A year removed from an extensive styling update that included full LED lighting, the Honda PCX150 returns essentially unchanged for 2016. If you’re looking for a sleek, safe, and dependable scooter to ride around town and beyond, this one should definitely appear on your list.

Photo: Honda

Properly motivated
The lightweight, compact, and liquid-cooled 153cc engine powering the PCX150 offers high durability with excellent performance, plus quiet and smooth operation. The engine layout is built around a host of low-friction technologies working in harmony, for example an offset cylinder and a “spiny” cast-iron sleeve (with tiny surface extensions). Honda also explains that a compact combustion chamber and PGM-FI fuel injection system optimize the burning rate, tailoring torque characteristics to suit the rpm ranges typically used in urban situations.

The V-Matic wide-ratio continuously variable transmission employs a quiet, durable drive belt made of high-elasticity rubber to efficiently transfer power to the rear wheel. Furthermore, rolling resistance within the transmission unit is reduced by the use of three low-friction main bearings, each specifically designed to deal with the loads it individually receives.

Easy handling
The 2016 Honda PCX150’s tubular steel frame features a short 1,315mm wheelbase and optimized steering geometry to provide nimble handling and a stable, comfortable ride. The low-slung fuel tank is mounted under the floorboards to keep the centre of gravity low, further increasing maneuverability around urban obstacles. The tight 2m turning radius helps a lot, too.

The stability-enhancing 14” cast aluminum wheels are wrapped in special Dunlop tires designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. More importantly, Honda’s advanced Combined Braking System (C-ABS) is still included, linking the front and rear wheels when you pull the front brake lever for balanced stopping.

Smart and stylish design
The centre console of the PCX150 presents all the information within a neat, concise design, while the spacious under-seat storage area easily accommodates a laptop or most full-face helmets. The handy, lockable glove compartment up front allows quick access to the essentials, and comes with a 12V power outlet for charging personal electronics. Look for generous foot room and protection from urban grime, as well. Need to pull over for an emergency stop? A hazard function will flash all four turn signals.

As for available body colours, Candy Noble Red and Bright Bronze Metallic have been replaced by Matte Techno Silver Metallic. The 2016 Honda PCX150 starts at $3,999, which is just $100 more expensive than the outgoing model.