Development of 2018 (2019 in the US) PCX and PCX HYBRID

[zroger73]

Honda published the attached research paper a few months ago revealing some details on the all-new fourth-generation PCX including changes to the frame, wheels, and engine along with a description of the hybrid model (not available in the US). While the new model may appear similar at first glance to the old model, there are significant differences.

I own both a 2018 (3rd gen) and 2019 (4th gen) PCX 150. After putting several hundred miles on each over a couple of months, I've observed that:

1. The 2019's overall acceleration feels about the same.
2. The 2019's top speed is about 5 MPH faster.
3. The 2019 is noticeably more stable and handles as if it's larger and heavier even though it's not.
4. The 2019's wider tires appear more substantial and proportional than the 2018's narrower tires.

Naturally, I prefer the new 2019, but having paid almost half as much for a slightly used 2018 makes it a better bargain.

[Jge64]

I agree with all your observations. Some comments:

number one: actually a question, are the variator weights the same on an 18 and 19?
number two: I wonder if the actual variator has changed, to let the belt go out a little bit more. I know on many sites the PCX get some bad press compared to the Smax re top end. ( Smax WOT gets you in the 70’s).
Number three : I assume this is what the frame change does?
Number four: not sure- honda site shows same tires for 18 and 19?

[zroger73]

1. I don't know if the weight of the rollers is different, but the part number is. 22123-K01-900 ($21.95) for 2015-2018 and 22123-KWN-780 ($10.30) for 2019.

2. The part numbers for the fixed and movable drive faces are also different. Considering this and the above, I suspect some slight differences in the variator.

3. I suspect a combination of frame rigidity and larger tires explains the added stability.

4. Actually, according to Honda's website the tire sizes are:

2018
90/90-14 Front
100/90-14 Rear
https://powersports.honda.com/2018/pcx/ ... tions.aspx

2019
100/80-14 Front
120/70-14 Rear
https://powersports.honda.com/2019/pcx/ ... tions.aspx

[alx123]

The 2019' variator is different and the bigger tires really affect the feel of the scoot.