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In the test: Honda PCX 125

Take off

Real innovations have become rare in the scooter industry. But nobody expected that Honda would sell the new PCX without a starter.

But it’s not like you have to push the Honda scooter every time. Because of the variator and centrifugal clutch, this is not possible for physical-mechanical reasons. Tea PThe CX dispenses with a separate electric motor that drives the crankshaft via an intermediate gear because it has something much better: a so-called Dynastarter. Here, the alternator, which is located directly on the crankshaft, also takes over the function of the starter, making the highlight of the small 125cc possible in the first place: the automatic start-stop. After three seconds of idling, the cultivated and quiet four-stroke engine simply stops, so that the slightest turn of the throttle grip starts immediately and accelerates without delay.

This takes some getting used to at first, but after a short time you gain confidence and enjoy the peace and quiet while standing. If you don’t feel like switching on and off, simply switch the system off. According to Honda, consumption in city traffic should drop by around five percent. On the country road, 2.1 liters are enough for 100 kilometers. Apart from that, the PCX is a completely normal city runabout. With 11.7 cultivated and quiet horsepower, it is sufficiently, but not overly motorized. The very softly tuned chassis underlines the soft character, as does the gently responding integral brake. On narrow 14-inch wheels, the PCX drives around the corner in a playful yet stable manner. The wind protection could be better, but the poor equipment can easily be got over at a price of 2540 euros.

Brief verdict:
positive

  • Very low consumption
  • Very affordable price
  • Automatic start-stop
  • Cultivated and quiet drive
  • Powerful light
  • Large helmet compartment
  • Extremely easy jacking up

negative

  • Poor equipment
  • Very soft chassis
  • Modest driving dynamics
  • Low wind and weather protection
  • Very short service intervals

Technical specifications

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A full-face helmet and lots of odds and ends find a dry place under the bench.

The measured values:
Single cylinder four-stroke engine
Cubic capacity 125 cm³
Power transmission variator / belt
Output 8.6 kW (11.7 hp) at 8500 rpm
Max. Torque 12 Nm at 6000 rpm
Front brake disc (Ø 220 mm)
Rear brake drum (Ø 130 mm)
Front tires 90 / 90-14
Rear tire 100 / 90-14
Suspension travel front / rear 100/75 mm
Tank capacity 6.2 liters, super
Colors silver, black, white
Maintenance intervals 4000 km
Price 2540 euros plus additional costs

The data:
Top speed (factory specification) 96 km / h
Acceleration 0-50 km / h 5.4 sec
Acceleration 0-80 km / h 12.8 sec
Weight with a full tank 126 kg
Payload 178 kg
Consumption on highway 2.1 l / 100 km

Conclusion

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Organic shapes, flowing lines and a very low disc characterize the silhouette of the PCX.

In the city:
Urban driving is the domain of the Honda PCX. When parking, it jumps easily on and off the main stand. The scooter slips nimbly through the columns of cars and sprints away from the traffic lights. The automatic start-stop makes it both economical and pleasantly quiet.

On the country road:
You can have fun with the PCX on small, winding country lanes. It is neutral and comfortable to drive. The ground clearance even allows decent inclines. The bigger and straighter the streets get, the more you are bothered by the low engine power.

On the highway:

Motorways should only be used as a PCX driver in an emergency. With a top speed of only 96 km / h, buses and trucks become insurmountable opponents because they cannot be passed. Driving fun looks different. Despite the low speed you can tell that the wind protection is not the best.

Diploma
Engine:

Very sophisticated, quiet and extremely economical drive. The automatic start-stop is a hit. But could go to work more powerfully outside of town.
4 out of 5 stars

Landing gear:
Very handy thanks to narrow tires and small turning circle. Suspension very soft at the front, even softer at the back. Nothing for heavy or hurried drivers.
2 out of 5 stars

Brakes:
Thanks to CBS, both wheels are always decelerated, regardless of which lever is pulled. The effect is appropriate to the driving performance.
3 out of 5 stars

Furnishing:
Apart from the CBS, the equipment is poor, no frills. Safety-related things like lights and rearview mirrors work great.
2 out of 5 stars

Comfort:
The soft suspension takes the horror away from potholes. For a long time you wanted more legroom, but the bench is comfortable. Moderate weather protection.
3 out of 5 stars

Suitable for beginners:
Light and low, problem-free driving behavior and easy operation. If you can’t cope with the PCX, you’d better take the bus.
5 out of 5 stars

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