Friday, February 26, was a busy day for the local motorcycle industry. That day, we covered the virtual launches of the new Honda PCX 160 and the Yamaha NMax 155, which were presented by the two big manufacturers almost back to back.
But before the online presentation, Honda Philippines organized a quick test ride of the 2021 PCX 160 at the Honda Safety Driving Center (HSDC). Here’s how it fared on a short, highly technical course.
Styling
In recent years, the premium scooter segment has been one of the best performers in the sales charts. While the PCX has certainly sold well, its design—which has remained virtually unchanged for a while now—puts it at a bit of a disadvantage when it’s up against newer competitors.
That said, the PCX 160 is loved by scooter fans for its sharp yet classy overall styling, and it now features a new LED head- and taillight along with redesigned alloy wheels. Honda’s designers have even come up with new color schemes (Pearl Fadeless White and Asteroid Black Metallic for the ABS variant, and Matte Dim Gray Metallic and Pearl Fadelesss White for the CBS) that make the PCX 160 more dignified-looking.
I would like to believe the new PCX will draw more respect and courtesy at police checkpoints, provided the rider dons full safety gear as well. Come to think of it, with its uniform color and lack of graphics, the Pearl Fadeless White PCX 160 could also pass as a police bike.
The saddle
The PCX has already made a mark as a scooter that pampers riders with its wide, well-cushioned seats and spacious stepboard. It offers an upright riding position that’s comfortable even during heavy traffic.
The two-step seat and the high-positioned foot pegs give the passenger a good sense of safety by having a good view of what’s up ahead. The grab rail, however, needs to be stretched a bit to prevent the pillion rider from moving backward just to get a safer grip.
There’s also an improvement in the locking system of the underseat compartment. Unlike the one on the current PCX, which takes several attempts to close, the locking mechanism here catches the seat’s metal U-bar with precision. That’s the fit and finish Honda motorcycles are known for.
Engine performance
The new scooter packs a bit of additional power after Honda increased the engine capacity from 149cc to 157cc. Its little mill now produces 15.6hp, versus the PCX 150’s 13.3hp. The new eSP+ (Enhanced Smart Power Plus) engine technology still applies an SOHC four-valve, liquid-cooled layout.
I felt the slight increase in engine displacement as I closely tailed the HSDC instructor. The course had a small yet steep bridge that required the rider to slow down before making a quick left turn upon entry to the highly elevated structure. The uphill climb test was like a walk in the park.
From S-turns to the cornering sections, the swift, smooth throttle response allowed me to accelerate from the apex and regain speed with ease before heading to the next course. Braking modulation was effortless, too, while establishing a rhythm in speed attacking corners.
Ride and handling
The riding dynamics of the PCX 160 are very easy to get familiar with. This gave me the guts to keep up with the instructor's pace, knowing the scooter will heed my commands.
The sharp cornering traits and nimbleness of the PCX made me smile while doing a figure-eight on the course. I was impressed with the PCX’s stopping power when I executed the brake test at 30kph. On both the CBS (Combi Brake System) and ABS variants of the scooter, it took just a little pressure on the levers for the calipers to effectively clamp the front and rear discs.
But honestly speaking, I preferred the ABS variant since I feel more at ease using 90% of the braking up front than at the rear. Aside from giving the PCX 160 a beefier look, the bigger tire up front also boosts its cornering abilities.
The most important feature of the new PCX 160 is Honda Selectable Torque Control, which functions just like traction control. In the absence of wet or slippery surfaces at HSDC’s proving grounds, I didn’t feel any difference in road traction even after toggling the system on and off.
Extra features
Honda has fitted the new PCX 160 with the Idling Stop System, a USB charging socket inside the front cubby, and a keyless entry system with anti-theft and answer-back features. Just like with the outgoing model, this version comes with a 3o-liter underseat compartment—enough to accommodate a full-face helmet and raincoat.
Verdict
Under the new normal, millions are still looking for a decent, respectable ride to the office as an alternative to four-wheeled vehicles.
The PCX 160 might fall short in terms of having a full TFT panel or nifty connectivity features—things that its nemesis, the new Yamaha NMax 155, has. These will come sooner or later, since they are now available on other smaller-displacement Honda motorbikes with recently launched abroad.
Nevertheless, the prices of the 2021 Honda PCX 160 ABS and CBS variants will probably make you decide to go for the scooter from the Red Brigade, since it shines in terms of styling and performance. This also leaves you with some savings for accessories or riding gear.
SPECS: 2021 Honda PCX 160
Price: P115,900 (CBS), P133,900 (ABS)
Engine: 156cc SOHC single-cylinder
Transmission: CVT
Power: 15.6hp at 8,500rpm
Torque: 15Nm at 6,500rpm
NOTE: This article first appeared on TopBikes.ph. Minor edits have been made.
