• New name for 2021 for Honda’s fun-focussed mini-bike – the MSX125 Grom
• 2kW from new 2021 engine, now with 5 speed gearbox
• New design with quick-release bodywork that promotes adaptability and customisation

The Honda MSX125 returns for 2021 with a new name – the MSX125 Grom – a radical new look and a new engine that underpins its easy-to-use, fun and functional nature.

On sale in Europe as the MSX125 since 2013, Honda’s ultra-fun minibike follows a tradition started in the 60s with the Monkey and continued through other much-loved machines such as the Dax and Ape up to the present day. For 2021, the new version adds the ‘Grom’ name used elsewhere across the world (becoming the ‘MSX125 Grom’) for the mini-bike which has been an international hit with young riders, racking up sales of over 750,000 units. As a term used since the 1960s to describe young surfers, ‘Grom’ is the perfect moniker for a mini-bike with a fun, counter-culture spirit.

The new 7.2kW air-cooled engine blends accessible roll-on performance with useful all-round ability and now features a 5^th gear for out of town riding; it is matched to a responsive, easy-to-ride chassis equipped with 31mm USD forks, 12in wheels and disc brakes front and rear. The ABS system operates through an IMU. Seat height is a welcoming 761mm, and the redesigned sharp and compact LCD meter now features a rev-counter and gear position indicator.

The biggest change for 2021 is the radical new look that brings a quirky, distinctive individuality from a new sleek LED headlight, pared-down seat unit and subframe, and super-compact side panels and tank covers. The gold forks and brake calipers and yellow rear suspension finish off the head-turning styling. Easy-to-change bodywork further promotes adaptability and customisation opportunities for Honda’s small bike with a big attitude.

Model updates: Honda’s everyday scooter has long offered high build quality and fantastic value for money; for the 2021 season it gains a complete style refresh, new instrument panel and Smart Key operation. A next-generation enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF) reduces kerb weight by 2kg and is matched to a redesigned, more fuel-efficient ‘enhanced Smart Power’ (eSP) engine, which retains its handy Idling Stop feature.

Contents:

1 Introduction

2 Model overview

3 Key features

4 Technical specifications

1. Introduction

The Vision 110, introduced to Europe in 2012, was created to offer reliable, fun mobility at an attractively low price. And, as a machine intended for daily use by a huge range of customers, qualities such as durability, dependability, safety and convenient usability were considered key priorities.

Thanks to its simple, reliable and efficient air-cooled, fuel-injected ‘enhanced Smart Power (eSP) engine’, stable chassis, the safety of Honda’s Combined Braking System (CBS) and extensive storage space, the Vision 110 has proved to be a smart and reassuring choice in the crowded entry-level scooter market. 

And it builds on a proud heritage. The first Honda scooter, the 1954 Juno K, featured a range of new technology and materials, and was followed four years later by the revolutionary four-stroke Super Cub. With more than 100 million manufactured worldwide, the Super Cub is the best-selling motor vehicle in history – and still going strong today.

Set against ever-increasing customer expectations, it’s time for a brand-new Vision 110. Still using the same base formula set by the outgoing design but even smarter, lighter and ever more useful.

 2. Model Overview

The Vision 110’s contemporary styling update is wrapped around a new, lighter enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF) and redesigned, more fuel-efficient enhanced Smart Power eSP) air-cooled engine.

New features include Smart Key operation of ignition and seat and a new LCD instrument panel. The 2021 Vision 110 will be available in the following four new colour options:

Pearl Jasmine White

Poseidon Black Metallic

Mat Galaxy Black Metallic

Candy Noble Red

 3. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Crisply redesigned body retains practicality of a flat floor
• Smart Key operation of ignition and new instrumentation

While it’s designed to be simple, easy transport, that does not mean the Vision 110 lacks a feeling of Honda quality and presence. For its 2021 makeover new styling stem to stern brings it bang up to date, and the common DNA with the rest of Honda’s scooter range is obvious. The updated look features a clear, dynamic character line with clean, elegant surfaces.

Like the iconic SH series, the Vision 110 has an upright posture and useful flat floor; it now also has plentiful under-seat storage volume, at 17.7L.

A Smart Key is also a welcome addition to the specification. Kept in a pocket, it controls both ignition and seat locking, adding genuine convenience in support of busy urban life. New instruments combine analogue speedometer with an LCD information panel. 

3.2 Engine

• New, more fuel efficient ‘enhanced Smart Power’ two-valve, air-cooled SOHC engine
• With Idling Stop, plus EURO5 compliance

The 109.5cc ‘enhanced Smart Power’ (eSP), two-valve air-cooled, fuel-injected SOHC powerplant is completely redesigned for 2021 and is light (weighing just 22kg) tough and efficient. It delivers a healthy 6.4kW@ 7,500rpm, with peak torque of 9.0Nm @ 5,750rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 47 x 63.1mm, with compression ratio of 10:1.

It’s very easy to use, with crisp throttle response perfect for the urban rider. And it sips fuel, with a 5% improvement in efficiency compared to the previous design. A range of over 260km is possible thanks to the ability to return approximately 54.5km/l (WMTC mode) and 4.9L under-seat fuel tank.

Low friction technologies, like the use of double-cog belts, are found throughout and incorporated into the engine’s architecture. The electronically controlled, brushless ACG starter is an integrated component mounted directly on the end of the crankshaft, serving as starter motor and alternator. It spins the engine directly, eliminating any noise from gear engagement or meshing.

Idling Stop automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle when the scooter is stationary and the brakes applied, and re-starts it instantly the throttle grip is twisted. It’s seamless in use thanks to ACG and the swing-back system that returns the crank to its position before air intake, and a decompression mechanism that negates cranking resistance from compression.

The Vision 110 engine is also now EURO5 compliant.

3.3 Chassis

• All-new, lighter enhanced Smart Architecture Frame
• 2kg weight removed overall
• 16-inch front, 14” rear wheel

An advanced, lightweight next-generation enhanced Smart Architecture Frame (eSAF) replaces the tubular steel underbone design of the previous model. Constructed from laser-welded pressed steel, with a carefully engineered rigidity balance, it offers good handling feel, with enhanced stability, ride comfort and durability – perfect for the variety of daily rigours the Vision 110 is designed to endure.

Rake is set at 26° 30’, with 71mm trail and wheelbase of 1,280mm. Kerb weight is 2kg lighter, at 100kg; the overall result is an outstandingly agile and user-friendly scooter for riders of varying experience and abilities.

Sturdy telescopic forks are matched with a compliant rear shock absorber. The cast-aluminium wheels are unchanged in design and mount 80/90-16 and 90/90-14 front and rear tyres.

Up front the 220mm hydraulic disc brake links to a rear 130mm drum via CBS, ensuring smooth and evenly distributed braking force at all times, including hard and emergency stops.

 4. Technical Specifications

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.

Honda’s pocket-sized funster gets a new name, plus retro-cool style update, with easily-removed body panels and new, EURO5-specification air-cooled engine with five-speed gearbox. Revised LCD dash includes rev-counter and gear position indicator.

Contents:

1 Introduction

2 Model overview

3 Key features

4 Technical specifications

1. Introduction

Easy to use, fun and functional, the original leisure motorcycle was defined by Honda in 1963 with the iconic, small-wheeled Monkey bike and carried on – redefined for each respective generation – with the Dax, Ape and the Monkey, itself reborn in 2018.

The formula has found resonance with the new breed of young riders. Known as ‘Generation Y’ in the USA, ‘Dek Neaw’ in Thailand and ‘Street-Kei’ in Japan, they have grown up in the borderless internet age, and share a culture, outlook and spirit that defies convention.

Instinctively drawn to motorcycling, they need their first two-wheeled transport to be exciting but not unduly challenging, with a design that sets them apart and a reasonable price tag. In 2013 Honda introduced the MSX125 (Mini Street X-treme 125) to cater specifically for such young riders.

A truly global product the MSX125 (known as the ‘Grom’ in Japan and USA) has been a hit across the world. In its first sales season the MSX125 joined the CBF125 in the ranks of Europe’s top 5 best-selling 125cc motorcycles. And, over the last few years, it has established itself as a firm favourite, whether used for simple urban transport or as a heavily customised style statement by its target market.

After 6 years of quiet success and several small styling evolutions, with an eye on the next wave of young riders, it’s time for a new MSX125. Or, to give it its new official European name, a new MSX125 Grom. Fully refreshed, with an even cooler direction of travel, it’s still Honda’s little machine with big dreams.

 2. Model Overview

Completely redesigned bodywork gives the MSX125 Grom a new design language; fresh and fun, it’s also easily removed ready for an owner’s creativity to get to work. The updated LCD dash also now includes a rev-counter and gear position indicator.

A new air-cooled engine maintains the usable performance of the MSX125 but adds an extra fifth gear. And the unchanged chassis offers the same small-bike dimensions with big-bike suspension, braking and handling qualities.

 3. Key Features

3.1 Styling & Equipment

• Redesigned bodywork elevates individuality
• Easy custom potential; all four panels attach with just six bolts each side
• LCD dash now includes rev counter and gear position indicator

The previous MSX125’s look was very much a miniature reflection of the modern lines of  Honda’s sport naked motorcycles of the time. For 2021, the new MSX125 Grom takes a different design direction.

There’s a new kind of quirkiness about the bodywork – a distinctive individuality that mixes the modernity of sleek LED headlight, pared-down seat unit and subframe with the retro of the super-compact side panels and tank covers. And, influenced by customers’ ongoing  efforts to make their bike unique, the MSX125 Grom is designed around the concept of adaptability and easy customisation – all of the bodywork attaches with six bolts each side, a detail highlighted by large bolt surrounds for another unique design touch.

The gold finish to the USD front forks, and yellow shock spring stand out in bright contrast to the blacked-out engine, exhaust, wheels and swingarm. Easy to read for its compact size the LCD digital dash has been redesigned to include a rev-counter and gear position indicator, alongside the speedometer, twin trip meters, fuel gauge and clock. Resetting of the trip meters and clock, or alternation between odometer and trip meter, is managed by the switches either side of the display.

The new 2021 MSX125 Grom will be available in the following colour options:

Force Silver Metallic

Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic

Gayety Red

3.2 Engine

• All-new, 125cc air-cooled two-valve engine
• Five-speed gearbox improves out-of-town cruising potential
• EURO5 compliance

The MSX125 Grom has a new, 125cc two-valve air-cooled engine, with 50mm bore and 63.1mm stroke, and compression ratio of 10.0:1. Peak power of 7.2kW arrives at 7,250rpm, with peak torque of 10.5Nm at 5,500rpm.

Just like the previous design, the MSX125 Grom’s engine packs a perfect blend of zippy roll-on performance with useful, accessible all-round ability. Really, this unit all about fun of twisting a throttle, but one major upgrade that riders will appreciate is the application of a 5-speed gearbox (rather than 4-speed) to spread the ratios further and give more relaxed, higher-speed cruising. Top speed goes from 92km/h to 94km/h.

Manual clutch operation still imparts a full-sized motorcycle experience, while the 15T gearbox sprocket, 38T final drive sprocket and 12-inch wheels deliver lively around-town response plus the ability to travel slowly in a high gear – perfect for threading easily through tight traffic.

It’s also economical, returning 66.6km/l (WMTC mode) by using low-friction technologies, such as an offset cylinder and roller-rocker arm for the valve gear. Sophisticated PGM-FI guarantees highly efficient combustion, and works in conjunction with both air intake and exhaust to deliver an involving experience at the throttle. A large, 2.5L airbox and panel-type, wet paper filter provide reliable and quiet airflow; the filter itself has a life of 10,000 miles. The exhaust downpipe and muffler are now two separate parts.

The MSX125 Grom is homologated for EURO5, which from January 1st 2020, introduced significantly stricter engine emissions standards compared to EURO4. These requirements include substantial reductions in permitted carbon monoxide emissions, an over 40% decrease in total hydrocarbon emissions, tougher misfire detection and the introduction of a particulate matter limit.

3.3 Chassis

• Steel mono-backbone frame provides central strength; 761mm seat height
• Quality suspension performance from 31mm USD forks and rear monoshock
• 12-inch wheel rims and hydraulic disc brakes front and rear

The MSX125 Grom’s well-proven chassis is essentially unchanged during its 2021 makeover, and the original priorities of design remain relevant: provide the base for a practical bike that new riders could use – and park – with ease in an urban environment, but be just as useable and enjoyable out of town, and also readily accept a pillion.

A steel mono-backbone frame ensures the MSX125 Grom’s core strength. Its rigid, square-section tube joins the headstock directly to the swingarm pivot plates and every other part in effect hangs visibly from the frame, greatly contributing to the minimalist look. Specifically tuned vertical/horizontal rigidity and flex in the swingarm pivot and engine hanger plates provides the perfect balance of comfort and confidence.

The frame structure also enables efficient storage of PGM-FI-related components and electrical parts inside the tank cover and fuel capacity is increased (6.0L). Wheelbase is a snug 1200mm, with rake and trail of 25°/84mm. Kerb weight is reduced to 103kg. A low 761mm seat height makes the MSX125 Grom very manageable; its size also ensures that motor home owners find it easy to load/unload, transport and use.

Suspension front and rear delivers ‘beyond class’ quality. The 31mm USD fork reduces unsprung weight and, thanks to the pistons’ greater pressure-bearing area (compared to a standard telescopic fork) offers improved damping feel throughout the stroke. The top and bottom yokes are full-sized, further enhancing handling and rider feel while a lightweight and robust single rear shock operates a simple and tough H-shape, 50mm x 25mm steel box section swingarm.

Fundamental to the MSX Grom’s form and function are its 5-spoke (re-styled) 12-inch cast aluminium wheels, which feature wide 2.5-inch rims. Front 120/70-12 and 130/70-12 rear tyres also inject dynamic looks and performance. Hydraulic dual piston front (finished in gold) and single piston rear brake calipers work front 220mm and rear 190mm discs. The ABS system operates through an IMU.  

 4. Technical Specifications

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

# Please note that the figures provided are results obtained by Honda under standardised testing conditions prescribed by WMTC. Tests are conducted on a rolling road using a standard version of the vehicle with only one rider and no additional optional equipment. Actual fuel consumption may vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.