c is one of the quiet success stories of Honda’s two-wheeled line-up, having clocked up sales of over 140,000 units in Europe since its arrival in 2010. Its success is down to a formula Honda has had many years’ experience in perfecting: a strong, modern design that allows it to fit elegantly into a style-conscious urban lifestyle, coupled with compact dimensions that ensure it can plot a path through busy traffic – and be parked – with ease.
Also integral to the formula is an ‘X’ level of Personal Comfort (thus PCX) provided by the sit-in riding position, weather protection, underseat storage for a full-face helmet and all-round build quality. And, not to forget, outstanding value for money (both at purchase and throughout ownership) has always helped underpin the PCX’s popularity. In 2010, the PCX was the first two-wheeler in Europe to feature Idling Stop technology; two years later it became the first scooter in Europe to use Honda’s ultra-efficient enhanced Smart Power (eSP) engine. For 2016 it gained EURO4 compliance and, in 2018, received a major design update, a new chassis and more power for its engine.
It’s a scooter that’s always moved with the times and in 21YM leapt forward with a new engine and frame combination, increased convenience and comfort, plus a bold evolution of its avant-garde style – retaining its place close to the beating heart of European two-wheeled travel. For 23YM two suitably chic new colour choices add further to the PCX125’s visual appeal.
The PCX125 has a unique presence and is a rolling statement of difference. The bodywork also hides ample under seat storage and floor space; there’s also a USB Type-C charger in the glovebox. A ‘widescreen’ instrument display presents all the vital information and Honda’s Smart Key operates the ignition and seat. All lighting is LED. The enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve engine produces 9.2kW power, 11.8Nm torque and returns 47.6km/l (WMTC mode). It features Idling Stop technology and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) maintains rear wheel traction. A tubular steel frame is tough, lightweight and mounts 31mm telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks.
The 23YM PCX125 will be available in the following colour options:
Pearl Jupiter Gray **NEW**
Matt Suit Blue Metallic **NEW**
Pearl Jasmine White
Matt Galaxy Black Metallic
A consistent design signature of the PCX125 has always been the bodywork – with its strong character line and ‘block’ primary paint colour – flowing together as a whole, front to rear. The front fairing flares in its upper portion but elegantly draws in at the waist; alongside a blacked-out screen this produces improved wind protection without excess bulk. Bold and beautiful, no other scooter has such futuristic style. Full, premium LED lighting also sets the PCX125 apart from the crowd. The headlight features a signature running light with 5 narrow flash lines positioned in parallel. It’s matched to an X-shaped taillight using multi-optic technology to give an intense, 3D effect. The seat is contoured for both rider/pillion comfort and easy ground reach; seat height is set at 764mm but is very manageable with a ‘straddling’ height of 540mm.
The swooping lines also hide ample storage capacity under the seat. 30.4L is perfect for a full-face helmet, and more. There’s also a USB Type-C socket in the glovebox, ready to plug a smartphone straight into. Even the fuel filler cap cover features space to store the fuel cap during re-fuelling. Smart Key operation is also convenient. As well as controlling the main ignition switch knob and compartment locking it can also manage the (optional) 35L removable Smart top box. With the Smart Key in the rider’s pocket the box is unlocked, and automatically locks when the rider walks away. It can also be locked from the key.
A ‘widescreen’ central console instrument layout presents all information neatly and concisely, in an easy-to-read format. An inverted LCD displays the speed, while other information available includes odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, average fuel consumption and Idling Stop indicator. Wide, chrome handlebars are also a PCX signature. Mounted in traditional clamps (with newly optimised rubber density) they offer excellent leverage around town and are a neat retro touch. The rear grab rail provides the passenger with comfortable and supportive hand holds while on the move.
The PCX125’s enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC powerplant delivers 9.2kW @ 8,750rpm, with peak torque of 11.8Nm @ 6,500rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 53.5 x 55.5mm with compression ratio of 11.5:1. It accelerates smartly from a standing start or roll-on, and the PCX will cruise happily around 90km/h. V-max is 98km/h. And, thanks to the engine’s fuel efficiency of approximately 47.6km/l (WMTC mode), and 8.1L tank, range is approximately 385km between fill-ups.
Technology to boost rider confidence in wet conditions is Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) which works in the background to deftly manage rear wheel traction. A ‘T’ indicator flickers on the dash when HSTC is actively reducing wheelspin, and the system can be turned off completely. Honda’s eSP+ low-friction technologies are found throughout the engine; clever packaging of items like the oil pump (which is built into the crankcase) help to further ensure efficiency. A compact combustion chamber and PGM-FI fuel injection – with 28mm diameter throttle body, 2mm larger – optimises burning velocity and cooling performance.
An offset cylinder reduces friction caused by contact between piston and bore, efficiently transmitting combustion energy to the crankshaft. A ‘spiny’ cast-iron sleeve – with tiny surface extensions – keeps in check any distortion of the inner bore diameter. This design lowers tension in the piston ring, reducing friction. A new hydraulic cam chain tensioner further improves engine efficiencies by reducing internal vibrations and improving fuel economy.
Piston oil jets – as used by CRF450R competition MX machine – maintain consistent cooling. This allows ignition timing advances and prevents abnormal combustion, such as ‘knocking’. A hydraulic cam chain tensioner lifter inhibits chain vibration, controls noise and reduces friction.
A high-efficiency radiator – integrated into the exterior of the right-side crankcase – employs a small, light fan reducing frictional losses and lowering drag. Rolling resistance within the transmission unit is reduced by the use of three low-friction main bearings, all designed to deal with the loads they individually receive. An optimised clutch – and pulleys – complement the performance increase.
The electronically controlled, brushless ACG starter is an integrated component mounted directly on the end of the crankshaft, serving as starter motor and alternator. It spins the engine directly, eliminating any noise from gear engagement or meshing.
Idling Stop automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle when the scooter is stationary, and the brakes applied and re-starts it instantly the throttle grip is twisted. It’s seamless in use thanks to ACG and the swing-back system that returns the crank to its position before air intake, and a decompression mechanism that negates cranking resistance from compression. It has the functionality to ‘read’ the battery charge and turns itself off to avoid excessive drain.
The PCX125 uses duplex steel cradle frame designed to deliver the durability needed for the rigours of urban life, with around-town manoeuvrability, user-friendliness and relaxed riding position. Wheelbase is set at 1,315mm, with 26° 30’ rake and 80mm trail. Overall kerb weight is 130kg. Both wheels – 14-inch front and 13-inch rear – employ a design that complements the bodywork. Tyre sizes are sized 110/70-14 front and 130/70-13 rear.
The 31mm front forks feature 89mm axle travel, while the rear shock absorbers have 95mm; with springs weighted for a smooth ride on rough city streets. Stopping power is provided by the twin-piston front caliper and 220mm disc, matched to a 130mm rear drum brake; single-channel ABS operates on the front brake.
A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the PCX 125. The main accessories have been combined to form a practical pack for convenience. The City Pack is intended to enhance the practicality and comfort of the PCX125 without losing any style cues, as accessories are colour-matching to the motorcycle. The pack includes:
35L Smart Top Box
Windshield
Clear Knuckle guards
Heated Grips
Outdoor cover
