Skip to main content
Bike Comparisons

Honda PCX 160 vs Yamaha NMAX 155: Best Maxi Scooter for Bali Touring?

Head-to-head comparison of Indonesia’s top 150cc+ maxi scooters across storage capacity, seat comfort, fuel efficiency, and mountain power.

Honda PCX 160 vs Yamaha NMAX 155: Best Maxi Scooter for Bali Touring?
account_circle Mara Fleet Evaluation Team
schedule 9 min read July 12, 2026

"Head-to-head comparison of Indonesia’s top 150cc+ maxi scooters across storage capacity, seat comfort, fuel efficiency, and mountain power."

compare_arrows Head-to-Head Specification Matrix: PCX 160 vs NMAX 155

Feature Honda PCX 160 Yamaha NMAX 155
Engine Displacement156.9cc eSP+ 4-Valve155.1cc Blue Core VVA
Max Horsepower16.0 HP @ 8,500 RPM15.1 HP @ 8,000 RPM
Under-Seat Storage30 Liters (Full-Face Helmet + Bag)24 Liters (1 Full-Face Helmet)
Fuel Tank Capacity8.1 Liters (~340 km range)7.1 Liters (~280 km range)
Braking & TractionSingle-Channel ABS + HSTC ControlDual-Channel ABS + Traction Control
Best ForPlush Long Touring & Max StorageSporty Hill Acceleration & Dual ABS

1. Performance & Engine Power Comparison

Both the Honda PCX 160 and Yamaha NMAX 155 represent the pinnacle of Indonesia's 150cc+ maxi-scooter class, but they deliver power in distinctly different ways:

  • Honda PCX 160: Features a smooth 156.9cc 4-valve eSP+ engine that excels in linear, buttery acceleration. It maintains effortless cruising speeds along coastal highways with minimal engine vibration.
  • Yamaha NMAX 155: Utilizes Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology that kicks in at 6,000 RPM, giving you a noticeable surge of mid-range torque when climbing steep mountain grades or passing slow trucks.

2. Ergonomics, Seating Comfort & Passengers

When carrying a passenger or spending 2+ hours in the saddle, seating ergonomics make a major difference:

  • PCX 160 Comfort: Offers a plush, armchair-like seat with extended feet-forward floorboards that let taller riders stretch out completely.
  • NMAX 155 Comfort: Features a slightly firmer, sportier saddle with broader passenger grab handles that provide extra security for 2-up riding.

3. Under-Seat Storage Trunk & Utility

If you carry beach towels, backpacks, or rain suits, storage is critical. The PCX 160 leads with a massive 30-liter under-seat compartment that easily swallows a full-face helmet plus a daypack. The NMAX 155 offers a 24-liter trunk that accommodates one full-face helmet inverted. Both models feature glove boxes with integrated USB phone charging ports for GPS navigation.

4. Trip Suggestions: Which Scooter Should You Rent?

🏖️ Choose the Honda PCX 160 If:

  • • You plan multi-day island road trips (e.g. Nusa Dua to Amed or Lovina).
  • • You require maximum under-seat trunk space for cameras and daypacks.
  • • You prefer a ultra-smooth, quiet ride with soft suspension.

⛰️ Choose the Yamaha NMAX 155 If:

  • • You plan steep highland mountain rides up Kintamani or Bedugul volcanoes.
  • • You want dual-channel ABS brakes for aggressive wet-weather stopping power.
  • • You prefer responsive VVA throttle kick for swift overtaking maneuvers.

💡 Local Riding & Fleet Tips

Always fill both 150cc+ maxi scooters with Pertamax 92 octane fuel for peak engine responsiveness. Both models are available with free villa delivery from our Nusa Dua Hub!

Safety & Route Recommendations

When driving along Bali's coastal or mountain roads, ensure your scooter is in top technical condition with properly pressurized tires and working dual brakes. We recommend reserving an executive scooter (such as the Honda PCX 160 or Yamaha NMAX 155) for longer island day trips.

lightbulb Insider Tip

Always carry a small stash of 500,000 - 1,000,000 IDR cash for local temple parking fees and local Pertamina fuel stops along rural routes.

Share This Guide
Recommended Bikes

Best Scooters for This Route

Hand-picked motorcycles ideal for this travel route.

Honda PCX 160
Honda PCX 160 Rp 150.000/day
View
Yamaha NMAX 155
Yamaha NMAX 155 Rp 150.000/day
View
The Ultimate Canggu to Ubud Scooter Route: Secret Shortcuts & Scenic Stops
Routes & Travel

The Ultimate Canggu to Ubud Scooter Route: Secret Shortcuts & Scenic Stops

Discover quiet backroad shortcuts, emerald rice terraces, and secret coffee plantations between Canggu and Ubud while avoiding main highway truck traffic.

Uluwatu Coastal Cliff Loop: 5 Secret Surfing Beaches on a Scooter
Routes & Travel

Uluwatu Coastal Cliff Loop: 5 Secret Surfing Beaches on a Scooter

Explore the limestone cliff roads of Balangan, Bingin, Thomas Beach, Green Bowl, and Nyang Nyang with surfboard rack safety setups.

Mount Batur Sunrise Scooter Trip: Self-Ride Guide, Parking & Gear Checklist
Routes & Travel

Mount Batur Sunrise Scooter Trip: Self-Ride Guide, Parking & Gear Checklist

Survive 12°C morning temperatures, pitch-black mountain passes, and 2,000m elevation climbs on your way to Kintamani sunrise.

chat