2013 Honda PCX 150

The brand new Honda PCX 150 scooter took a great bike and made it better. When the PCX 125 was released in 2011 it became an instant hit. Here was a sporty, fuel efficient, with tons of room, everyday commuter for just about anyone. The styling resembled the larger maxi scoots, such as its much bigger sibling the Silverwing etc. The only minor complaint was that consumers wished it had more than the 125cc worth of power?

Honda answered the call two years later by releasing the PCX 150. On the outside there are only suttle cosmetic differences, such as the 150 graphic next to "PCX" and a noticable larger engine. The PCX 150 now features a liquid cooled, fuel injected 153cc engine and can make capable speeds of 70-75 mph, freeway legal in most states. The word is that this is the same dynamic engine used in the sadly short lived SH150i but no proof of that. We have one and that is a terrific bike in itself but was way too overpriced at $4,495. Honda did something remarkable and kept the PCX 150 at the same price as the outgoing 2011 model at $3,449. I'm sure there a lot of unhappy 125cc owners out there that are most likely trading theirs in?

Like I mentioned before, the new PCX 150 is unchanged from the popular 125cc model except for the engine change. It still runs on 14" wheels and is stopped by a front disc brake and a rear drum, and employs Honda's CBS (combined braking system) which the left lever supplies braking to both the front and rear brakes, the right lever is still just the front. This system will stop you "on a dime". Our SH150i & Silverwing both have this and is amazing how effective it is. The large comfortable seat will easily ride two and there are flip out foot pegs for the passenger. Underseat storage is a large 2.5 liters, which will hold most full face helmets and some smaller items. There is also a smaller locking compartment under the handlebars for wallet ,keys etc.

Riding this machine is very smooth with rapid acceleration. It will cruise all day at 55mph with no problems, even "two up". Once you hit 70 mph, there isn't much left, so I would still be a little leery on 65 mph interstate highways. The twin shocks and large wheels make for a softer ride over rough terrain and its 286 lb weight makes it easily put up on its center stand and light enough to "toss around", especially on twisty roads. Honda claims over 100 mpg fuel economy from its 1.6 gallon tank, which is more like 50cc numbers, so that is incredible. We maintain high 90s with our SH150i and it is heavier at over 300 lbs.

The PCX 150 is available in metallic black & metallic red. Honda seems to only give the U.S. two color choices, I don't know why? A lot of people will probably keep their 125cc, just for the sharp white color choice it was offered in, along with the red. This bike is already selling very well, according to our local dealer and is a blast to ride. I know I had said before that the short lived Elite 110 was the "best bang for your buck" scoot, but there is now a new champion!!!!!