NMAX vs PCX vs Vario: which scooter to buy in Bali
5 min ·
Who each scooter is for
The Yamaha NMAX (155 cc) is the expat favourite: tall seat, big wheels, stable at speed on the bypass and comfortable with a passenger. The Honda PCX (160 cc) is smoother and more economical, with a huge under-seat compartment, and is the choice for long daily rides. The Honda Vario (125 or 160 cc) is lighter, cheaper to buy and to fix, and the easiest to park in Canggu or Seminyak traffic.
If you ride mostly in town, the Vario 125 is enough. If you commute Canggu–Ubud or ride two-up, the NMAX or PCX is worth the extra money.
What they cost second-hand
Used prices depend on the year and the odometer far more than on the brand. As a rule of thumb, a Vario 125 from the last few years sits at the lower end of the scooter market, a PCX or NMAX from the same years about a third higher, and the ABS or "Connected" versions of the NMAX at the top. Check the live median and typical range on our market price page before negotiating: the figures are recalculated from every scooter listed on BaliMarket.
A price far below the median usually means an expired tax (pajak), missing documents or a rental fleet bike with high mileage.
Checks before you pay
Ask for the original STNK and BPKB and compare the frame and engine numbers with the documents. Check the tax date on the STNK: an overdue tax costs money and a trip to the Samsat office. Look at tyres, brake pads, the CVT belt noise and whether the electric starter works instantly.
Test ride it, meet in a public place during the day, and never send a deposit before seeing the bike. Once agreed, write a simple sales receipt (kwitansi) with both ID numbers.