Honda MSX

The Honda MSX125, also known as the Grom in international markets, stands as a distinctly styled mini-motorcycle that challenges conventional bike design with its purposeful proportions and retro-modern aesthetics. I find its appeal rooted in the air-cooled 125cc four-stroke engine producing 9.7 horsepower and 10.9 Newton-meters of torque, paired with a responsive five-speed transmission that makes urban riding enjoyable. The bike features comprehensive modern hardware including 220mm front and 190mm rear hydraulic disc brakes, inverted USD forks, and a monoshock rear suspension that punches well above its modest dimensions. At just 103kg, it achieves remarkable agility, while the 761mm seat height ensures accessibility for shorter riders. The 12-inch alloy wheels wrapped in appropriate tyres provide stable handling, and the LED lighting combined with an informative LCD instrument cluster adds contemporary touches to this mechanical package that genuinely delivers big-bike characteristics in a compact, manageable frame.

The Honda MSX125 is a pocket-sized 125cc motorcycle designed to offer fun and functional mobility with a unique style. It features a 124cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine with fuel injection, generating about 7.3 kW of power and 10.8 Nm torque, mated to a 5-speed transmission. The bike weighs just 103 kg kerb weight and rides on 12-inch wheels, with USD front forks and a mono-shock at the rear for agile handling and comfort. Its seat height of 761 mm suits a wide range of riders, especially novices or those looking for a manageable machine in congested urban settings. The bike sports sporty single-disc brakes front and rear without ABS in the Indian market, focusing on simplicity and affordability. Fuel tank capacity stands at 6 liters, which is sufficient for city rides but may require frequent refills on longer trips. Colour options like Matte Axis Grey Metallic and Pearl Himalayas add to its youthful appeal. The MSX125 is ideal for short-distance commuting, errands, or leisure riding in Indian cities where tight traffic demands compact and agile machines with low running costs.

The Honda MSX125 represents a unique proposition in India's two-wheeler market, though its availability remains limited. From my perspective, this pocket rocket delivers exceptional value for riders seeking a fun, manageable commuter that doesn't compromise on quality or build standards. The bike's lightweight 103kg kerb weight combined with its nimble handling characteristics makes it ideal for navigating congested Indian traffic, while the robust construction ensures longevity typical of Honda motorcycles. However, the limited demand in India means spare parts availability and service infrastructure could be challenging compared to mainstream bikes. For young riders or urban commuters prioritizing maneuverability and distinctive styling over practicality, this remains a compelling choice, though you'll need to weigh the convenience factor against potential service hassles in most Indian cities.

The Honda MSX125 stands out as a fun, nimble, and practical 125cc motorcycle ideal for urban commuting and city rides. It combines a compact footprint with a punchy air-cooled 124cc engine delivering about 7.3 kW power and 10.8 Nm torque, enough for easy maneuvering through traffic and short trips. The lightweight chassis, just around 103 kg, paired with USD front forks and a mono-shock rear suspension, offers a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride even on uneven roads. Its distinctive styling grabs attention, blending a mini-bike’s playful charm with genuine motorcycle ergonomics. While it may lack advanced electronics like ABS in India, it compensates with simplicity and reliable mechanicals. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth and well-suited to city speeds. For riders seeking a scooter alternative with more engagement, or beginners wanting a manageable first motorcycle, the MSX125 is a compelling choice. However, space and comfort might not match bigger commuter bikes, so it’s best suited for solo city use. Overall, it’s a refreshing option in the 125cc segment, delivering personality and Honda’s trusted reliability at an accessible scale.

Honda has announced that the facelifted Grom, first seen in Thailand, will be released in Japan on March 14, 2024. The bike retains its 123cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine but features updated bodywork and graphics. I think the wait will be worth it for Grom enthusiasts.

The 2024 Honda Grom has been released in Japan with a new facelift, featuring a sportier and less toy-like design, along with new color options such as Pearl Horizon White and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic. The bike includes a flatter seat and a USB socket for charging devices. The Japanese market price is around ¥390,500, including a 10% consumption tax. I think the new design gives the Grom a more mature look.

Honda has announced the 2024 Grom will be available in several new colors, including Blue Raspberry, Pearl White, and Nitric Orange. The bike retains its 123.9cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine and 5-speed transmission, known for its efficiency and reliability. Additionally, Honda is offering new genuine accessories such as a visor for the dash, knuckle guards, and luggage options. I believe these accessories will make the Grom even more appealing to adventure riders.

The 2024 Honda Grom continues to boast impressive gas mileage, with an estimated 166.5 mpg, making it an economical choice for riders. The bike also features a manual 5-speed transmission and a multiplate wet clutch. Its low operating and maintenance costs, along with Hondas legendary reliability, make it a popular option. I think the fuel efficiency is one of the Groms strongest selling points.

The 2024 Honda Grom meets current EPA and CARB emissions standards, ensuring it is environmentally compliant. The bike also comes with a transferable one-year limited warranty, with extended coverage available through a HondaCare Protection Plan. This adds to the bikes reliability and peace of mind for owners.

The Honda MSX125 is priced around Rs 80,000 ex-showroom in India, though some estimates suggest the price could range between Rs 1.2 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh depending on specific variants and features available. The on-road pricing would add registration, insurance, and other statutory charges, typically pushing the total investment to approximately Rs 95,000 to Rs 1,70,000 depending on your city's tax structure and dealer pricing. From my analysis, this pricing positions the MSX125 as a premium offering in its segment, reflecting the bike's imported status and full-featured specification. The price-to-performance ratio remains reasonable given the quality components like USD forks and dual-disc brakes, though Indian buyers accustomed to budget commuters might find it steep. I'd recommend comparing this against locally assembled alternatives to understand the premium you're paying for the Honda MSX's engineering and design, which could influence your purchase decision significantly.

In India, the Honda MSX125 is expected to be priced around ₹80,000 ex-showroom, making it one of the most affordable motorcycles in the 125cc category. On-road prices, including insurance, RTO, and other local taxes, typically bring the cost to approximately ₹95,000 to ₹1,00,000 depending on the city. This aggressive pricing positions the MSX125 as an attractive option for first-time buyers, young riders, or those looking for a stylish commuter bike without the premium price tag. Compared to other 125cc options priced between ₹1.2 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh, the MSX125 offers compelling value in terms of brand reliability, build quality, and engine performance. Its affordability makes it accessible for daily commuting or short-range urban mobility. However, given its minimalist approach in features, buyers should weigh the basics it offers versus higher-end 125cc motorcycles that come with additional electronic aids or bigger fuel tanks. Nonetheless, for budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinct and reliable urban two-wheeler, the MSX125’s pricing is a definite strong-point.

The Honda MSX125 delivers impressive fuel efficiency with consumption figures around 1.5L per 100km, translating to approximately 66-67 kilometers per liter in real-world riding conditions. This means running costs remain economical for daily commuting, with modest fuel expenses even with regular usage. The lightweight engine and efficient air-cooled 125cc design contribute to this frugality, making it practical for budget-conscious riders despite the higher initial purchase price. For daily commuters, this efficiency helps offset the premium pricing over time.

The Honda MSX125 delivers a respectable mileage figure of approximately 40-45 kmpl under typical Indian city riding conditions. This makes it efficient for daily commuting and keeps running costs low. While not the absolute highest mileage in the segment, the MSX125’s fuel-injected air-cooled engine balances performance and economy well. Its lightweight construction also aids efficiency. For buyers prioritizing budget-friendly operation and low maintenance, the MSX125’s mileage and economical fuel consumption contribute positively to its overall cost of ownership.