TFT dash on a £3,700 commuter scooter
PCX-beating
The NMAX 125's 4.2-inch TFT dashboard with smartphone connectivity is genuinely PCX-beating tech. PCX125 still uses an LCD. NMAX shows turn-by-turn directions, call/text alerts, weather. Whether you want any of that on a commuter scooter is taste; the option is yours.
Traction control on a 12bhp scooter
Yamaha first
Yamaha was the first to put traction control on a 125cc commuter scooter. PCX125 finally added HSTC for 2024. On a 12bhp scooter it's almost meaningless on dry tarmac — but on wet manhole covers and painted lines, it's the difference between a scary moment and a non-event. London commuters in November will appreciate it.
VVA variable valve
Borrowed from R125
Yamaha brought their VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) tech from the R125 sport-bike to the NMAX in 2021. Two cam profiles, switching at ~6,000rpm — gives the NMAX better low-speed pull and more top-end without the complexity of variable cam timing. PCX uses a simpler 4-valve fixed cam.
Build quality vs PCX
PCX still ahead
Side-by-side, the NMAX feels marginally less polished — bodywork gaps, switch action, lever feel. Honda's commuter manufacturing edge is real. But the NMAX has closed the gap dramatically over 10 years.
Underseat space
PCX wins
23L underseat storage on the NMAX vs 30L on the PCX. If you ride a modern XL full-face helmet (Shoei NXR2, Arai Quantic), neither will fit; if you ride a medium open-face or compact full-face, the PCX is more flexible. NMAX wins on tech, PCX wins on practical storage.
Real-world fuel economy
120-140mpg
Yamaha quotes 124mpg WMTC. Real-world owners report 120-140mpg in mixed commuting. 7.1L tank gives 200-220 mile range. Marginally less efficient than PCX125, marginally more sporty in feel.
Insurance and servicing
Identical to PCX
Insurance group 5, same as PCX125. Service intervals 6,000 miles (PCX 2,500 miles) — meaning the NMAX is actually CHEAPER to service over time despite the higher purchase price. This is the hidden cost: PCX has more frequent (cheaper individually) services, NMAX has less frequent (more comprehensive) services. Wash, rinse, similar.
