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Honda MSX 125 Grom: generations, engine and what to check when buying used
Honda MSX 125 (known as Grom in other markets) — since 2013, this small 125 cm³ motorcycle with 12-inch wheels has become one of the most popular 'mini' motorcycles. We look at the generations, tech, and what's important to check when buying used.
MSX 125 in brief
MSX 125 — a compact, lightweight, fun motorcycle with a manual gearbox and small wheels. It's designed for the city and fun, not long journeys.
Thanks to its small capacity and power, it's suitable for A1 licence holders, while its light weight and low seat make it accessible for beginners.
Generations — what's the difference
The first generation (from 2013) featured an air-cooled 125 cm³ engine, a four-speed gearbox, and traditional styling. Later models gained ABS and minor updates to meet emissions standards.
The second generation (around 2021) stands out with a more modern design, LED lights, a digital instrument cluster, and a five-speed gearbox. Most used examples you'll find are from the first generation.
Engine and gearbox
The engine is a single-cylinder, air-cooled 125 cm³ four-stroke with fuel injection. It produces around 7 kW (about 9–10 hp), fitting within A1 licence limits.
The gearbox is manual; four speeds in the first generation, five in the later one. It's clutch-operated, so you'll need to know how to ride a manual motorcycle.
What to check when buying a used MSX 125
These motorcycles are often tuned, with exhaust systems or even engines swapped out, so check what's been changed and ensure it matches the documentation and A1 category requirements.
Inspect the chain and sprockets, plastics (common signs of drops), fork seals, brakes, and battery. Test the throttle and gear shifting — it should be smooth, without hesitation or slipping.
Due to their small size, many examples are ridden aggressively — check the service history, oil change intervals, and verify the frame number.
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list what's most commonly found in Europe.
MSX 125
2013–2020The base version of the first generation.
- Four-speed gearbox
- Air-cooled 125 cm³ engine
- Often — ABS depending on the year
MSX 125 (nauja karta)
From 2021Updated version.
- Five-speed gearbox
- LED headlights and digital dash
- ABS
Comparing Versions
| MSX 125 (2013–2020) | MSX 125 (nuo 2021) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who It's For | Ideal for city riding, fun, and first-time motorcyclists | For those seeking more modern features |
| Number of gears | 4 | 5 |
| Headlights | Halogen | LED |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the first-gen MSX 125 with ABS is a solid choice—it's more affordable and reliable. If modern features are important, opt for the newer version.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- An engine suitable for Category A1 and economical
- Low seat height, ideal for beginners
- Holds its value well
Cons
- Limited passenger comfort due to its small size
- Not ideal for long highway journeys
- Often tuned and damaged from drops
Frequently asked questions
What category is required for the MSX 125?
A 125 cm³ motorcycle with around 7 kW of power typically falls into Category A1. Check the exact details in the documents.
Is the MSX 125 suitable for travel?
For short trips, yes, but the small wheel size and limited power restrict speed and comfort for longer rides.
How does the MSX 125 differ from the Grom?
It's the same model: MSX 125 is the name used in Europe, Grom in North America and Asia.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
