KUALA LUMPUR: Dubbed as a little machine with big dreams, Honda’s uber-cute mini-bike, the MSX 125, gets a significant update for 2021. This off-road oriented bike is the spiritual successor of the Honda Monkey, being small in size but just as capable. It is also known as Honda Grom in some international markets. Let’s see what the automaker added to its newer version.

In terms of style, the updated MSX 125/Grom boasts heavily tweaked exterior styling but retains the silhouette that has been the hallmark of this pint-sized motorcycle.

The 2021 MSX 125 comes with a stacked LED headlight with black inserts, a new LCD dash, and new body panels. Each panel is connected with just 6 bolts, which means it can be swapped easily, making customization convenient than ever. The three versions of the mini-motto showcased by Honda Thailand comprises:

• A motard version featuring headlight-mounted front fender and handguards
• A Scrambler-inspired model sporting a headlight guard, different exhaust, and body panels
• An ADV-styled trim that boasts a bigger windshield, handguards, and a luggage rack

The pod styled digital Instrument panel features an odometer, speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, trip meters, clock, and so on. The gold forks and brake calipers and yellow rear suspension further complement its cult look.

Powering this pint-sized motorcycle is a 125-cc engine, which is now Euro-5 compliant. It generates 9.7 PS of maximum power and 10.5 Nm of peak torque transmitted to the ground via a new 5-speed gearbox that replaces the old 4-speed unit. The top speed has now increased from 86 kmph to 94 kmph.

The new Honda Grom also received some upgrades on the chassis. The subframe is now smaller, and the ongoing 12-inch wheels get a new 5-spoke design. The suspension kit includes a 31 mm USD front fork and a single monoshock, while the braking is done by a 2-pot caliper at the front and a single-piston caliper at the back. On top of this, the automaker brings a G-sensor-based ABS system onboard for the new bike.

The new Honda MSX125 Grom will be soon available in the Thailand market for 77,400 Thai baht (RM 10,292). Speaking about the local market, the ongoing iteration of the monkey bike is available for RM 10,499.

Also read: Honda unveils 2021 Forza 350 and Forza 125