Honda PCX 125 (2017–2020) Review: The Urban Commuter’s Swiss Army Knife

Introduction

The Honda PCX 125 has long been a staple in the urban scooter segment, and the 2017–2020 generation solidifies its reputation as a practical, stylish, and remarkably efficient machine. Designed for city dwellers who demand reliability without sacrificing flair, this scooter blends Honda’s engineering prowess with everyday usability. After spending a week weaving through traffic, navigating narrow streets, and even tackling a weekend countryside ride, it’s clear why the PCX remains a top contender in its class. Let’s dive into what makes this two-wheeler tick.

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Design & Ergonomics

The PCX 125’s design is a masterclass in balancing form and function. Its sharp, angular lines and dual LED headlights give it a futuristic edge, while the underbone frame keeps it lightweight and agile. The 2017–2020 refresh introduced subtle tweaks to the bodywork, including sleeker turn signals and a more sculpted seat, enhancing both aesthetics and aerodynamics.

With a seat height of 764 mm (30.1 inches), it’s accessible for riders of all statures. The flat floorboard adds to the comfort, allowing easy leg positioning, and the wide, padded seat feels like a lounge chair during hour-long commutes. Honda offered multiple color options during this generation, including Pearl Night Blue, Matte Grey Metallic, and Black Pearl Nightstar, ensuring riders could pick a finish that matched their personality.

The underseat storage compartment deserves special mention. At 22–23 liters, it swallows a full-face helmet with room to spare for groceries or a small backpack. For longer trips, adding a rear rack (available at MOTOPARTS.store) expands cargo capacity without compromising the scooter’s clean lines.

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Engine & Performance

Powering the PCX 125 is a 124.9cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine paired with Honda’s PGM-FI fuel injection system. The result? A smooth, vibration-free ride that’s perfect for stop-and-go traffic. Output figures hover around 12–12.1 HP (8.8–8.9 kW) and 11.8–12 Nm (8.7–8.9 lb-ft) of torque, which might seem modest, but the scooter’s 130 kg (286 lb) curb weight ensures peppy acceleration.

Twist the throttle, and the PCX leaps forward with urgency, reaching 50 km/h (31 mph) in under 6 seconds—more than enough for urban sprints. The CVT transmission is seamless, eliminating gear shifts and letting riders focus on the road. Fuel efficiency is where this engine shines, averaging 1.76–2.1 L/100 km (56.8–47.6 km/L or 112–133 mpg). That translates to over 350 km (217 miles) from its 8-liter (2.1-gallon) tank, making it a frugal companion for daily rides.

For eco-conscious riders, Honda also offered a Hybrid variant in this generation, combining the combustion engine with a compact electric motor. The system provides a slight torque boost during acceleration and reduces emissions, though it doesn’t support full electric mode.

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Ride Experience

Riding the PCX 125 feels like gliding on rails. The 31mm telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks handle potholes and speed bumps with composure, while the 14-inch wheels strike a perfect balance between stability and maneuverability. At low speeds, the scooter feels nimble enough to U-turn on a dime, yet it remains planted at highway speeds up to 90 km/h (56 mph).

The braking system—220mm front disc and 130mm rear drum—provides adequate stopping power, though upgrading to sintered brake pads (available in our store) enhances bite in wet conditions. The 90/90-14 front and 100/90-14 rear tires offer decent grip, but swapping to premium rubber like Michelin City Grip improves cornering confidence.

Wind protection is surprisingly effective for a scooter of this size. The redesigned windshield deflects most airflow at cruising speeds, and the ergonomic handlebar placement reduces rider fatigue.

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Features & Practicality

Honda didn’t skimp on tech for this generation. The digital-analog instrument cluster provides clear readouts for speed, fuel level, and trip data, with a subtle blue backlight for nighttime visibility. The ignition switch includes a handy shutter mechanism to deter dirt and moisture—a small but thoughtful touch.

The Idling Stop System (ISS) automatically shuts off the engine after 3 seconds of idling, restarting instantly when the throttle is twisted. It’s a game-changer in traffic, cutting fuel consumption and emissions. Riders who find ISS intrusive can disable it via a button near the left grip.

Security features include Honda’s HISS immobilizer, making the PCX 125 a less appealing target for thieves. For added peace of mind, consider pairing it with a GPS tracker from our accessories range.

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Competition

The 125cc scooter segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the PCX stacks up:

• Yamaha NMAX 125: Shares similar specs but adds dual-channel ABS. However, the NMAX’s underseat storage is smaller, and its seat is firmer over long distances.
• Suzuki Burgman Street 125: Boasts a larger front wheel and sportier styling but weighs 10 kg (22 lb) more, dulling acceleration.
• Vespa Primavera 125: A style icon with a steel monocoque frame, yet it lacks the PCX’s storage space and costs significantly more.

The PCX 125’s blend of efficiency, comfort, and Honda’s bulletproof reliability gives it an edge for practicality-focused buyers.

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Maintenance

The PCX 125 is notoriously low-maintenance, but adhering to Honda’s service intervals ensures longevity:

• Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-30 oil every 4,000 km (2,485 miles). Our store stocks OEM filters and synthetic blends for smoother cold starts.
• Valve Adjustments: Check every 8,000 km (4,970 miles). Intake valves should be 0.08–0.12 mm (0.003–0.005 in), exhaust 0.22–0.26 mm (0.009–0.010 in).
• Drive Belt: Inspect every 12,000 km (7,456 miles). Cracks or fraying? Replace it with our high-strength aftermarket belts.
• Coolant: Replace every 2 years using ethylene glycol-based coolant. The system holds 600 ml (20 oz).
• Tire Pressure: Maintain 2.0 bar (29 psi) front and 2.3–2.5 bar (33–36 psi) rear for optimal grip and wear.

Common upgrades include installing a taller windscreen, LED auxiliary lights, or a premium shock absorber kit—all available at MOTOPARTS.store.

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Final Thoughts

The Honda PCX 125 (2017–2020) isn’t just a scooter—it’s a lifestyle enabler. Whether you’re dodging traffic, running errands, or embarking on a leisurely coastal ride, it delivers a refined, hassle-free experience. While it may lack the raw power of larger bikes, its frugality, storage options, and sleek design make it a standout choice in the 125cc class.

For owners looking to personalize or maintain their PCX, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance upgrades to OEM-spec service kits. After all, a well-maintained PCX isn’t just transportation; it’s a trusted partner for the urban jungle.

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Specifications sheet

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