The question almost everyone who wants to buy a 125 cc scooter in Turkey asks at some point: PCX or NMAX? Both models have been the benchmark of the class for years, and since both are in the A1 class, B licence holders can ride them too by meeting the conditions. On paper they are very close to each other; but as of 2026 the price gap between them makes the decision more decisive than ever. In this comparison we put the technical data and list prices from the Pusulamoto catalogue side by side and explain which rider suits which.
\n| Model | cc | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | Weight (kg) | Seat (mm) | Tank (L) | Consumption (L/100 km) | Brakes | List price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda PCX 125 | 124 | 12.3 | 11.8 | 132 | 764 | 8.1 | 2.1 | ABS | 205,000 TL (Oct 2026) |
| Honda PCX 125 DLX | 124 | 12.3 | 11.7 | 134 | 763 | 8.1 | 2.1 | ABS | 199,000 TL (Sep 2026) |
| Yamaha NMAX 125 | 125 | 12.1 | 11.2 | 131 | 765 | 7.1 | 2.2 | ABS | 303,500 TL (Oct 2026) |
| Yamaha NMAX 125 Tech MAX | 125 | 12.1 | 11.2 | 132 | 770 | 7.1 | 2.2 | ABS | 321,000 TL (Oct 2026) |
The prices are the list prices in the catalogue; their dates are in the table. To see all the columns on one screen, you can use the PCX 125 and NMAX 125 comparison page.
\nThe PCX produces 12.3 hp and 11.8 Nm from 124 cc, the NMAX 12.1 hp and 11.2 Nm from 125 cc. The difference is too small to be felt when riding; both keep up with city traffic comfortably and reach the legal speed limits on ring roads. The weights are also very close: the PCX is 132 kg, the NMAX 131 kg. So the question \"which is faster\" has no practical answer. The decision comes down to other criteria.
\nAccording to the catalogue data, the PCX consumes 2.1 L/100 km and the NMAX 2.2 L/100 km. The difference is small, but the tank difference is large: the PCX has 8.1 litres, the NMAX 7.1 litres. With these figures, a rough calculation gives the PCX about 385 km on a tank and the NMAX about 320 km. In real life these numbers change with riding style, load and traffic; but for someone who would rather stop at a petrol station every ten days than every week, the PCX's advantage is concrete.
\nIf you want to see the annual fuel cost for your own mileage, enter your daily distance in the cost calculator; you will see that the difference between the two models stays at the level of a few hundred lira a year.
\nThe Honda PCX 125 is 205,000 TL (October 2026 list price), the Yamaha NMAX 125 303,500 TL (October 2026 list price). So there is a difference of about 98,500 TL between the standard versions. The catalogue also shows a Honda PCX 125 DLX: 199,000 TL (September 2026 list price). The higher version of the NMAX, the Yamaha NMAX 125 Tech MAX, is 321,000 TL (October 2026 list price).
\nThat difference is more than enough to buy a PCX plus a quality full-face helmet, a four-season jacket, gloves, a top case and a sturdy lock. If budget matters to you, the decision is largely made here.
\nThe seat heights are almost the same: the PCX 764 mm, the NMAX 765 mm (Tech MAX 770 mm). On both, an average-height rider puts their feet flat on the ground when stopped. According to Honda's official technical page, the PCX has 110/70-14 tyres at the front and 130/70-13 at the rear and a 220 mm disc at both front and rear; the ABS is single-channel. Since the NMAX's equipment details vary by version, we recommend confirming them at the dealer.
\nIn general character, the PCX is calmer and more comfort-oriented, while the NMAX has a sportier stance. You will understand this difference best on a test ride: try to test both models on the same day, on the same route.
\nBoth brands have a wide service network in Turkey and both models are sought-after scooters on the used market. In terms of ease of resale, both are safe choices. We recommend getting the periodic maintenance intervals and their cost from the dealer in writing before you buy. If you are looking at used ones, be sure to follow our used-purchase checklist; on scooters, variator belt and bearing noises are especially important.
\nBoth models are in the 100–250 cc annual motor vehicle tax (MTV) bracket. In the 2026 tariff, the annual MTV is 1,069 TL for a motorcycle aged 1–3 years and 799 TL for 4–6 years; it is paid in two equal instalments in January and July. On a newly registered motorcycle the first inspection is at the end of the 3rd year, then every two years; the 2026 motorcycle inspection fee is 1,674 TL. Compulsory traffic insurance varies by province and no-claims step rather than by model. In short, there is no meaningful difference in annual fixed costs between the PCX and NMAX; the difference arises in the purchase price and in the accessory spending you do afterwards. For a detailed table, see the cost page, and for the fines under the helmet and equipment rules, the licence and rules section.
\n| Situation | Our recommendation |
|---|---|
| Budget first, daily commuting | Honda PCX 125 |
| Long range, fewer petrol stops | Honda PCX 125 |
| Sporty look and riding feel | Yamaha NMAX 125 |
| I want extra equipment, price is secondary | Yamaha NMAX 125 Tech MAX |
If the price of the PCX and NMAX is beyond your budget, there are other options with ABS in the same class: the SYM JET X 125 ABS/TCS (188,000 TL (February 2026 list price)), the Kymco Sky Town 125 ABS (with top box) (209,000 TL (October 2026 list price)) and the Voge SR1 (177,900 TL (October 2026 list price)). For those who want big wheels, the Honda SH125i (245,000 TL (October 2026 list price)) is a good alternative. For a wider list, see the A1 licence scooter list, the cheapest scooters and the value-for-money scooters pages. If you want to search by your own criteria, the motorcycle finder is ready.
\nIn terms of engine, weight and seat height, the PCX 125 and NMAX 125 are almost twins. The PCX is the rational choice with its larger tank, slightly lower consumption and, as of October 2026, a list price about 98 thousand TL lower. The NMAX appeals to those who find its sporty character and design worth paying the difference for. If budget is decisive for you, the PCX; if design and feel come first, the NMAX; in either case, test both before you decide.
\nAccording to the catalogue data, the PCX consumes 2.1 and the NMAX 2.2 L/100 km. The difference is small; the real range difference comes from the PCX's tank being 1 litre larger.
Both are in the A1 class. If you have held a B licence for at least 2 years and complete the motorcycle training and practical test at an MEB school, you can ride them for personal use.
The PCX has 12.3 hp, the NMAX 12.1 hp. It is not a difference you will feel when riding.
Both are sought-after models on the used market. Depreciation depends more on service history, mileage and accident history.
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