Scooter News Honda PCX Launch Before our big review we give a few first impressions.
Allen Drysdale
I get asked all the time, Just what is a commuter scooter? Well really it could be any type of scooter that gets you from point A to point B. Any scooter that gets you to and from work maybe?. Really it could be as little as 50 cc in capacity right up to 650 cc. A commuter could be any number of two wheeled incarnations. Though for me a commuter scooter is one that you generally use for your everyday transport, has good power to travel a varying array of speeds and has a number of handy features like ample storage etc. As well it must be good value for money.
It was an exciting thing being invited to the launch of Honda's all new PCX 125. For me the PCX is Honda's first real foray into what is for me the "commuter scooter" market. Now you might say well Honda already have the SH 150 or the Honda Lead, but for me the PCX offers everything a good commuter stands for at a value for money price.
In our short ride we were able to get a pretty comprehensive impression of this all new scooter from Honda. Manufactured in Thailand the PCX 125 will be sold throughout the world, it represents Honda's vision for the future. Its clean and green, its fast and it represents great value for money. So we at Scootersales think it ticks a few boxes. Now we will have a more comprehensive review coming but for now initial impressions count.
So first of all lets talk about the style. I like the family resemblance in the headlight, the curves of the body from front to back. At first glance you may think its a cruiser but next glance and the PCX becomes a compact commuter. From front-on the PCX may give the impression that its allot larger then it actually is. It isn't...
Actually once on the PCX its quite thin and with the weight being only 124 Kg the PCX combines the use of large wheels and short wheelbase to enhance the feel on the road. The PCX has a minimal turning circle of just 1.98 metres. Actually the PCX on the road felt extremely well balanced, sporty even. I think this is due to a few things but the prize must go to wheel size, frame design, wheelbase and suspension all working well in harmony.
Now lets just list a few initial things I really liked about the all new PCX. First up the motor. Its a corker putting out a very workable 8.33 Kw's of power. Its smooth, fluid and oh so Honda quite, liquid cooled as well. Fuel Injected of course and featuring Honda's all new stop/start technology. Come to a stop and the engine cuts out, twist the throttle and you have immediate go forward. Its impressive and contributes to Honda claiming 46 km/l fuel usage. By the way you have a switch to turn this feature on and off, a light to tell you the feature is engaged. To me the PCX felt more then capable of 100 km/h speeds.
And the tricks just keep on coming. Honda have removed the starter motor and replaced it with a device that they term Brushless ACG. This means that the crankshaft has an alternator/starting system directly connected to it. The system regenerates power in the battery when the scooter is running and starts the scooter in a seamless quite fashion. This starting system also saves an incredible amount of weight over your standard starter motor systems.
You will find an electronic switch up front to open fuel and seat, so no fuss at filling the fuel tank or opening the seat, all scooters should come with this. Under the seat you will fit a full face helmet and a little bit more with ease, a helmet hook has also been fitted. The ignition also has the added bonus of a fob lock, an alarm is available as an accessory. Whilst up front the bars would have to be a stand out feature, chrome and exposed they look amazing. A glovebox resides up front.
Other nice features include a two tier seat that's very comfortable. Flip out footpegs are top quality, and wont make you shy away from carrying a passenger. Twin non adjustable shocks up back help with compliance and suited my 85 Kg weight well.
A side stand and centre stand comes standard. Twin Halogen headlights help with being able to see at night. 5 spoke 14 inch alloy wheels look trick.
Last of all the PCX 125 has an accessory and customisation list as long as your arm and its all well within reach dollar wise. Take a look at my ride for the launch day. Came with a sticker kit and custom running boards that looked individual. The list just goes on and on, so have a look at the picture below just for a guide. Coloured exhaust shields, carbon and woodgrain panels, bar ends, scuff protectors, locks and a heap of other stuff.
So what's missing? Clock on the comprehensive dash. And maybe adjustment on the rear suspension (how many times have you adjusted the suspension lately?). Oh and also the PCX has a rear drum brake, but the Honda combined braking system works a treat. No biggy.
All up a very very nice effort from Honda. Like I said initially, an extensive review will be warranted on delivery of our test unit. Till then I reckon Honda may just have a winner. With an MLP of $3990 the Honda has enough tricks and features to be a real day to day machine of convenience. Everything points to hassle free, efficient scootering.
Honda Australia will be giving the PCX 125 every chance of success with national advertising through various media including TV. There is even a PCX 125 micro site, check it out at www.hondapcx.com.au and go into the draw to win 1 of 5 Honda PCX 125's.
Stock should be at your nearest Honda dealer this week.
Honda PCX 125 Key Links
Australian Press Release PCX 125
European Press release PCX 125
Brochure Download PCX 125
PCX Media - Pictures - Video
published 26/08/2010 |