Honda Grom
In a world that continuously asks for more power, decides to instead pull its brakes and launch its new MSX125. With a not so well-defined identity, this new Honda straddles the position of being a motorcycle or a scooter reaching a wider range of two-wheel aficionados.
Since we all know that remembering ‘MSX125’ would have been an extremely hard work, Honda came up with a fancy name for its brand new pearl – Grom. This means thunderclap in Polish, and who knows in how many other Slavic languages, but it is also shortening for ‘grommet’ that stands for a young surfer ripping the waves. So, a Honda Grom lover could be also a surf devotee. Or not.
Down to a more technical level, the Grom is powered by a 124.9 cc air-cooled four-stroke with programmed fuel injection that generates 10hp (7.5 kW) at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 8 ft-lb (10.8 Nm) at 5500 rpm. The engine is nearly square (52.4 mm bore and 57.9 mm stroke), which provides a superior balance between top-end power and mid-range throttle response. The power reaches the rear wheel via a four-speed manual transmission, which is controlled in the same way as larger bikes.
Its maximum speed is about 104 - 112 km/h on a flat road, which makes it not appropriate for freeways and highways, unless you are feeling tremendously brave and reckless. Its likely environment appears to be mostly the city and suburban neighbourhoods.
Honda’s designers undoubtedly took inspiration from the iconic CT70 to give the Grom a groovy and cool attitude. This bike is like a black canvas, ready to be customized. It is a stylish and fun piece to show off to your friends and make them craving for a mind-blowing ride.
The Grom seems to fit the expectations of both expert riders and beginners, and seems even to fit the gap for the 20-something who wants to experience the feel to ride a bike at a fair price. The 125cc motorcycle seems to hold enough sway to delight the mannish man, while not trespassing the boundaries of high-end, high insurance, high consuming motor bikes. Starting at only $3,000, you can ride your Grom on Easy Street. You just need to sit back and relax, indeed August is upon us.
