Honda is introducing an all new scooter that's just as capable of running errands in the city as undertaking long highway trips to the cottage. The Japanese manufacturer is finally thinking outside the box and delivering a solid alternative for big city dwellers.

The 2013 Honda PCX150 looks much sleeker and sportier than the Giorno and Ruckus, yet features all the basic scooter ingredients including convenient storage and great manoeuvrability. Two paint options are available: black and red/white. The former contributes to a stealthier appearance, while the latter adds some style and sophistication.


Surprisingly, the PCX150 comes with full-length floorboards instead of the more traditional step-through design. Mind you, they should make for a more flexible riding position based on road conditions. Honda promises easy ingress and egress, but we'll have to wait for our first test ride to find out for certain.

Both the centre and side stands remain, so expect the 2013 Honda PCX150 to be relatively easy to park despite its size and weight (130 kg).

Surprisingly, the PCX150 comes with full-length floorboards instead of the more traditional step-through design. (Photo: Honda)

In terms of storage, there's a 25-litre compartment under the seat that should be large enough to fit a full-face helmet (secured on a hook) and other small items. Up front, the compact bin under the instrument panel will be great for storing a cell phone, iPod or wallet. A rear top case is available to boost cargo capacity.

Careful attention to detail went into the design of the seat on the 2013 Honda PCX150 to ensure superior comfort. Moreover, a passenger shouldn't have any problem sitting behind the rider and enjoying a nice trip.

The 2013 Honda PCX150 is powered by a 153cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection. Output is said to be more than adequate for city and highway riding, meaning a cruising speed of about 120 km/h. If that's the case, we're in for a treat. The revised ECU, together with the V-Matic automatic transmission, should translate into smooth, linear takeoffs every single time.

Output is said to be more than adequate for city and highway riding, meaning a cruising speed of about 120 km/h. (Photo: Honda)

The front fork and rear swingarm offer 89 and 79 mm of travel, respectively, and will likely make quick work of bumps and other road imperfections. The 6L tank is mounted under the floorboards to lower the machine's centre of gravity and improve handling. Elsewhere, Honda's acclaimed Combined Braking System (CBS) uses a 220 mm front disc brake with a hydraulic three-piston caliper as well as a rear drum brake for safe emergency stops.

Riding on 14'' wheels, the 2013 Honda PCX150 stands halfway between a conventional scooter and a model like the Honda SH150i that's designed with versatile performance in mind. The company wants to break through a new market segment, and I think they're on the right track.

An upcoming road test should confirm all of this, so stay tuned.