TRAVERSE Issue 21 - December 2020 | Seite 115

TRAVERSE 115
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 .
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 revcounter 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 .
Further information can be found at your local Honda dealer .
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