Honda PCX125 (2025 – ) review

The PCX125 has been a polished performer ever since the original launched in 2010. Over that time it’s been a consistent UK and Europe-wide best-seller, beloved of both commuters and delivery riders. Much of the original brief has remained spot-on and it’s been continually updated ever since. That original, for example, was the first two-wheeler in Europe to feature stop and start technology and, two years later, it became the first scooter in Europe to use Honda’s ultra-efficient Smart Power engine. For 2016 it gained Euro4 compliance and, in 2018, a new chassis and more power. In 2021 the frame, engine and styling were updated again and for 2025 it gets another freshen up, this time with additional weather protection from the sharper styling, disc rear brake in place of the previous drum arrangement, piggy-back rear shocks and an uprated dash. In Europe there are now two PCXs – the standard model with LCD screen and the uprated DX with bigger TFT, Bluetooth connectivity and premium paint. This is the only one we get in the UK, which is no bad thing given the extra features.

Powered two-wheelers don’t get much easier to get on with and the latest PCX125 is still pretty much the benchmark. It’s dinky and completely unintimidating, without feeling too small for taller riders like your 6’ 3” tester. Indeed, the step-through design and low 763mm seat height make it accessible for all. The bars are nice and near, the footboards have sufficient room for your feet, the riding position is upright and intuitive, the PCX is so light it’s a doddle to manoeuvre and there’s now even extra weather protection.

Machines like this are all about urban practicality and value and the new PCX125 remains the bike to beat. If not spectacular the performance is enough to keep up with town traffic, it’s very economical, you can ride it on a CBT and L-plates and it’s now packed with useful tech via the fully connected TFT screen and supporting phone app. That means turn-by-turn nav, phone, music and all the rest with a USB-C charger in the storage cubby. There’s space under the seat to store a full-face helmet and, being a Honda, it has proven reliability and durability. Of course, if you want more features or performance there are plenty of pricier alternatives but, at this price point, the PCX does it all.

The PCX’s 125cc four-valve single is unchanged, remains more sophisticated than most thanks to its water jacket and stop and start system and delivers a fraction over 12 horsepower and 11.7Nm through its idiot-proof twist and go CVT transmission. It won’t excite or delight but does the job and impressive fuel economy of up to 130mpg is enough for up to 240 miles between fill-ups. That performance doesn’t require much by way of rider electronics, but the PCX has Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), a rudimentary traction control system. Braking-wise it’s a similar story. The single front disc is alright and has been joined by the same at the back in place of the previous drum. Basic ABS also features. Nothing to get excited about but all better than average.

In the context of affordable commuter 125s the PCX’s chassis is again better than most. The front 31mm telescopic forks, steel spine frame and new remote reservoir rear shocks combine into a comfortable, predictable ride while the 14-inch front/13-inch rear wheel combo strikes a smart compromise between nimble steering and stability. Ultimately, the PCX remains a budget machine with some components built down to a price and it can jar over big potholes with an obvious lack of the refinement of more expensive sports scooters. But for its intended purpose it’s more than sufficient.

Surely a big part of the reason why the PCX has been a UK best seller for over a decade, not just in its class but in powered two-wheelers overall. It’s usefully cheaper than its posher Forza 125 stablemate and, if priced above the base Yamaha NMAX and many and various Chinese equivalents, there is the reassurance of the Honda quality. Then it only gets better! The PCX’s economy is class-leading, it holds its value and, with its meagre performance, demand on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and so on is virtually non-existent. Overall, there is probably no cheaper way to travel.

Yes, this is an updated model with new features such as its TFT dash. But it’s also a further refinement of a machine that’s now evolved through five incarnations, has done millions of miles, has suffered from virtually no mechanical issues so far as we’re aware and, at the end of the day, carries with it all the reassurance of the Honda brand’s reputation for reliability. There may be some new tech but we’ve every reason to believe the new PCX125 will be just as rugged as its predecessors.

The PCX125 comes in with a standard two-year manufacturer warranty covering all parts and labour. On top of that Honda also offers an extended warranty up to a total of six years if you commit to the recommended service schedule at authorised dealers. To wit, the PCX requires its first ‘break-in’ oil and filter service at 600 miles, followed by regular services every 4,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. This doesn’t sound particularly generous by bike standards but, given the short-distance urban use it’s likely to get, is more than sufficient.

One area where the new PCX125 has significantly improved for 2025, though caveated by the fact UK buyers only get the more expensive DX version and not the base model offered elsewhere. That does at least mean all the toys, like the new 5.0-inch TFT Bluetooth connectable screen controlled with a back-lit four-way toggle on the left grip. Those premium rear shocks are also included, as is keyless operation for ignition, fuel filler and luggage compartment. It’s not lavish or luxurious but it’s comparable to the Yamaha NMAX 125 Tech MAX and, if you do want more, you can always upgrade to a Forza 125 instead.

The PCX125 does what it says on the tin, was already one of the very best in its class and is now even better with these 2025 updates. There is one caveat, that being its Yamaha NMAX 125 has also been updated for 2025 and still has the option of a cheaper base model as well as the fancier Tech MAX that competes with the Honda on tech. To be fair you can’t far wrong with either!