Honda NSC 110 Vision (2011–2020) Review: A Decade of Urban Agility

Introduction

The Honda NSC 110 Vision defined urban mobility for a decade, blending practicality, efficiency, and Honda’s signature reliability into a scooter that became a staple in cities across Asia and Europe. Designed for commuters who value simplicity without compromising on modern engineering, this scooter generation remains a compelling choice for riders navigating tight streets, congested traffic, and daily errands. After spending time with a well-maintained 2018 model, it’s clear why the Vision 110 earned its reputation as a workhorse of the 110cc class. Let’s dive into what makes this scooter tick—and why it still resonates with riders today.

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Design & Ergonomics: Form Follows Function

The NSC 110 Vision’s design philosophy screams “no-nonsense.” Its underbone steel frame, paired with clean, angular bodywork, gives it a utilitarian charm. Over the years, Honda offered color options like Pearl Jasmine White, Matte Galaxy Black Metallic, and vibrant reds/blues, ensuring riders could pick a finish that matched their personality.

The riding position is upright and relaxed, with a seat height of 750–770 mm (29.5–30.3 inches) accommodating shorter riders effortlessly. The floorboard provides ample space for groceries or a small backpack, while the 5.5-liter fuel tank (1.45 US gallons) sits neatly under the seat. Storage-wise, the underseat compartment fits a half-face helmet, and optional front baskets (common in Asian markets) add practicality.

Standout design elements include the 5-spoke cast aluminum wheels and the sleek, hexagonal headlight cluster that modernized the scooter’s look post-2016. While not a head-turner, the Vision 110 exudes a quiet confidence—a machine built for purpose, not pretension.

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Engine & Performance: Small Displacement, Big Efficiency

At its heart lies an air-cooled, 108cc single-cylinder engine producing 8.3–8.7 HP (6.1–6.4 kW) and 8.7–9.0 Nm (6.4–6.6 lb-ft) of torque. Paired with Honda’s PGM-FI fuel injection (introduced in later models), this engine is a masterclass in frugality. During my test ride, the throttle response felt crisp for a 110cc, with smooth acceleration up to its 83–88 km/h (51.6–54.7 mph) top speed—enough for city highways but clearly optimized for 40–60 km/h (25–37 mph) urban grids.

Fuel efficiency is where the Vision 110 shines. Honda claims 1.6 liters per 100 km (62.5 km/l or 147 mpg), and real-world usage comes close. A full tank costs pennies and lasts over 340 km (211 miles), making it ideal for daily commuters. The automatic V-Matic belt drive requires zero input—just twist and go—while the centrifugal clutch ensures smooth takeoffs even on inclines.

Cold starts were hassle-free thanks to the electric starter, though some earlier models retained a kickstarter for redundancy. The engine’s air cooling held up well in stop-and-go traffic, with no noticeable power drop even after an hour of riding.

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Handling & Ride Comfort: City Slicer

Weighing 102–104 kg (224.9–229 lbs) wet, the Vision 110 feels nimble. The 1255–1290 mm (49.4–50.8-inch) wheelbase strikes a balance between stability and agility, letting riders dart through traffic or U-turn on narrow streets with ease.

The suspension setup—telescopic forks upfront and a unit swingarm at the rear—absorbs potholes admirably. While the 70–80 mm (2.8–3.1 inches) of wheel travel won’t rival premium scooters, it’s sufficient for urban imperfections. The 14-inch front and rear wheels (80/90-14 and 90/90-14 tires) provide predictable grip, though upgrading to premium rubber (like Michelin City Grip) enhances wet-weather confidence.

Braking is handled by a front hydraulic disc and rear drum with Honda’s CBS (Combined Braking System), which proportionally distributes braking force. It’s not ABS, but the CBS prevents rear-wheel lockup during panic stops—a welcome safety net for new riders.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The 110cc commuter scooter segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Vision 110 holds up against rivals:

1. Yamaha Gear 125:
   Yamaha’s 125cc contender offers slightly more power and a sportier design. However, it lacks Honda’s PGM-FI system, resulting in lower fuel efficiency (~55 km/l vs. Honda’s 62.5 km/l). The Gear’s suspension is stiffer, trading comfort for cornering sharpness.

2. Suzuki Address 110:
   Suzuki’s answer matches the Vision’s fuel efficiency but feels less refined. The Address’s carbureted engine (pre-2020 models) struggles with throttle smoothness compared to Honda’s FI. Storage space also favors the Vision.

3. Honda Dio 110:
   A sibling rival, the Dio shares the Vision’s engine but targets younger riders with flashier styling. The Dio’s shorter wheelbase sacrifices stability for agility, making the Vision better suited for longer commutes.

Verdict: The Vision 110 isn’t the sportiest or most stylish, but its blend of efficiency, reliability, and practicality makes it a top choice for no-frills commuting.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your Vision 110 in Prime Shape

As a MOTOPARTS.store journalist, I’d be remiss not to highlight key maintenance tips—and the parts you’ll need to keep this scooter running flawlessly:

• Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-30 (700–800 mL). Honda recommends every 3,000 km (1,864 miles). Pair with a new oil filter (Honda part #15410-KPP-901) for optimal engine life.
• Belt & Drivetrain: The V-Matic belt should be inspected every 12,000 km (7,456 miles). Replace if cracked or worn. Consider upgrading to a high-performance belt for smoother acceleration.
• Brakes: Front brake pads wear faster due to CBS usage. Stock up on sintered pads for improved durability. Drum brake shoes last ~15,000 km (9,320 miles).
• Tires: OEM tires prioritize longevity over grip. Swap to grippier options like Pirelli Diablo Scooter for rainy climates.
• Spark Plugs: The NGK CPR8EA-9 (gap 0.8–0.9 mm) requires replacement every 8,000 km (4,970 miles). Keep a spare in your toolkit.
• Valve Adjustments: Check valve clearance every 4,000 km (2,485 miles)—0.12–0.16 mm intake / 0.16–0.18 mm exhaust (cold).

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Conclusion: Timeless Utility

The Honda NSC 110 Vision isn’t about thrills—it’s about getting you where you need to go, day after day, with minimal fuss. Its decade-long production run speaks volumes about its reliability, and its frugal running costs make it a wallet-friendly choice in an era of rising fuel prices. While newer scooters boast flashier tech, the Vision 110’s simplicity is its strength.

For owners looking to personalize or maintain their Vision 110, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance upgrades to OEM-spec replacement parts. Whether you’re chasing better grip, smoother shifts, or just keeping your trusty steed on the road, we’ve got your back.

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Specifications sheet

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