Meet the Honda Grom (a.k.a. MSX125) — Small Bike, Big Fun

Who’s riding a Grom?

Let’s be honest. This bike isn’t for everyone, and that’s what makes it special. Typical Grom riders in the U.S. include:

• New riders who want an easy and confidence-building entry point into motorcycling. The low seat height (around 30 inches) and manageable power make it perfect for learning.

• Urban commuters who battle tight parking, narrow streets, and stop-and-go traffic. The Grom thrives in the city where big bikes struggle.

• Stunt and fun riders who appreciate how light, flickable, and forgiving it feels. The Grom community has a big stunt culture, with riders pulling wheelies, stoppies, and tricks for pure entertainment.

• Budget-conscious riders who already own a large motorcycle but want something cheaper to operate and maintain.

• Custom builders who see the Grom as a blank canvas. Its popularity means endless aftermarket parts, from exhausts to body kits to upgraded shocks.

In short, if you want massive speed, the Grom isn’t your bike. But if you want endless fun, personality, and the kind of joy that makes you ride just because you feel like it, this is it.

What Does It Cost and What Are You Getting?

One reason the Grom exploded in popularity is its price.

• In the United States, new Groms typically range from $3,100 to $3,800 depending on trim and dealer.

• The MSRP for the 2026 Honda Grom is around $3,599.

• It’s powered by a 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with a 5-speed manual transmission.

• The seat height is roughly 30 inches, making it comfortable for riders of almost any size.

You’re getting a real motorcycle at a fraction of the cost of most street bikes. Fuel efficiency is incredible, maintenance is minimal, and insurance is usually cheap. For many riders, the Grom is not just a purchase, it’s an investment in fun.

Why the Honda Grom Is So Much Fun

This is where the bike’s personality shines.

1. Instant enjoyment. You don’t need to hit highway speeds to feel the rush. The Grom is exciting at 30 miles per hour.

2. Pure laughter. Riders often say they find themselves giggling mid-ride. One described it perfectly: “I giggled the entire time and probably about 15 minutes after.”

3. Lightweight freedom. The Grom is easy to handle, quick to maneuver, and forgiving even for new riders.

4. Perfect for everyday life. Zip through traffic, fit anywhere, and get noticed everywhere.

5. A creative outlet. With so many mods available, you can make your Grom truly yours.

How to Make the Grom Even Better

The Grom is already a blast to ride out of the box, but half the fun comes from making it your own. Thanks to a massive aftermarket scene, small upgrades can completely change how it feels, handles, and looks. Here are a few worth considering:

Comfort & Performance

• Daytona Reinforced Rear Shock
  The stock suspension works fine for casual rides, but once you start pushing harder, you’ll notice its limits. The Daytona Reinforced Rear Shock improves comfort, stability, and cornering confidence while maintaining that playful Grom spirit. With adjustable height (250–258 mm), it’s an instant performance upgrade that keeps things fun but planted.

Control & Feel

• Throttle Tube
  Gives a smoother throttle pull and better modulation through corners or traffic. Reduces wrist strain and keeps response consistent on long rides.
  

• Steering Stem Nut (M24 x 30-P1.0)
  CNC-machined from aluminum for precision and strength. The anodized finish protects against corrosion while adding a subtle touch of color to the cockpit.

Protection & Style

• Bar Ends
  Weighted to reduce handlebar vibration and guard the grips from impact. Double-anodized for long-lasting color and a clean finish.
  

• Engine Plug
  Machined aluminum that resists heat and corrosion. Functional in purpose, simple in appearance.
  

• Engine Oil Cap
  Double-anodized aluminum for durability and color depth. Includes a safety wire hole to prevent loosening under vibration.
  

Electrical & Function

• Electrical Power Supply D-Unit
  Distributes power to up to four accessories, from USB ports to heated grips. Switches on and off with the ignition for convenience and safety.
  

• On/Off Switch
  Compact, pre-wired design rated for 15A. Ideal for clean control of auxiliary lights or other add-ons.
  

Definitely. The Grom is one of the most popular beginner bikes in the U.S.

• The low seat height keeps riders comfortable and confident.

• The light weight makes it easy to control and catch in slow turns.

• The manual clutch gives you real-bike experience without the intimidation of a high-powered machine.

It’s approachable but still authentic. You’ll learn genuine motorcycle skills, and when you move up to a larger bike, you’ll already have solid fundamentals.

Do People Use It for Stunts?

Yes, absolutely. The Grom is one of the most common bikes used for stunts and tricks. Its size and weight make it ideal for learning wheelies, burnouts, and balance control. Entire YouTube channels and communities are built around “Grom squads” riding together and showing off their setups.

Even if you’re not into stunts, you’ll feel that same spirit of playfulness every time you ride. It’s not about showing off. It’s about enjoying a machine that encourages you to ride more often and to love every minute of it.

Final Thoughts

If the motorcycle world had a class clown, the Honda Grom would be it. It’s funny, fearless, and impossible to ignore. Yet behind that playful look is a surprisingly capable machine that delivers an experience far beyond its price tag.

The Grom is a reminder that motorcycling doesn’t have to be serious to be meaningful. It’s for riders who crave fun, expression, and community. Upgrade that rear shock, take it out for a spin, and you’ll understand why the Honda Grom continues to win hearts across America.