Honda PCX 150 Top Speed: An In-Depth Look
Are you considering the Honda PCX 150 scooter but want to know more about its top speed capabilities? This in-depth guide has all the details you need about the PCX 150’s top speed, performance, and how it compares to other scooters on the market. We’ll cover real-world tests, owner reviews, factors affecting top speed, and potential modifications to squeeze out some extra mph.
Highlights of the Honda PCX 150
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of top speeds, let’s quickly go over what makes the PCX 150 such a popular scooter choice:
- Large 153cc liquid-cooled engine for good power
- Spacious underseat storage to fit a full-face helmet
- Well-known Honda reputation for reliability
- Smooth automatic V-Matic transmission
- Capable of highway speeds (more on that shortly)
- Good fuel efficiency for affordable commuting
The PCX hits a nice sweet spot of being powerful and practical enough for highway use while still being compact and easy to operate around town.
What is the Top Speed of the Honda PCX 150?
According to Honda, the PCX 150 has a claimed top speed of 73 mph (118 km/h).
However, real-world testing from multiple reviews shows the actual top speed you can expect is a bit lower – typically in the 65-68 mph (105-109 km/h) range.
There are a few reasons for the slight variance:
- Official top speeds are measured under strict, controlled conditions
- Top speed depends on factors like rider weight, wind, incline, etc.
- The engine may be electronically-limited in production models
Most owners report being able easily maintain 55-60 mph on level ground once reaching top speed. So while a 70+ mph top speed is possible, you’ll likelymax out a few mph lower in real-world riding.
Acceleration and Performance
Raw acceleration gives us more insight into the PCX 150’s actual performance beyond just the peak top speed number. Reviews have clocked the scooter’s 0-60 mph time in the 12-14 second range.
Its 1/4 mile time looks to be in the 18-21 second range at around 65-68 mph.
These numbers aren’t going to blow anyone’s mind, but they’re very respectable for a 150cc scooter designed more for commuting than all-out speed. The liquid-cooled 14 hp engine provides a good balance of zippy acceleration and open road cruising ability.
Honda PCX 150 Specs
To better understand what’s behind the PCX 150’s performance, let’s look at some key specs:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 153cc Liquid-Cooled Single-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 14 hp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 10.8 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | Automatic V-Matic Belt Drive |
| Front Suspension | 31mm Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shock |
| Front Brakes | 220mm Disc with ABS |
| Rear Brakes | 130mm Drum |
| Curb Weight | 286 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.1 gallons |
While the engine specs look modest on paper, the liquid-cooling, fuel-injection, and low curb weight give it a nice power-to-weight ratio for good acceleration. The automatic transmission keeps things simple too.
Factors That Impact the Top Speed
Of course, multiple variables affect how close you can get to that claimed 73 mph top speed maximum in real-world riding. Here are some key factors:
Weight and Aerodynamics – Adding a passenger or lots of cargo will increase weight and wind resistance, sapping top speed. The PCX is fairly lightweight though.
Gearing and RPM Limits – The transmission gearing and any electronic RPM limiter can restrict top speed. Owners speculate the PCX is rev-limited in the 7,000-8,000 rpm range.
Terrain and Riding Conditions – Top speeds are easier achieved on flat, straight roads in ideal conditions. Hills, wind, and heavy traffic will all negatively impact speed.
Owner Reviews on Top Speed
But what are actual PCX 150 owners saying about its real-world top speed performance? Here are a few representative quotes:
“I can easily cruise at 60 mph all day on the highway. Getting up to those top speeds of 65-68 mph takes a little time though.”
“It will max out around 65 mph on a flat road. Up hills it really struggles to maintain 55 mph or higher though.”
“Don’t expect to go much faster than 70 mph – there’s a hard rev limiter that cuts power after that.”
“For a 150cc scooter, the top speed is impressive and punchy acceleration. But it’s definitely not a speed demon by any means.”
The overall owner consensus is that 60-65 mph is easily attainable, while top speeds in the high 60s mph are possible but you’ll be maxing out the engine. Anything over 70 mph seems very difficult to achieve and maintain.
How the PCX 150 Compares to Competitors
To give that top speed some more context, let’s see how the Honda PCX 150 stacks up against some key rivals in the 150cc scooter class:
Yamaha XMAX 300 – Larger 292cc engine is significantly faster, topping out around 85-90 mph.
Suzuki Burgman 200 – The 200cc power advantage gives it a 70-75 mph top speed edge.
Vespa Sprint 150 – Similar performance to the PCX, maxing out around 65-68 mph as well.
Kymco Super 8 150X – Top speed is a few mph lower in the low 60s mph.
SYM Cruise 200 – With this on tap, this can hit an 80+ mph top speed.
The PCX 150’s top speed positions it as solidly mid-pack to slightly above average for its 150cc displacement class. Larger engines in the 200-300cc range will be appreciably faster, while the PCX has an edge over lower displacement rivals.
Modifications to Increase Top Speed
For many owners, the PCX 150’s stock top speed is more than sufficient. But if you want to eke out some extra mph for highway passing power or just for fun, there are some popular modifications:
Exhaust – An aftermarket slip-on exhaust can free up a bit more power ($300-600).
Air Intake – Higher flowing air filters or re-jetting the carburetor boosts top end ($100-300).
Final Drive – Changing the transmission gearing by altering final drive sprocket sizes ($50-300).
ECU Flash – A piggyback power commander or ECU re-flash optimizes fueling ($100-400).
Big Bore Kit – Installing a larger cylinder and/or high-compression piston really wakes it up ($500+).
Most of these are bolt-on mods, but you’ll void the factory warranty. Big bore kits also have the added complexity of engine teardown/rebuild.
Pros and Cons of the PCX 150
To summarize our analysis of the Honda PCX 150’s performance, let’s look at some key pros and cons:
Pros:
- Adequate 65-68 mph top speed for highway commuting
- Zippy acceleration around town
- Good fuel efficiency
- Honda reliability and build quality
- Large underseat storage
Cons:
- Top speed maxes out in the high 60s mph
- Not ideal for sustained 70+ mph highway cruising
- So-so suspension can be unhappy over bigger bumps
- Appetite for speed will be left wanting
Overall, the PCX hits a nice sweet spot of top speed and acceleration while maintaining practicality and affordability. But it’s no outright speed demon either.
Top Alternatives to the PCX 150
If the PCX 150’s performance doesn’t quite fit your needs, here are some potential alternative scooters to consider:
Yamaha XMAX (292cc) – Much more powerful 292cc engine with 80+ mph top speeds.
Suzuki Burgman 200 (200cc) – A blend of more top speed but slightly less convenience/storage.
SYM Cruise 200 (171.2cc) – Serious top end power while still remaining fairly compact.
Honda ADV 150 (149cc) – A beefier adventure-style bodywork if you want more wind protection and storage but similar performance to the PCX.
Pricing and Availability
For 2024, the Honda PCX 150 has a $4,249 MSRP in the United States. However, with dealer fees, taxes, and other extras, you’re typically looking at an out-the-door price in the $5,000-5,500 range.
The 2024 models should be arriving at U.S. Honda dealerships in the late Spring/early Summer of 2024. Availability can be limited initially, so it’s best to get on waiting lists sooner than later if you want a specific color or need the scooter urgently.
In terms of pricing, the PCX slots in very competitively and is one of the more affordable mid-sized scooter options from the Japanese Big Four manufacturers. It undercuts the MSRPs of models like the Yamaha XMAX while offering a bit more performance than budget-oriented options like the Honda Metropolitan.
Who Should/Shouldn’t Buy the PCX 150?
With all the information we’ve covered about the Honda PCX 150’s performance, top speed, and pros/cons – who is this scooter ideally suited for?
The PCX 150 makes an excellent choice for:
- Urban commuters and city dwellers
- Students looking for affordable, efficient transportation
- Shorter highway stints and errand running
- Those who value Honda reliability and practicality
However, the PCX may not be the best fit if:
- You need to sustain very high speeds (70+ mph) for extended periods
- You ride primarily on the highway with no city sections
- You want a more engaging hands-on riding experience
- You have very aggressive acceleration requirements
The PCX really shines as an affordable, efficient runabout that can split traffic but also have reasonable top-end performance for highway stints when needed. Its balance of user-friendliness and performance caters well to the typical commuter/errand runner with city and highway sections in their routine.
Common Problems and Fixes
No vehicle is perfect, and the PCX 150 does have a few common issues and complaints that pop up from some owners:
Mushy Brakes – The front disc brake can feel a bit too spongy/soft for some riders’ liking. Upgrading brake lines or looking into a brake caliper rebuild may help firm things up.
Non-Adjustable Suspension – Both the front and rear suspension rates are non-adjustable, leading to potential bottoming out or packing down over time. Upgrading to aftermarket adjustable shocks is a potential solution.
CVT Issues – Some report issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) like slipping, stuttering, or even complete failure. Flushing the CVT fluid can help extend life, or it may require a rebuild/replacement.
These aren’t necessarily widespread, frequent issues – but they do seem to pop up more often than other problems based on owner reports and forums.
FAQs About the Honda PCX 150
To cover any remaining questions, let’s quickly go over some frequently asked questions about the PCX 150:
Does the PCX 150 have enough power for highway riding?
Yes, the 14hp engine provides adequate acceleration to attain and maintain highway speeds in the 60-65 mph range. However, it struggles to go much faster for extended periods.
How far can the PCX 150 go on one tank of gas?
With a 2.1 gallon fuel tank and excellent fuel efficiency ratings (60-70+ mpg), you can expect a range of 120-150 miles from a full tank depending on conditions.
Can the PCX 150 have a passenger?
Technically yes, as it has a long flat seat to accommodate a rider. But with only 14hp on tap, acceleration and top speed will be affected more than larger scooters.
Is the PCX 150 good for taller riders?
At around 30 inches, the seat height is on the higher side compared to many scooters. This makes it manageable for taller inseam lengths.
How fast is the PCX 150 for the 1/4 mile?
Most tests show the PCX running 1/4 mile ETs in the 18-21 second range at around 65-70 mph trap speeds.
The FAQs cover some of the most common inquiries, but as always – your best resource is to test ride the PCX 150 yourself and see if it meets your specific needs and riding style.
Final Thoughts
After comprehensively examining the Honda PCX 150’s top speed, performance, specs, competitors, and more – here’s the key takeaway:
The PCX 150 has a very reasonable and usable top speed in the 65-68 mph range, making it well-suited for urban commuting duties with occasional highway jaunts when needed. While not a speed demon, it strikes an excellent balance of practicality, acceleration, efficiency, and highway-capability that few other scooters can match.
For the city-dwelling commuter or student, the PCX 150 is an excellent all-around scooter choice. It has enough grunt for highway ramps and straightaways without being overpowered or inefficient. And it packs lots of convenient storage for errand-running too.
Riders looking for a more dedicated high-speed tourer may want to look at larger cc options. But for those whose travel involves a mix of stop-and-go urban areas along with some highway stints – the PCX’s top speed performance really shines. It hits that sweet spot of balanced performance.
So if you’re in the market for an affordable, premium commuter scooter that can double as a weekend tourer when needed – the 2024 Honda PCX 150 belongs at the top of your consideration list. Just sample that Honda refinement and zippy acceleration around town for yourself!
