New Honda PCX 125

The SOHC, liquid-cooled two-valve 125cc enhanced Smart Power (eSP) engine powering the PCX125 offers compact durability with excellent performance away from the lights plus quiet, smooth operation and reduced CO2 production.

At this stage of its development more power at high rpm – with no loss of torque down low – was the target for improved performance in higher speed ranges. Peak power is now up .3kW to 9.0kW @ 8,500rpm, with peak torque of 11.8Nm @ 5,000rpm.

To achieve the gain the airbox now has a 1L larger volume than the previous design (achieved thanks to the rear shocks moving backward). The intake is positioned to the left and the location and profile of internal parts has been revised to allow the smoothest airflow path possible.

The compact radiator – integrated into the exterior of the right-side crankcase – uses a new shroud design with a larger volume at the two exhaust ports to improve transmission of hot air. This enhancement means a smaller fan – down 7mm to 125mm in diameter, with revised blade shaping – delivers highly efficient cooling without the need for a larger radiator to deal with the extra heat generated by the increased power.

Also redesigned are the left side crankcase and the drive/driven pulley wheels of the V-Matic continuously variable transmission, which are now larger and feature revised profiles expanding the range of gear ratios. This change maintains acceleration in the low-speed range (compared to the previous model) and delivers linear – and stronger – acceleration at mid- to high-speed. It also reduces belt friction, which contributes to the outstanding 47.6km/litre fuel efficiency (without Idling Stop, WMTC mode). This results in a tank range of over 400km thanks to the 8.0 litre tank.

The Idling Stop system has functionality to ‘read’ the battery charge and turn itself off to avoid excessive drain. The battery itself is a large, long-life YTZ8V unit.

A 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 new PCX125 expands on the theme, and employs new, natural contours of continuously varying curves, delivering a strong visual statement with an upmarket feel. Again, the smooth, large areas are painted in the primary colour and link front to rear without interruption, and the lower bodywork is also much more integrated into the overall styling.

Another detail redesign is the engine cover and airbox inlet, which are styled together as integrated parts. Finished in metallic silver, the engine cover emphasizes a solid mechanical strength; above it a black cover – which incorporates the air inlet – is elegantly shaped with a mixture of firm lines and softer curves.

From the front, the PCX125 also stakes out a strong identity; the LED headlights and razor-thin position lights slant independently upwards, with LED indicators discreetly filling out the upper, outer tips. This new ‘face’ also changes subtly between high and low beam. The slim LED rear tail light/indicator unit is still two-tiered, but larger in size for increased visibility.

The rider’s view of the cockpit has been enhanced – the use of black against chrome around the handlebars adds a premium touch, as do chromed, tapered handlebar bar ends. The large left hand fairing pocket will easily hold a water bottle or drinks can and now has an extended lid (compared to the old design) to allow the rider to access the contents easily. It also contains a 12V AC adaptor.

Internal capacity of the underseat storage has been increased 1L to 28L, with no increase in body width, and will easily hold a full-face helmet. The owner’s manual and tool kit are now located on the underside of the seat.

A new central console design presents all the 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.

The 2018 PCX125 has a new chassis; the tubular steel ‘underbone’ design of the previous model has been replaced with a full steel duplex cradle.

This has improved the machine’s handling ability and feel, without losing the in-town manoeuvrability the PCX has always been famous for, plus its user-friendliness and relaxed riding position. Also (for the first time on a Honda scooter) a plastic main fairing stay has replaced the steel structure used before; this, and the frame redesign has shaved 2.4kg from the structure, further aiding agility.

Wheelbase is 2mm shorter at 1,313mm, and steering geometry remains the same, with 27° rake and 86mm trail. Overall kerb weight is 130kg. Both front and rear wheels are lighter and use thinner rims, with an 8-spoke (rather than 5-spoke) design.

The front also employs a hollow hub; it weighs 7% less (0.2kg) while the rear saves 11% (0.5kg). Tyre sizes are also larger, 100/80-14 front and 120/70-14 rear (as opposed to 90/90-14 and 100/90-14) and combined with the new wheels not only ensure lighter handling but also contribute to the improved fuel economy through reduced tyre deflection.

The 31mm front forks are unchanged with 89mm axel travel, but the rear shock absorbers are re-sited more towards the rear of the machine; they now use tri-rate (rather than dual) springs for a smoother ride, whether on rough city streets or out of town.

Stopping power is provided by the two piston caliper 220mm front disk brake, and 130mm rear drum brake; single-channel ABS operates on the front brake.

A range of accessories are available for the PCX 125:

• Windshield
• 35 litre top box
• Top box carrier
• U-lock
• Heated grips
• Outdoor scooter cover