Honda Grom (MSX125) Review: Small Bike, Big Personality
The Honda Grom, known in earlier generations as the MSX125, has become one of the world’s most recognisable small motorcycles. Lightweight, agile and packed with personality, it has developed a loyal following among commuters, new riders and experienced bikers looking for a bike that’s simply fun to ride. But can this pocket-sized Honda really live up to its reputation?
Model Note: This review covers the current Honda Grom and the earlier MSX125 models where appropriate. Styling, equipment and minor technical details have evolved between generations.
⭐ Motorhome Monkey Rating
★★★★☆ 8/10
Recommended
A brilliantly entertaining lightweight motorcycle that proves you don’t need big horsepower to have big fun.
📖 Want to know how we award our ratings? Read our review process here: https://motorhomemonkey.co.uk/how-we-review-at-motorhome-monkey/
Overview
Few motorcycles have created their own niche quite like the Honda Grom.
Originally introduced as the MSX125, the Grom was never intended to be a miniature sports bike. Instead, Honda designed it to make everyday riding enjoyable, affordable and unintimidating.
Its compact size, lively handling and dependable engineering have made it popular with commuters, learners and seasoned riders alike. It’s also become a favourite for custom builders, with a huge range of aftermarket accessories available.
While it won’t replace a larger touring motorcycle, it excels at putting a smile on your face every time you ride.
Styling & Build Quality
The Grom has a modern, youthful look that’s quite different from the retro charm of the Monkey or Dax.
Sharp bodywork, exposed frame elements and compact proportions give it a sporty appearance, while LED lighting on newer models adds a contemporary touch.
As expected from Honda, the finish is excellent. Switchgear feels robust, paint quality is high and the bike has a reassuringly solid feel despite its small size.
Riding Experience
This is where the Grom really shines.
The 124cc single-cylinder engine delivers smooth, predictable power that’s ideal for urban riding. Combined with the bike’s lightweight chassis, it feels incredibly agile in traffic and a joy to throw through bends on country lanes.
The four-speed gearbox on earlier models and five-speed gearbox on current versions are slick and easy to use, while the clutch is light enough for beginners.
It’s not a bike for high-speed motorway work, but on roads where agility matters more than outright speed, the Grom is enormous fun.
Comfort
The riding position is upright and relaxed, although taller riders may find it a little cramped on longer journeys.
The seat is supportive for shorter rides, and the suspension does a respectable job of soaking up uneven road surfaces considering the bike’s compact dimensions.
For commuting and weekend rides, comfort is more than adequate.
Practicality
The Grom is inexpensive to run and simple to own.
Owners benefit from:
- Excellent fuel economy.
- Affordable servicing.
- Low insurance costs.
- Strong reliability.
- Huge aftermarket support.
Its compact size also makes it easy to store and manoeuvre.
Running Costs
Few motorcycles cost less to own.
Routine servicing is straightforward, replacement parts are widely available and Honda’s reputation for reliability inspires confidence.
Tyres, chains and consumables are all relatively inexpensive, helping to keep ownership costs low.
👍 What We Liked
- Exceptionally agile handling.
- Excellent Honda build quality.
- Low running costs.
- Fun at sensible speeds.
- Huge aftermarket accessories market.
- Beginner friendly.
👎 What Could Be Better
- Limited comfort for taller riders.
- Small fuel tank means more frequent refuelling.
- Not designed for sustained motorway use.
- Limited luggage options without accessories.
👤 Who Is It Best For?
The Honda Grom is ideal for:
- New riders.
- Urban commuters.
- Weekend leisure riders.
- Riders wanting a fun second motorcycle.
- Owners interested in customising their bike.
It may be less suitable for:
- Long-distance touring.
- Regular motorway riding.
- Carrying a passenger over extended distances.
- Riders wanting substantial luggage capacity.
🐵 How Does It Compare with the Honda Monkey?
Although the Grom and Monkey share much of their engineering, they deliver very different riding experiences.
The Honda Monkey is all about nostalgia. Its retro styling, chunky tyres and relaxed character make every ride feel like an event, even at modest speeds.
The Honda Grom, by contrast, has a sportier personality. Its sharper styling, more focused handling and compact dimensions encourage a slightly more spirited riding style.
If you enjoy leisurely rides through the countryside, stopping for coffee and admiring the scenery, the Monkey remains our favourite.
If you spend more time weaving through town traffic or enjoy tackling twisty roads with a playful attitude, the Grom is likely to put an even bigger grin on your face.
Neither bike is objectively better—they simply suit different styles of riding.
⭐ Motorhome Monkey Verdict
The Honda Grom proves that performance figures tell only part of the story.
It’s affordable, reliable and enormous fun, offering an engaging riding experience without intimidating less experienced riders. While it lacks the nostalgic appeal of the Monkey or the relaxed practicality of the Dax, it counters with agile handling and a youthful, energetic character.
If you’re looking for a lightweight motorcycle that delivers maximum smiles for minimum outlay, the Grom deserves a place near the top of your shortlist.
Considering Alternatives?
If you’re considering the Honda Grom, you may also like to read our reviews of:
- Honda Monkey
- Honda Dax 125
- Royal Enfield Hunter 350 (coming soon)
- Honda CB125R (coming soon)
Each offers a different interpretation of lightweight motorcycling, from retro charm to modern roadster styling.
Editorial Note
Motorhome Monkey motorcycle reviews are based on manufacturer specifications, independent road tests, long-term owner feedback and editorial assessment. Our aim is to provide balanced, informative reviews that help riders choose the motorcycle best suited to their riding style and budget.
