Honda PCX: Is it worth your money?

The herald of the small capacity maxi scooter segment – the Honda PCX 150 – is the most expensive offering from the brand in the country. At just a smidge below RM 11000, The Honda PCX price puts it above all its competitors. It competes against the much cheaper Yamaha NMAX and the Sym Jet 14 both of which do not even touch the RM 9000 mark. With such a high price tag, the PCX specifications have to be really quite special to justify it. Here then is a look at all the features that the PCX 150 contains in its svelte frame.

Gorgeous modern design styling

The PCX 150 has recently undergone a redesign and the end result has to be one of the best executions of the small capacity maxi scooter format. The previous design with its well-proportioned dimensions, high spine and stepped seat are still there. Yet small cosmetic upgrades have made it look much beautiful.

The front with its dual LED headlights, sharp indicators and tall blackened windshield is simply stunning. The curves extending from the front fascia to the entirety of the scooter give it a svelte appearance. The PCX 150 color options –Euphoria Red metallic, Pearl Metalloid White and radiate Grey Metallic –  very well go with its design. Then there are the 14” alloy wheels and new grab handle that make it undeniably the best-looking maxi-scooter in the market.

Refined capable engine

The Honda PCX 150 engine is a 149 cc 2 valve SOHC unit that produces 12.6 PS at 8500 rpm and 13 Nm at 5500 rpm. The engine is water cooled and fuel injected, it uses a dry centrifugal clutch with a V Matic transmission. Honda’s eSP or enhanced smart power reduces friction and enhances output efficiency, durability and fuel consumption while reducing noise levels. The PCX 150 can deliver a mileage figure of 44 kmpl which with its 8-litre fuel tank can last for a long time.

Idling stop system

Honda gives the PCX a switchable Idling Stop Start System. This automatically turns off the engine when it has been idling for some time to minimize fuel consumption. Restarting again is as simple as twisting the throttle. Being switchable, it can also be turned off from the switch on the handlebar if the riser finds the system too annoying.

Modern instrument panel

The PCX 150 gets brand new and classy digital instrumentation. The illuminated blue screen LCD panel displays fuel level, speed, clock and distance travelled in an easy glance display.

Charging outlet

The PCX 150 whooping apron hides a pleasant surprise in the form of a console box that stores a 12 V power outlet. This can be used to charge devices like your smartphone while on the go. The box can also be closed shut keeping your device secure as it charges.

Massive underseat storage

Maxi scooters are known for having big cargo spaces. But the Honda takes the cake by having the capacity of 25-litre under its seat. This is enough to store a full face helmet and then some. The seat stopper keeps the seat from falling back on you while you are filling up space.

Smart key system

The seat can be opened without moving your hand from the handlebars. Thanks to Honda’s smart key system. This illuminated dial allows the rider to operate the seat, the spine mounted fuel cap, handlebar lock, and the ignition without inserting the key. The key itself comes with an immobilizer, an alarm and an answer back system.

Wide tires

The PCX 150 runs on 14” wheels with wide 100/80 front and 120/70 rear tires. These give the bike excellent grip to ride at high speeds on any kind of surface. Front disc brake and rear drum brake give you all the confidence you need.

The Honda PCX 150 band has remained fresh through continuous improvements that have kept coming one after the other. It is modern and refined maxi scooter in a stylish package like no other. It is nearly the best in its segment. But comes at a pocket burning cost. At RM 11000, it needs its riders to have an uncompromising attitude towards quality. Do you possess this attitude? Or would you like to make a compromise?