Easy to use/ride, fun and functional, the Honda MSX125 has spun many generations since its inception as a monkey bike. As Honda has redefined this model with every new generation, this formula has worked well for the company. To cope with a new breed of young riders – the ‘Generation Y’ in the U.S and ‘Street Kei’ in Japan, the company has made changes and improvements accordingly. The MSX125 is small enough to be supremely manageable yet has a full-fledged capability as it incorporates several standard sized motorcycle parts. This makes this model to be a partly mini-bike and partly full-size motorcycle.
Honda MSX125 – Chassis and Specifications
The Honda has developed the chassis of this bike with 3 factors at play, basic for a standard bike, urban environment compatibility, and ruggedness. The MSX125 was comprehensively redesigned for 2016 generation which projected a sharper attitude and a ‘mini-streetfighter’ appeal. Fortunately, the company has retained this in the 2017 MSX125.
The specifications of chassis go as:
- Dimensions (Length × Width × Height) -1760 mm × 755 mm × 1010 mm
- Seat Height – 765 mm (30.1 inches)
- Rake – 25˚ (Caster angle)
- Trail – 81 mm
- Wheelbase – 1200 mm (47.2 inches)
- Curb Weight – 224 lbs (101.1 kg)
- Ground Clearance – 160 mm (6.2 inches)
- Turning Radius – 6.23 feet (1.9 meters)
Design
The design of Honda MSX125 is meant for enhancing functionality. The exhaust is compact and underslung, air intake has two separate channels and LED headlight has a double stack layout. The digital instrument cluster has a vibrant contrast of blue backlight and black digits which add up for better readability.
Honda MSX125 – Engine Performance
The new 2017 generation Honda MSX125 uses a 125cc two valve air cooled engine which uses low-friction technology including a roller-rocker arm for the valve gear and an offset cylinder. The Honda has brought out a smooth power delivery and an improved throttle feels by reducing the crank inertia.
This engine uses a 4-speed manual transmission system and offers smooth and consistent gear changes. The riders get an engaging experience with the throttle as carburation includes PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) which works in conjunction with exhaust and air intake.
Further details of this engine go as:
- Bore × Stroke – 52.4 mm × 9 mm
- Max Power Output – 9.6 HP at 7000 RPM
- Max Torque – 8.02 lb-ft
- Starter – Electric
- Clutch Type – Wet multi-plate
- Fuel Consumption – 154 MPG (1.52l/100km)
Brakes, Suspension, and Wheels
Interestingly, the Honda has made some changes (improvements) in 2017 MSX125’s suspension and brakes. The updated specs go as follows:
- Front Brake – Single 220 mm disc type with hydraulic dual-piston caliper
- Rear Brake – Single 190 mm disc type hydraulic single-piston caliper
- Front Suspension – USD Front forks, 31 mm
- Rear Suspension – Mono shock with steel square pipe swingarm
- Front Wheel & Tire – Y-spoke Aluminum Cast, 120/70-12
- Rear Wheel & Tire – Y-spoke Aluminum Cast, 130/70-12
Honda MSX125 – Price, Colors, and Competitors
The Honda MSX125 comes with a price tag of £2,969 ($ 3,638). Buyers get to choose between 4 color options viz. Lemon Ice Yellow, Pearl Valentine Red, Pearl Himalayas White and Matt Axis Grey Metallic. The Kawasaki KSR110 stands a great competition against this model.
