A Closer Look at the 2019 Honda PCX Hybrid Scooter
Honda has been in the business of delivering topnotch products for decades, and since they never disappoint, we are always eager to sample whatever product they launch. They now have a new scooter which they refer to as the “motorcycle hybrid system” which is going to make Honda Motors the pioneers of hybrid scooter production. Unfortunately, the United States will have to wait its turn to feel what this scooter is made of because it is currently in the Asian market only. Still, it was showcased in the Tokyo Auto Show so let’s take a look at what Honda has built with this two-wheeler.
Horsepower
Asians love riding on two wheels, and maybe that is the motivation behind the 2019 Honda PCX hybrid scooter. Besides, the PCX hybrid was designed primarily for the Asian market, and it now comes with extra comfort and speed. It has a lithium battery (48 volts) and can build up to 12 horsepower, thanks to the OHC four stroke single mill. The lithium battery sits in the luggage box leaving enough room to put your face helmet in since it has a capacity of 23 liters.
The scooter has a generator, drive motor and starter that gives the torque a 36% boost while also adding the horsepower to reach an output of 14hp. With the motor weighs only 11 pounds and helps you as you ride through urban jams or pull away from signals.
Fuel efficiency
The drive motor also ensures you keep your fuel expenses on the low by cutting emission and increasing fuel efficiency. It also affords you impressive acceleration that you will hardly find in any scooter that comes with a 125cc. Fuel efficiency is also enhanced by the two motor assists drive modes namely “D” and “S.” The D mode is for that time you are in no hurry and want to take in all that is around you; it also helps to boost your fuel economy. S mode, on the other hand, is for those instances you want to test the limits of the scooter; thereby it improves the performance.
In this era when economic times keep getting hard, the Honda PCX guarantees that you do not dig deeper in your pockets on account of fueling your scooter. Whenever you come to a stop, the Honda ICE shuts off, and the ACG reruns it when it is time to hit the road. Moreover, you should expect to consume less fuel than the standard 125 mpg. The Honda PCX will consume 122 mpg when it has one rider and in real-world conditions. If they are two people on board and they are riding at 37 mph, the scooter will consume 129 mpg. Better yet, the tank can hold 2.1 gallons, so you do not have to worry about running out of fuel before getting to your destination.
Comparison to the PCX 150
The 2019 Honda PCX hybrid scooter is quite similar to the standard PCX in many ways. For instance, it weighs the same as the Honda PCX sold in the US, with a weight of 298 pounds. Also, the wheels are 14 inches, and it has a steel double cradle frame that gives you more control and stability. The scooter has a fork and swingarm suspension, and a 220 mm front disc brake, with suspension. The main difference is the LED lighting that goes all around the scooter. It has a central LED headlight, LED turn signals that are long and slanting upwards and LED instrumentation. You also do not have to hold your helmet under your armpits because it has a helmet hook.
The scooter has a 12-volt charging socket and two storage areas, one under the seat and the other on the front apron. The rear suspension unit has changed its position allowing the scooter to fit a bigger air filter. Moreover, the braking channel now has a single channel ABS which is optional.
Price
The 2019 Honda hybrid PCX scooter will have an MSRP of 432,000 Japanese Yen which is equivalent to about $3950. At first, 2000 of the bikes will be built in Vietnam before hitting the Japan market and the Asian market at large. Compared to the PCX150, there is not much price difference because the 150cc goes for $3,699 making the PCX hybrid expensive by only $251.
