CFMOTO 125/150 "E Charm" (2008-2022) Review: Urban Mobility Redefined
Introduction
The CFMOTO E-Charm series has quietly carved its niche as a pragmatic urban companion since its debut in 2008. Spanning over a decade with minimal changes, the 125cc and 150cc variants have become staples for riders seeking reliability in crowded cityscapes. As a journalist who recently spent a week weaving through traffic on a 2020 E-Charm 150, I’m here to unpack why this scooter deserves a second look – and how it holds up against its flashier competitors.
Design & Styling: Understated Practicality
The E-Charm’s design language screams "function-first" without feeling utilitarian. The teardrop-shaped bodywork features clean lines that age gracefully, avoiding the overstyled edges of some modern scooters. Available in muted tones like Pearl White and Dark Gray (with occasional pops of Dark Red), it’s a canvas that blends into both corporate parking lots and weekend café stops.
At 795mm (31.3"), the seat height welcomes riders of all statures. My 170cm frame found the ergonomics Goldilocks-just-right – knees bent comfortably, feet flat at stops. The 138kg (304 lbs) dry weight becomes deceptive once moving; it feels planted at speed yet manageable when paddling through tight spaces.
The underseat storage deserves applause. While CFMOTO doesn’t quote exact liters, it swallowed a full-face helmet plus a compact rain suit – a rarity in sub-150cc scooters. The 8L (2.1-gallon) tank hides neatly beneath the floorboard, maintaining the low center of gravity.
Performance: Small Displacement, Big Surprises
E-Charm 125: The Efficiency Play
The 124.6cc liquid-cooled SOHC engine (52x57.8mm bore/stroke) delivers 8.7hp @ 8500rpm – numbers that underwhelm on paper but shine in practice. Throttle response via EFI is crisp, with none of the carbureted flat spots common in this segment.
During mixed riding, the 125 maintained 45-55 km/h (28-34 mph) effortlessly, peaking at 90 km/h (56 mph) downhill. What impresses is the 8Nm torque curve – it pulls cleanly from 30 km/h in traffic without downshifting (not that you could – it’s a CVT!). Fuel efficiency hovered around 40 km/L (94 mpg), making it a wallet-friendly commuter.
E-Charm 150: The Sweet Spot
Bumping displacement to 152cc (58x57.8mm) unlocks 12hp and 10Nm – a 38% power jump over the 125. The difference is visceral. Merging onto 70 km/h (43 mph) arterials felt secure, with enough reserve to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) briefly.
Curiously, CFMOTO offered both carbureted and EFI 150cc variants. The fuel-injected model (CF150T-5i) proved superior in our tests, delivering smoother cold starts and 5% better mileage (≈37 km/L or 87 mpg). The carbureted version compensates with simpler maintenance – a tradeoff worth considering.
Handling & Comfort: City-Slicker DNA
The 1320mm (52") wheelbase strikes a perfect balance between agility and stability. Tipping into corners feels natural, aided by the 16-inch wheels that roll over potholes more gracefully than smaller 12-14” setups.
Suspension tuning leans comfortward. The 33mm telescopic forks and cantilever rear absorbed broken pavement admirably, though aggressive riders might crave more damping on rebound. Braking is where the E-Charm punches above its class – the 240mm front disc (with a competent but non-branded caliper) provided confident stops, needing just two fingers. Combined with the 220mm rear disc, panic stops from 50 km/h felt drama-free.
Technology & Features: No Frills, No Failures
The LCD dash in later models (post-2016) deserves mention. Beyond the standard speedo/odo/fuel gauge, it includes a real-time mileage calculator – perfect for hypermilers. The halogen headlight performs adequately, though we’d recommend MOTOPARTS.store’s LED upgrade for night riders.
Storage solutions shine here: dual front hooks held a 10kg grocery bag securely, while the optional top case (compatible with Givi mounting plates) expands cargo capacity for delivery gigs.
Competition: Where the E-Charm Stands
Honda PCX 125/150
The gold standard. Honda’s 125cc makes similar power but adds ABS and idle-stop tech. However, the PCX costs ≈30% more new. For budget-conscious buyers, the E-Charm offers 85% of the experience at 60% the price.
Yamaha NMAX 155
With 15hp and dual-channel ABS, Yamaha’s offering is sportier. But its shorter seat and higher price target a different demographic. The E-Charm counters with better underseat storage and lower seat height.
Kymco Like 150
A styling rival with retro flair. Kymco matches the E-Charm’s specs but trails in dealer networks. CFMOTO’s growing parts ecosystem (including our MOTOPARTS.store catalog) gives it an edge in long-term ownership.
Suzuki Address 110
Smaller and lighter, the Address wins in fuel economy (55 km/L) but feels anemic above 60 km/h. The E-Charm 125 splits the difference – more power while still sipping fuel.
Maintenance: Keeping the Charm Alive
1. Belt & Rollers:
The CVT belt (JISCO 23100-KYMN-900) needs replacement every 12,000 km. Symptoms of wear include sluggish acceleration and high RPMs without speed gain. Upgrade to a Kevlar-reinforced belt for longer life.
2. Coolant System:
Liquid cooling requires annual coolant flushes. Use ethylene glycol-based mixes (50/50 with distilled water) and check the radiator fins for debris clogging.
3. Valve Adjustments:
Every 6,000 km, check valve clearances (0.08mm intake/exhaust). Easier than most scooters thanks to the single-cylinder layout.
4. Tyre Upgrades:
The stock CST tyres are adequate but consider Michelin City Grip 2s for wet weather confidence. Run 29 PSI (2 bar) front/33 PSI (2.3 bar) rear.
5. Carburetor TLC (150cc non-EFI):
Clean the pilot jet every 5,000 km using MOTOPARTS.store’s ultrasonic kit. Symptoms of clogging include rough idling and poor cold starts.
Conclusion: The Underdog’s Appeal
The E-Charm won’t set forums ablaze with specs, but it nails the scooter essentials – simplicity, efficiency, and durability. For new riders, it’s a forgiving first step. For veterans, it’s a low-drama workhorse.
CFMOTO’s real triumph is in the details: that massive underseat compartment, the accessible seat height, and a parts ecosystem that’s matured impressively. While competitors chase tech bragging rights, the E-Charm remains focused on being the scooter you forget to worry about – and that’s the highest praise in this category.
Ready to personalize your E-Charm? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of performance upgrades, storage solutions, and maintenance kits tailored for CFMOTO’s urban warrior.
