPECIFICATIONS
| Dimension & Weight | |
|---|---|
| Overall length x width x height | 1,930mm x 680mm x 1,065mm |
| Seat height | 765mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,235mm |
| Minimum ground clearance | 150mm |
| Weight | 102kg |
| Engine Performance | |
| Engine type | Air-cooled 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve |
| Cylinder arrangement | Single cylinder |
| Displacement | 113.7cm3 |
| Bore & stroke | 50.0mm x 57.9mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.3 : 1 |
| Maximum horse power | 6.0kW (7500r/min) |
| Maximum torque | 8.3 N.m (4500r/min) |
| Starting system type | Electric starter and kickstarter |
| Lubrication system | Wet sump |
| Transmission oil volume | 1.0 liters |
| Fuel | |
| Fuel tank capacity | 4.2 liters |
| Carburetor type | VM17 |
| Electrical | |
| Ignition system type | C.D.I. |
5. Honda XRM 125: Probably the most versatile underbone known and the most car-napped motorcycle too. This underbone is as tough as nails and can be used almost in any harsh terrain in the country. Good length for space and good ground clearance as well. The engine of the new generation XRM has some contreversy though. Some claims the engine is now china made and made put of plastics (not sure about that). And rumors has it that pawnshops reject XRMs due to engine controversy. But the XRM does not lack on power though. Good, equal power and can handle rough terrain. A versatile and durable motorcycle used in farmlands and wherever Pinoys feel o use and take it. Oh, did I mention that this motorcycle is hot on the eyes of bastards that uses it's engine on boats? Such irony.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Engine Type4 - Stroke OHC Air Cooled
- Displacement124.8 cc
- Bore & Stroke52.4 mm x 57.9 mm
- StarterElectric / Kick
- Ignition SystemDC-CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
- Transmission TypeSemi-automatic
- Gear System4 - Speed Rotary Type
- Suspension (Front)Telescopic Fork
- Suspension (Rear)Twin
- Brake System (Front)Hydraulic Ventilated Disk
- Brake System (Rear)Mechanical Leading Trailing
- Combination Brake SystemN/A
- Tires Size (Front)2.50 - 17 M/C 33L
- Tires Size (Rear)2.50 - 17 M/C 38L
- Wheels TypeSpoke
- Over-all Dimensions (LxWxH)1,896mm x 800mm x 1,067mm
- Wheelbase Dimensions1,239 mm
- Dry Weight99 Kg
- Seat Height776 mm
- Ground Clearance136 mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity3.8 Liters
- FuelUnleaded Gasoline
- Fuel SystemCarburetor
- Engine Oil Capacity0.9 Liters
- Automatic Headlight On (AHO)Equipped
- Parking BrakeN/A
- Key LockN/A
- Side Stand SwitchN/A
- Maximum Horse Power [kW (PS)]6.9 (9.4) @ 7,500 rpm
- Maximum Torque (N.m)10.4 @ 5,000 rpm
6. Suzuki Shogun Pro 125: It's the Suzuki again with it's Shogun Pro 125. A clutched version of the Shogun R125, the Shogun Pro performs with precision and with just the right power you're looking for. With just 25cc less than the Raider R150, the Shogun Pro delivers a good acceleration performance, more fuel efficiency and low exhaust emission. And with it's new design that is hardcore and much more sporty features. It will not be just another underbone in the street.
Specifications:
Engine Type: 4-stroke, 1-Cylinder, Air-Cooled SOHC, 2-valve
Transmission: Mechanical, 4-speed Manual Clutch
Bore x Stroke: 53.5 mm x 55.2 mm
Displacement: 124 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
Maximum Horsepower: 7.4 kW @ 8000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 9.82 N*m @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.3L
Brakes(front): Disc Brake
Brakes(rear): Disc Brake
Overall Length: 1900 mm
Overall Width: 715 mm
Overall Height: 1070 mm
Top Speed: 115-120 km/hr
7. Honda Wave 125: Honda will not be outdone when it comes in the motorcycle world. Featuring their most powerful underbone, the Honda Wave 125. It is the best choice when it comes to fuel efficiency averaging 80.8 km to the liters, thats why it is so common here in the Philippines. It also comes with the Repsol, Honda's racing partner, inspired look. It may not be as powerful like the other underbones featured above, the Wave 125 cost less and has great fuel efficiency.
Repsol Inspired Honda Wave 125
Specifications:
Engine Type: 4-stroke, Air cooled, OHC
Transmission: Rotary Gear 4 Level
Bore x Stroke: 52.4 mm x 57.9 mm
Displacement: 124.9 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.3:1
Maximum Horsepower: 9.3 PS @ 7,500 rpm (carburetor type)
9.18 PS @ 7.500 rpm (fuel injection type)
Maximum Torque: 1.03 kgf.m @ 4,000 rpm (carburetor type)
0.99 kgf.m /5.000 rpm (125 cc fuel injection type)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.7L
Brakes(front): Hydraulic Disc
Brakes(rear): Mechanical (leading, trailing)
Overall Length: 1870 mm
Overall Width: 715 mm
Overall Height: 1050 mm
Top Speed: 100-120 km/hr
8. Kawasaki Fury 125: Kawasaki's sharp, aggressive underbone is our number 8. Low ride like the Raider 150 but doesn't have that performance you expect from it's aggressive posture. The Fury is heavy on the front due to the fuel tank mounted in front. Handling and cornering is stiff and power lags as well. And not to mention the weird alien like round head of it is just ugly for that sharp body. None the less it's still an underbone that many would consider due to it's sporty sharp appeal.
Specs:
Engine Type: 4 stroke SOHC 2 valve
Bore x Stroke: 58.0mm x 50.6mm
Cylinder: Single Cylinder
Displacement: 124.5cc
Compression Ratio: 9.5:
Maximum Power: 6.6 KW @ 8000 RPM
Maximum Horsepower: 9 HP @ 8000 RPM
Maximum Torque: 8.6 Nm @ 6500 RPM
Carburator: Keihin PB 18
Final Drive Ratio: 8.893 @ top gear
Reduction Ratio: 2,571
Chain Drive: 36/14
Transmission: 4 Speed Rotary Centrifugal, Wet Multi Disc
Ignition: CDI
Spark Plug: NGK C6HSA / ND U20FS-U
ENGINE TYPE
|
SOHC, 4 STROKE
|
|
BORE X STROKE
|
53.5 mm X 48.8 mm
|
|
DISPLACEMENT
|
109.7 cc
|
|
COMPRESSION RATIO
|
9.5:1
|
|
CARBURETOR
|
VM 17
|
|
IGNITION
|
CDI (DIGITAL)
|
|
STARTING
|
ELECTRIC AND KICK
|
|
LUBRICATION
|
WET SUMP
|
|
TRANSMISSION
|
CLUTCH
|
MULTI LAYER
|
GEAR
|
4-SPEED(1 - DOWN 3 - UP)
|
|
SUSPENSION
|
FRONT
|
TELESCOPIC, COIL SPRING, OIL DAMPED
|
REAR
|
SWING-ARM TYPE, OIL DAMPED
|
|
TIRES
|
FRONT
|
70/90 - 17 - M/C 38P
|
REAR
|
80/90 - 17 - M/C 44P
|
|
BRAKES/SIZES
|
FRONT
|
DISC
|
REAR
|
DRUM
|
|
FUEL CAPACITY
|
4.5L
|
|
OVERALL LENGTH
|
1,925 mm
|
|
OVERALL WIDTH
|
675 mm
|
|
OVERALL HEIGHT
|
1,000 mm
|
|
WHEEL BASE
|
1220 mm
|
|
GROUND CLEARANCE
|
140 mm
|
|
BATTERY
|
12V 5Ah/10HR
|
|
DRY WEIGHT
|
92.5 kg
|
10. Honda Wave 100R: The most common underbone in the streets of Philippines, the Honda Wave 100R. Excellent in fuel consumption fitted with a good and equally powered engine, the 100R is surely an everyday rider's choice.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Engine Type4 - Stroke OHC Air Cooled
- Displacement97.1 cc
- Bore & Stroke50.0 mm x 49.5 mm
- StarterElectric / Kick
- Ignition SystemAC-CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
- Transmission TypeSemi-automatic
- Gear System4 - Speed Rotary Type
- Suspension (Front)Telescopic Fork
- Suspension (Rear)Twin
- Brake System (Front)Hydraulic Ventilated Disk
- Brake System (Rear)Mechanical Leading Trailing
- Combination Brake SystemN/A
- Tires Size (Front)2.25 - 17 M/C 33L
- Tires Size (Rear)2.50 - 17 M/C 38L
- Wheels TypeSpoke
- Over-all Dimensions (LxWxH)1,898mm x 705mm x 1,057mm
- Wheelbase Dimensions1,234 mm
- Dry Weight91.5 Kg
- Seat Height751 mm
- Ground Clearance133 mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity3.7 Liters
- FuelUnleaded Gasoline
- Fuel SystemCarburetor
- Engine Oil Capacity0.9 Liters
- Automatic Headlight On (AHO)Equipped
- Parking BrakeN/A
- Key LockN/A
- Side Stand SwitchN/A
- Maximum Horse Power [kW (PS)]5.36 (7.3) @ 8,000 rpm
- Maximum Torque (N.m)7.34 @ 5,500 rpm