Honda Phils Preview the new 2021 PCX160

Earlier today,  Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI) invited vloggers and media friends to their Honda Safety Driving  Center (HSDC) to present their new Honda PCX 160 ahead of its virtual public launch via social media later in the evening.

Before the product viewing and test ride,  HPI President Mr. Susumu Mitsuishi  personally addressed the  group.

“Thank you for attending this event. In 2019 we launched many new models but unfortunately COVID happened so we could not invite you to more events. But today, we will restart our events following safety protocols. PCX means Personal Comfort Experience. We want the rider to experience safety and comfort. In Honda,  the internal code of the original PCX was WW150 or “World Wide Scooter“. Honda developed it for the global market from the start targetted for the markets in Europe, America and Asia. I hope that his new PCX will be a best seller in Philippine also like the rest of the world,” expressed Mr. Mitsuishi. 

Launched late last year in the global market, the new PCX design is an evolution of the previous model, maintaining its visual identity but with sharper features.

While the seat height remains at the same, the footboards now have a new, longer shape.  The underseat storage  now holds an impressive 30 liters, compared to the previous model’s 27.6 liters. 

The new PCX160’s engine not only has a bigger displacement but also has improved mechanicals. It is a new four-valve “eSP+ or Enhanced Smart Power Plus “engine, replacing the line’s previous two-valve “eSP” engine. Honda increased the size of the intake and throttle body diameter for improved efficiency, while the internal structure of the exhaust was optimized with a new catalyst design. Honda also added a hydraulic cam chain tensioner, claiming reduced friction, noise and vibration.

The  new 4 Valve, Single Overhead Cam, Liquid Cooled, single-cylinder engine has a 60.0 mm bore and a 55.5 mm stroke  for a displacement of 157cc , while the compression ratio increased to 12.0:1. Honda claims a maximum output of 15.8 hp or 11.8kW at 8,500 rpm and 11.1 lb-ft. at 6,500 rpm. It is also equipped with Idling Stop System (ISS) which helps delivers 45.1 kms/liter of fuel consumption.

The PCX160 has a new frame with a simplified structure, maintaining rigidity balance while being lighter.

The front wheel maintains the 14-inch diameter, but now has  a wider 110/70-14 tires. At the rear, the new PCX has a 13-inch wheel with a wider 130/70 tire.

The suspension system remains similar to the previous models, with a telescopic fork and twin rear shocks. It is equiped with 220mm discs front and back, with a single-channel ABS on just the front wheel.

Honda also equipped the new  PCX with a traction control system called  HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) that adjusts the engine’s torque output to suppress rear wheel slip using data from speed sensors mounted on both wheels.

Other highlights include a new rubber handlebar mount, new LCD display, a front storage area with a USB port and a remote Smart Key with Anti Theft Alarm and Answerback System.

We rode it around HSDC for the first time and we were impressed by its comfort, refinement and build quality.

The new wider tires seems to contribute to improved handling and traction in the corners which ultimately translates to rider confidence.

We have no comparison with the old model but the new 4 valve engine pulls smooth and strong, very refined!  Based on Honda’s info, peak torque and power values are not only higher, but are also smoother accross the entire rev range.

The new Honda PCX160 will have two variants. The Combi Brake (CBS) variant priced at  P115,900  and the ABS + HSTC variant priced at P133,900.

Mr. Hervic Villa Honda MC Planning  Department Manager said , ” The new PCX 2021 will be available in May 2021 and dealers are now accepting reservations. The market acceptance of this new model worldwide is overwhelming and we are confident that it will be the same in this market. So reserve your units now.”

For more detailed specifications and color variants as well as details on how to reserve, visit Honda Philippines Facebook Page and website.

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