Honda PCX125: first stop-start two-wheeler ( not in India)

Honda’s PCX125 is the first two-wheeler with fuel-saving stop-start tech. Pull up to some lights and after three seconds of idling, the engine cuts out. A blinking orange light marked ‘stand by’ (like a DVD player) lets you know you’re in ‘idle stop’ mode. A twist of the throttle fires it back up again with next to no delay.

 Honda claims the system – which can be turned off via switch on the bars – improves fuel efficiency by up to 5%. On a scooter that claims 130mpg anyway, that’s hardly going to change the world, but whether you’re environmentally- or wallet-conscious it’s welcome.

At just 124kg wet it’s very easy to manoeuvre and the handling is stable and reassuring. Its liquid-cooled 4-stroke 125cc motor is good for 70mph on the clocks – though lack of wind protection from the low-slung bodywork limits comfort on the open road.

Keep it in town instead and the PCX excels. Its small dimensions and motorcycle-style chrome bars make it adept at filtering. As do the combined brakes, which are novice-friendly and balanced, if lacking a little bite.

Practicalities like an underseat storage bay big enough for a full-face lid, rider backrest and a decent-sized cubbyhole on the dash seem luxurious if you’re used to commuting with a full-size bike.

If you’re looking to help save the planet – or petrol – on the way to work, the £2,270 PCX is well worth a look.

THE FACTS
Honda PCX 125 - £2,270
Engine: 125cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke 2v single
Power: 11.1bhp
Torque: 8.5ftlb
Kerb weight: 124.4kg
Fuel capacity: 6.2litres