Honda XR150L – 2025 Model
Updated 26/04/25
Since the slightly rocky launch of the Honda XR125 to the Vietnamese market in around 2012 and then the XR150L in 2015, the little Honda has gone from strength to strength. Initially, it was difficult to get parts and mechanics were reluctant to work on the new machine. However, it is now the most popular choice for many long distance riders, be that for the Ha Giang Loop or the Hanoi – HCMC one way rental route.
April 2025 sees the latest model Honda XR150L come out in Vietnam. This builds on the successes of the previous models and makes the bike even better although Honda could have gone a little further. Let’s see.
Contents
Basic Specifications - Honda XR150L 2025
The basic bike remains very true to the original. Why should it change all that much as it is extremely fit for purpose? It is lightweight, easy to drive, well-geared and easy to maintain. She will run forever on a tank and has a comfortable seat that will not have you crippled by the end of day 1, unlike some bikes.
Engine:
Type: Air-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke, OHC, 2 valves.
Displacement: Approximately 149cc.
Fuel System: Carburetor ( 22mm piston-valve type).
Transmission: 5-speed manual.
Starting System: Electric and kick starter.
Chassis and Suspension:
Frame Type: Steel cradle frame.
Front Suspension: Telescopic fork with approximately 180mm (7.1 inches) of travel.
Rear Suspension: Single shock absorber with spring preload adjustability, approximately 150mm (5.9 inches) of travel.
Brakes:
Front Brake: Single disc brake with a multi-piston caliper.
Rear Brake: Drum brake.
Tyres:
Front Tire: 90/90-19.
Rear Tire: 110/90-17.
Dimensions and Weight:
Fuel Capacity: 11.3 liters (around 2.8 gallons), including reserve.
Seat Height: 835mm (around 32.8 inches).
Wet Weight: 128 kg (around 282 lbs).
Other Notable Features (Standard):
Street-legal equipment (headlight, taillight, turn signals, mirrors).
Basic digital instrument cluster (speedometer, odometer, trip meter).
Comfortable seat for on and off-road use.
Rear luggage rack.
Rentabike Vietnam Improvements
Extended Rear Luggage Rack – to give more room to fit luggage on.
Handlebar stabiliser – to protect handlebars and provide a location to fit a camera.
Handlebar Risers – to make general driving and standing on the pegs more comfortable.
Phone Holder – for navigation purposes
Chunky Rear Tyre – for better traction in the mud.
Shortened Rear Mudflap – This prevents the mudflap and registration ‘tucking under’ and getting caught in the tyre or even ripped off.
Honda Improvements for 2025
This new model was introduced in Vietnam in April 2025 and there are several modifications that have made the bike better in many respects.
Front Wheel ABS
This is the most significant and also an excellent upgrade. It is a crucial one for safety on the diverse road conditions that we find in Vietnam. This will allow the rider to brake hard with confidence. However, the cables are a little exposed so I worry that they could get broken when off road.
Digital Dashboard
There is now a very attractive and modern digital dashboard that gives information such as: time of day // odometer // tripA / tripB // ABS operation // Neutral // Speed // Gear
The display is clear and easy to read and has a good amount of information. It looks attractive and adds a modern feel to the bike. However, it is not enough and it would be great to have fuel level. You still need to rely on the main and reserve tanks.
Improved Side Panels
The side panels are more reinforced and are firmer to grip with your legs. It is an excellent improvement and really does help the rider. This makes controlling the bike offroad and in slow maneuvers easier.
Modern Styling
To be honest, we do not really care oabout this a whole lot, but it is an improvement. The aesthetics of the side panels and of the bike in general are improved and she feels more like her larger brothers: the 250, 400 and 600 models.
The forks, swingarm and wheel hubs are blacked out and this creates a more aggressive ‘feel’ to the bike.
Implications of the Upgrades
Honestly, there is nothing negative to say about the upgrades. All of these improve the bike. When you consider the price point has only shifted a few hundred dollars, it sounds even better.
The only negative thing to say, as we have said, is Honda could have gone further.
The introduction of ABS is a significant step towards improving rider safety, making the XR150L a more appealing option for a wider range of riders. This potentially gives reassurance to riders that are new to offroad. You’ll notice that this is not available on the Yamaha WR155 or the Kawasaki KLX 230.
The digital instrument cluster provides a more contemporary feel and potentially more useful information for the rider. As noted, Honda could have gone further by adding a fuel gauge.
The shortened side panels and blacked-out components contribute to a refreshed look. After nearly a decade, this is overdue. The altered side panel design definitely improves rider ergonomics and greatly helps control of the bike.
These upgrades make the XR150L a very attractive option for entry level riders and at an excellent price point. However, the underlying lack of power when compared to the WR155 is yet to be overcome. This could be a bike that an improving rider quickly grows out of.
FAQ
How far can you get on a tank of fuel?
The tank is 12l and Honda rates the efficiency at 2.1l per 100km. You are unlikely to get this kind of mileage in the real world and we tell people that a full tank will take them well over 300km.
This is very conservative but is much more than we would recommend for daily driving. If you fill once a day, you will never run out and it is likely that you will only need to fill every 2 days.
Is it easy to get the bike repaired when on tour?
The Honda XR150l is similar to all other Honda bikes in that similar parts are used on other bikes. There are only a few parts that it might be wise to take with you. These are large size inner tubes, brake and clutch levers and cables, a gear shifter, and plenty of oil for the chain.
If our rental bikes have any issue whilst on tour, we ask that you call us and then we help you get to a decent mechanic and have the bike fixed. It can usually be done.
Important: We do not pay for burnt out clutches as this is due to either misuse or abuse.
How much does the Honda XR150l cost to purchase new?
Prices tend to fluctuate depending on supply and demand and it can be a long process to actually get a new bike as they are manufactured in China under license to Honda.
You can expect to pay around 75 – 79 Million VND for a new bike. Then you will need to pay for the number plate and the taxes, which are different in each city in Vietnam. If you estimate around 6 Million VND for this, you will get a total price of 85 Million.
Does the Honda XR150L get stolen often in Vietnam?
The Honda XR150L is not really on the target list for thieves in Vietnam. This is because the bike is somewhat ‘non-standard’ and, I guess, it is harder to sell off the bike or strip the parts. This makes it unattractive to thieves.
However, you still need to take care and park the bike safely with a security guard, or where your accommodation tells you is safe. Simply leaving this bike out on the street unattended is asking for trouble that you will most likely find.
Why is the Honda XR150L such a popular bike in Vietnam?
There are many reasons for this; it is quite cheap to purchase or rent, it is fuel efficient, it is capable of going where you want it to go, it is comfortable, it is easy to drive.
The Honda XR150L lacks the power of the WR155 or KLX 230, but that is its only real failing. It is more comfortable, has a larger fuel tank and is cheaper. It’s a winner.
Is the 2025 Honda XR150L really better?
All of these upgrades are welcome and useful. Together they make the bike better value for money and a more serious contender for entry level riders. ABS on the front wheel is welcome and could possibly prevent a few rookie mistakes of over application of the front brake. The side panels allow more control and the digital dash offers just enough information although more would be welcome.
In our opinion, the Honda XR150L remains the most suitable bike for the large majority of road trips and riders in Vietnam. It will handle 90% of what Vietnam can throw at it and, we believe, 100% of what the average renter/rider will put it through.
