The PCX is powered by a liquid-cooled 125cc single-cylinder engine, landing in Honda’s line-up between the China-built Elite 110 and the Italian-built SH150i. The PCX is the first import coming from Honda’s newly constructed Thailand plant.
Being a ‘world’ model – which means the unit’s emission and efficiency standards and specs conform to many markets at once – some of the special cool euro-styled stuff we often lose for USA-bound versions are included, such as a centerstand (as well as a sidestand) to serve varying opinions on the parking matter. Otherwise, there’s the global emission standards met via electronic fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter.
Small yet feature-packed, the PCX sports the ‘twist-n-go’ Honda V-Matic drive system (belt-converter automatic transmission), sparing the rider of any shifting or clutching needs. The undersquare engine and two-valve cylinder head provide decent levels of torque for quick getaways.
Honda's Middleweight Scooter Lineup
Model 2010 Elite 110 2011 PCX 125 2010 SH150i
CC engine 108 125 153
Wheelbase (inches) 50.2 51.4 53.4
Wheel Size(s) (Fr/R) 12/10 14 16
Saddle height (inches) 29.1 29.9 30.9
Curb Weight (pounds) 254 280 302
MPG (Honda Claims) 100+ 110
MSRP (USD) $2,999 $3,299 $4,499
As you can see from the accompanying table, the new 125 falls mid-pack on specs and cost across the board. The PCX is slightly larger in wheelbase (51.4 inches compared to the Elite 110’s 50.2 inches) and saddle height (29.9 inches to 29.1, respectively), the PCX is sure to be a hit with their target market – youth and new riders.
The PCX has longer suspension travel compared to the 110, so the new model should offer a more forgiving ride, if even a little. The PCX's Unit rear swingarm is suspended by a single shock with 2.9 inches of travel while the 31mm hydraulic front fork has 3.5-inches; neither is adjustable.
Also helping smooth the PCX’s path are its larger 14-inch wheels (which, by the way, look really light with their thin-spoke design –Ed.). An IRC 90/90-14 leads the way, followed by a 10mm-wider rear. The PCX has a fully fueled curb weight of 280 pounds.
Light and economical, the PCX is sure to be a hit with the targeted college youth crowd. And the fuel-injected single-overhead-cam engine will make the miles come even easier, topping out at about 50 miles per hour.
So far this year, a custom-painted PCX has been on display to graduating classes at Disneyland’s grad days and getting attention. Further attracting the salary-challenged buyers in their natural environment, the PCX will be touring the country this summer along with the
Honda Civic Tour, a concert series now in its ninth year and headlining with Tennessee-born rock band Paramore. Watch for television commercials and concert promos.
