One of the most stylish and practical scooters on the road, Honda's PCX offers an easy, comfortable way to move through city streets and beyond. Its efficient engine, automatic transmission and Honda Selectable Torque Control deliver smooth, confidence-inspiring performance, while conveniences like generous under-seat storage, LED lighting and a USB-C charging port simplify everyday commuting. Blending modern capability with premium touches, the PCX continues to set the standard for dependable, affordable urban mobility.
HISTORY
Since it was introduced abroad in 2009, the PCX125 (as it was called then) has always been about delivering a high-quality, relaxing scooter experience. With a 2009 switch to the fuel-sipping eSP (Enhanced Smart Power) engine, the model grew to a 149cc displacement, and LED lighting came five years later. The PCX150 was first offered to U.S. customers in 2015, and a new double-underbone frame structure offered an improved ride starting in 2018. A 2021 upgrade included a boost in displacement to 157cc, and the model was renamed as the PCX.
DESIGN / STYLING
The PCX is the standard-setter for scooter styling, with a modern look to go with its unmatched performance. Brilliant LED technology is used for all lighting. The headlights are positioned in a horizontal row for both low and high beams, creating a line that flows to the back of the machine. The taillight design has a three-dimensional effect and incorporates the “X” shape that distinguishes the PCX.
The meter is wide and has a high-visibility LCD display in the center, displaying a range of easily readable information. A fuel-consumption readout, clock, speedometer, odometer, trip meter and fuel gauge are all included, as are a low-battery voltage-warning light and V-belt replacement-time indicator. The meter shape matches the scooter design's relaxed image, and the three-dimensional bezel structure looks stylish even when the meter is not lit.
The PCX has a distinctive chrome handlebar, and a rubber-mounted handlebar holder minimizes vibration for hand comfort. The clamp cover has a square shape to match the vehicle design.
A handy under-seat storage compartment has a volume of 30 liters (plenty to store a full-face helmet), and a separate front storage compartment is easily accessible from the seated position. This 1.7-liter compartment includes a USB-C socket for charging electronic devices like smart phones, and there's sufficient space to store a drink bottle. The underside of the fuel-tank door incorporates a convenient holder in which the fuel cap can be placed during refueling.
The footrest area provides a riding position that is adaptable to riders of differing body sizes. The engine cover matches the scooter's design lines.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
The PCX's engine is well-suited for around-town commutes, but its over-150cc displacement means it is also freeway-capable. Despite offering good power, this scooter is also known for its incredible fuel efficiency. In addition, the PCX has Honda Selectable Torque Control—technology typically reserved for high-performance models.
The oversquare bore-and-stroke figures (60.0 and 55.5mm, respectively, for a 156.9cc displacement) minimize sliding friction for enhanced power. Several friction-minimizing technologies maximize engine efficiency. For example, a hydraulic lifter operates the cam-chain-tensioner so that the tensioner reduces chain vibration and mechanical noise, while also improving fuel efficiency. Additional friction-reducing features include a roller-rocker arm, an offset cylinder, a spiny cylinder sleeve and a double-cog belt.
The crankshaft is rigid and uses a roller bearing, minimizing flex generated by inertial force and high-rpm combustion energy. The result is low noise and reduced vibration. Piston-cooling oil jets—technology used in high-performance models like the CRF450R motocrosser—are utilized as well. Engine oil is sprayed on the underside of the piston, aiding cooling and preventing knocking while also enabling ignition-timing advance for enhanced power output.
The engine has a four-valve layout, enhancing intake and exhaust efficiency. The intake system has a high-capacity 4.9-liter air cleaner, and the throttle-body diameter is 28mm for maximum efficiency. The exhaust system features a catalyzer positioned to clean exhaust gases, allowing good power while protecting the environment.
Honda Selectable Torque Control optimizes safety in situations with limited traction. The system monitors wheel speed and throttle opening and, when slip is detected, intervenes by limiting engine torque. An indicator on the meter informs the rider that HSTC is being employed. The system can be turned off if desired.
The clutch shape and transmission-shaft size optimize the clutch's vibration characteristics for smooth acceleration from stops. The low-friction Honda V-Matic automatic transmission provides smooth, predictable acceleration while also bolstering fuel efficiency. The pulley diameter and shape are optimized to minimize friction and noise.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
Hidden beneath the PCX's styling is a modern chassis that was developed with a focus on minimizing weight, optimizing handling and ensuring the comfort for which this scooter is known. A simple frame structure delivers a comfortable ride and good cornering performance by optimally balancing weight minimization and chassis rigidity. Using CAE analysis, engineers optimized material selection, pipe diameters, material thickness and joint locations, thus minimizing weight and enhancing vehicle handling and maneuverability. By minimizing weights of the components that are located far from the vehicle's core, engineers further optimized handling by centralizing mass. The large, 2.1-gallon fuel tank is located under the floorboard, contributing to a low center of gravity and enhanced handling traits.
A 31mm telescopic fork offers 3.9 inches of travel, while the twin rear shock absorbers have 3.7 inches of wheel travel. Together, the suspension components deliver a comfortable ride on rough roads.
Each of the aluminum wheels (14-inch front, 13-inch rear) has five Y-shaped spokes for optimum rigidity balance, contributing to a safe, comfortable, smooth ride. The tires have a wide profile—110/70-14 front, 130/70-13 rear—and the considerable volume contributes to good linear handling performance and a comfortable ride. A powerful hydraulic brake with a 220mm disc is featured at the front, and it links to a 130mm mechanical rear drum; one-channel ABS further adds to the controlled stopping performance.
The seat is comfortable for riding solo or two-up, and the rear grab rail's shape and thickness enhance passenger hand grip.
Honda ACCESSORIES
A selection of Honda Accessories is ready to customize the PCX, including a Tall Windscreen, Rear Trunk, Rear Carrier and Trunk Mount Kit, and a One Key Inner Cylinder.
Final accessory list subject to change without notice.
