The mid-sized 2011 Honda PCX is a good argument against this general lack of scooter knowledge. As with most scooters, throwing a leg over the PCX is easy. It’s 29.9-inch seat height, low center of gravity, and well-placed controls give it a familiar and comfortable feel, and the gently stepped seat helps to keep the rider firmly in place under acceleration. The PCX is powered by a liquid-cooled four-stroke engine displacing 125cc and its fuel-injection system includes an automatic enrichment feature for cooler climates. With the ignition turned on and the rear brake lever squeezed, the Honda starts gently and idles quietly.
Notably, Honda estimates that riders who aren’t trying to test the performance limits of the PCX can squeeze 110 miles per gallon from the four-stroke single. As for stopping power, the three-piston 220mm front disc and rear drum brakes are strong, and the lever pull firm. The activation is so smooth that it’s imperceptible to the rider, but a firm pull on the rear brake lever leaves no doubt that the front disc is working.
The handling is light, precise, fluid, and stable at the speeds the PCX is able to generate, no doubt aided by its 14-inch wheels.
The PCX is powered by a liquid-cooled 125cc single-cylinder engine, landing in Honda’s line-up between the China-built Elite 110 and the Italian-built SH150i. The PCX is the first import coming from Honda’s newly constructed Thailand plant.
Small yet feature-packed, the PCX sports the ‘twist-n-go’ Honda V-Matic drive system (belt-converter automatic transmission), sparing the rider of any shifting or clutching needs.
The PCX is slightly larger in wheelbase (51.4 inches compared to the Elite 110’s 50.2 inches) and saddle height (29.9 inches to 29.1, respectively), the PCX is sure to be a hit with their target market – youth and new riders.
The PCX's Unit rear swingarm is suspended by a single shock with 2.9 inches of travel while the 31mm hydraulic front fork has 3.5-inches; neither is adjustable.
The Honda PCX has a fully fueled curb weight of 280 pounds.
Keeping safety a top priority for those newly addicted to riding “in the wind,” the new PCX will carry the same Combined Braking System (CBS) found on both the Elite and the SH. Linking front to rear, applying a little front-disc braking before rear-drum application for better control in potential adverse conditions and emergency situations.
Honda offers more cargo options via a 2.3-liter top box for $120.95. In the end, Honda’s scooter portfolio is expanded nicely with the new PCX, offering sportier styling than the traditionally flavored Elite and SH150i.
The "2011 Honda PCX" scooter is a great all-round people mover. The PCX is easy to ride with a step through frame and a low center of gravity.
110 MPGs!!! The 2011 Honda PCX is very competitive in the marketplace. The PCX is almost $1,000 cheaper than the "Vespa LX150".