How did Honda address that issue, and at what price? To find out, read on.
The Goods: More than Just a Slightly Bigger Engine
Foreign market PCX150s boast an Idle Stop feature, which automatically shuts the engine off when the bike is at a standstill, but the U.S. version relies on other improvements like a newly developed belt design, a centrally positioned radiator, and reduced frictional losses. Although the 153cc engine is 22 percent bigger than the 125cc model it replaces, it claims an estimated fuel economy of 102 mpg-- a negligible compromise to the PCX125's figure of 110 mpg.
Other improvements to the PCX150 include a revised seat cushion and seat back rest for greater comfort compared to the old perch, and a new 35 liter top case for more storage possibilities.
Elsewhere, the PCX150 offers typical scooter features like fourteen inch wheels at either end, a 220mm front disk brake linked to a rear drum, both a sidestand and a centerstand, and 25 liter underseat storage along with a small 1.5 liter glovebox up front.
Best of all, the PCX150's price comes in at $3,449, only $50 more than the 125cc model it replaces.
On the Road: Improved Ergonomics and Freeway Speeds, Yet Still Very Scooterish
The 2013 Honda PCX150 scooter.
Photo © Basem WasefAround town, the PCX150 zips around nimbly and easily, especially since its 286 pound curb weight is only 6 pounds more than its predecessor. Motorcycle fans might prefer the big bike handling of SH150i model, which is graced with 16-inch wheels but doesn't look nearly as cool as the PCX. Accelerating to freeway speeds requires a bit of bravado on the PCX150, especially in areas where traffic flows faster than the recommended limit; I hit just above an indicated 70 mph on the PCX, which can be an eye-opening speed on a scooter with smallish 14-inch wheels. I found a quick highway blast to be perfectly appropriate for the PCX150; it got me where I needed to go, despite the heightened sense of focus required due to faster moving traffic and the sometimes twitchy responsiveness of those small wheels.
Other scooter benefits include an underseat storage compartment big enough for a helmet, and a lightweight footprint that makes it easily to maneuver onto sidewalks and narrow uphill spots for parking.
Bottom Line, Who Should Buy the 2013 Honda PCX150 Scooter?
Who Should Buy the 2013 Honda PCX150 Scooter?
Avid scooter fans who need freeway legality but don't mind dodging faster moving traffic.2013 Honda PCX150 Specifications
A cockpit view of the 2013 Honda PCX150.
Photo © Basem Wasef- Price: $3,499
- Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke 153cc single-cylinder
- Transmission: CVT (continuously variable transmission)
- Front Suspension: 31mm hydraulic fork, 3.5 inches of travel
- Rear Suspension: Unit swingarm with dual shocks, 3.1 inches of travel
- Brakes: Combined, with 220mm front disk, 3 piston caliper, and rear drum
- Curb Weight: 286 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 1.6 gallon
- Estimated Fuel Economy: 102 mpg
- Seat Height: 29.9 inches
