As the adoration of automatic scooters slowly builds momentum in the US as an affordable and straightforward commuting solution, we see more riders hoping on two-wheels in recent years. Stemming from its popularity in other parts of the world, Honda has made the PCX 160 a viable option for the US market since 2021, offering maxi-scooter appeal in a smaller displacement variant. Not only offering a larger capacity engine than its competitors, the PCX 160 is seen as the ‘smarter’ urban scooter.
Backed by Honda’s renowned reputation as a provider of resilient and reliable motor vehicles, compared to those bargain-basement scooters from unknown brands out there, you are guaranteed to get a trusty stead from Big Red. The PCX 160 may not win any awards for speed, but what it lacks in performance, it surely makes up in versatility and practicality. You would be surprised at what this little two-wheeler is capable of doing on the road.
If you are in the market for an affordable two-wheeler for inner-city commuting, or just looking for a reliable means of transport that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, here are ten reasons we like the Honda PCX 160.
1 Fuel-Efficient Automatic Scooter
Due to the PCX’s engine capacity experiencing a slight upgrade in 2021, expanding from 149cc up to 157cc, you would think that fuel efficiency would be less than desirable. It is true that the PCX 150 was able to get around 120 miles per gallon, but the larger displacement promises somewhere close to 110 miles per gallon. With its fuel capacity of around 2.1 gallons, riders are sure to get more from a full tank of fuel when whipping around city streets. No wonder the PCX is a popular scooter in traffic-laden streets of Asia.
The fuel-sipping capabilities of the PCX 160 mean that it has the capability for long-distance riding. Yes, this little scooter can be used as a little tourer that is not only surprisingly comfy but has a number of supporting features that make it a great ride all around. Its long floorboard gives riders the ability to stretch their legs like on a cruiser when going on long rides. And let's just say it handles way better on the highway than a Vespa 150 Primavera.
2 Maxi Styling In An Affordable Package
When viewed from a distance, the PCX 160 appears like a mini maxi-scooter with its sharp lines and sleek curves, giving it a nice premium look. Something unique for a motorbike with an MSRP of $4,149. If its sibling the ADV 160 has a more rugged adventure style, the PCX is a more elegant alternative. And the maxi-scooter appeal goes even further with the array of features that this bike has to offer.
The 2021 and 2022 versions came in ABS and CBS (Combi-Brake System) variants, while the new 2023 PCX 160 is only available with ABS. Adding to its elegant tone, this scooter is equipped with LED lights all around and is equipped with a full digital monotone LCD screen. It also has a small compartment in the dash with a USB-C charger for your smartphone. Plus a number of other safety features that others in its class have yet to provide.
3 Best Performance In Its Class
Out of all the other automatic scooters in its class, the PCX 160 is the only one to offer an engine larger than 150cc. The 157cc liquid-cooled 80-degree single-cylinder four-stroke engine is said to produce around 15.8 horsepower and only 11.1 pound-feet of torque with a top speed of 73 miles per hour. Pretty underwhelming, but it is a utilitarian scooter for whipping around the city, not a high-performance sports bike. But it does borrow an oil jet spray lubricating system taken from racing to help prevent preignition and better maintain engine heat.
The closest contender to the Honda PCX 160 is probably the Suzuki Burgman 200, which offers a much larger displacement, and of course, comes with a much higher MSRP. Another factor that we like about this scooter compared to its larger contender is its slim design which makes it much easier to cut through lanes.
4 Offers A More Refined Riding Experience
Honda’s ADV 160 may offer better suspension compared to the PCX 160, but that does not mean that the ride is any less comfortable. For one, the ergonomics are much more relaxed, providing a slightly more laid-back rider triangle that is close to what one may find on a cruiser, albeit a tad more upright. The saddle also provides nice back support making longer rides much more bearable.
As standard, the PCX 160 comes with 31mm telescopic forks that provide 3.9 inches of travel and dual rear shocks with 3.7 inches of travel, which promises an easy ride over minor potholes and speed bumps. The 14-inch front wheel, is larger than other bikes in its class, giving it much more maneuverability and making it easier to handle, especially at high speeds.
5 Premium Features On A Small Scooter
As mentioned before, the PCX 160 comes with an assortment of features commonly found on larger displacement scooters. Other than single-channel ABS that now comes standard on all 2023 models, riders are also spoiled with a full digital display, LED lighting all around, a smart key system, traction control, and an active idling stop system for extra fuel efficiency.
Although already a common feature in most of Honda’s larger CVT models, the idling stop system cuts the engine the moment it reaches a full stop, such as at a red light. Riders simply need to twist the throttle and the engine will start back up again when the light turns green. There is also a large trunk under the seat that is great for hauling groceries or stashing your helmet after a ride.
6 Keeping Riders Safe On The Road
One of the key safety features of the PCX 160, other than ABS, is a type of traction control that Honda dubs HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control). According to Honda, this electronic aid is equipped for safety in low-traction situations. The system is linked to wheel speed and throttle opening, and the moment it senses a slip, the system intervenes by limiting engine torque. But if you want to go a little sideways, you have an option to switch it off.
The smart key system adds an extra layer of security to the motorcycle and is also a bragging point for PCX 160 riders, as they no longer have to fumble around with a key in the ignition. Like modern-day luxury cars, you simply have to have the key fob on you and press a button to start the engine. There is also a security system that can be activated on the key fob and will be triggered when someone tries to force-start the engine without the key fob. There is also a satisfying beep when you activate the security alarm.
7 Stable Two-Wheeler For Around Town Commutes
The larger and wider wheels of the PCX 160 compared to its competitors, and add to that its cushy inner-city suspension make this scooter a more stable platform for newbies to the world of two-wheelers. Its low seat height of 30.1 inches makes it very approachable for riders of various heights, but those taller than 6 feet may find their knees hitting the front console at times. The HSTC is also a great feature to have on this little two-wheeler, especially for newbies riding in the rain as it will quickly kick in to save you from any unwanted incidents.
With inner-city commuting as its main target, this scooter is made more maneuverable thanks to its 26.3-degree angle of rake formed by its 14-inch front wheel, which leads to a 3.11-inch trail. Extra stability is provided by the 13-inch rear wheel that is wrapped in a 130/70 tire that provides great traction when you twist the throttle.
8 Has A Large Capacity Trunk
One thing that Maxi-Scooters have over their smaller counterparts is large storage space, but Honda has considered this. By moving the fuel tank under the floorboards, there is free space under the seat to provide a 30-liter trunk. The trunk has been made to fit a full-faced helmet easily, but those who ride tandem can slip an extra helmet on the side hooks under the seat.
There is an extra storage compartment near the handlebars that is designed for charging your smartphone, complete with a USB-C charging hub. But you may not want to keep your phone there when parked, as there is no lock on the compartment, and the security alarm will not be triggered when it is opened. As the fuel tank has been shifted to be between the rider's feet, there are no hooks to hang extra bags under the handlebars, like on the retro-styled Honda Metropolitan.
9 Small And Nimble
One amazing thing about the PCX 160 is the fact that despite its maxi-scooter style, Big Red was able to deliver a compact scooter that is not only great for the city streets, but it also provides enough power to make that ride more exhilarating. Compared to other scooters in its class, this scooter is considered short at 51.7 inches, but Honda’s engineers were able to make it a maneuverable little machine. With a curb weight of 288 pounds, the PCX 160 is a breeze to park. It's no wonder the PCX has built a promising reputation in Asia as an elegant city cruiser.
10 Honda’s Renowned Reliability
What can we say, since they first set their foot on American soil, Honda has built a reputation for itself for creating reliable little machines. From their cars to motorcycles, Honda has been churning out vehicles that have been known to last a lifetime. You are guaranteed to find replacement parts for all your scooter needs, thanks to Honda’s global network of distributors and vendors. And don’t get us started on the aftermarket options available for the PCX160. If you have an inkling to tweak your scooter, unique parts are easy to come by. Just make sure they are legal in your state.