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 and Ape. And it's a formula that still has resonance for a completely new breed of young riders; known as 'Generation Y' in the USA, 'Dek Neaw' in Thailand and 'Street-Kei' in Japan many of today's teenagers having grown up in the borderless, internet age share a culture, fashion and spirit that defies convention.

Instinctively drawn to motorcycling they need their first two-wheeled transport to be exciting but not unduly challenging, and want it to pack a design that makes them smile. They also have a desire to turn heads and be more than just a little bit different. Plus, given the usual financial pressures of starting out in life, all of this needs to be achieved as economically as possible.

For Honda the early acquisition and introduction to the quality and values of the brand is important the youthful buyer of a small capacity leisure bike today could very likely be back for something much bigger tomorrow, and lifelong brand loyalty can often result.

To cater specifically for this generation of young riders Honda has produced the MSX125 (Mini Street X-treme 125). It's everything expected of a Honda, in terms of performance, build quality and usability,but also wears a style and exudes an attitude all its own. Born of a feeling, of now, it's quirkily fresh and fittingly unconventional.

Model Overview

Manufactured in Thailand, the MSX125 is small enough to be supremely manageable yet also has a fully-fledged feel thanks to some standard sized motorcycle parts. It is part mini-bike, part motorcycle with involving performance matched to confident handling and styling that combines a sense of fun with a tough, urban edge.

Its well-proven and efficient 125cc fuel-injected engine has been further refined for even greater economy, plus smooth torque and power delivery, and also features a motorcycle-style four-speed gearbox and clutch. Complementing the powerplant is a compact chassis that features a sturdy steel frame, inverted front fork, monoshock rear suspension, hydraulic disc brakes front and rear and lightweight 12-inch wheels sporting wide, low profile tyres.

Four patents have been applied for through development of the MSX125, focused around the split structure tank cover and frame, proof of just how seriously this bike is taken by Honda. Small it may be, but it in terms of worldwide sales, brand awareness and owner satisfaction, its impact is expected to be large.

Key Features

Chassis

Priorities for the MSX125's chassis were threefold:it needed to provide the base for a practical bike that new riders could use and park with ease in an urban environment. But it also needed to be just as useable and enjoyable out of town, and also readily accept a pillion.

A steel mono-backbone frame has been employed. Its rigid, square-section tube joins the headstock directly to the swingarm pivot plates and every other part in effect hangs visibly from the frame, greatly contributing to the MSX125's minimalist look. Specifically tuned vertical/horizontal rigidity and flex in the swingarm pivot and engine hanger plates provides the perfect balance of comfort and confidence.

The new frame structure has also enabled efficient storage of PGM-FI-related components and electrical parts inside the tank cover without reducing fuel capacity (5.5L). Wheelbase is a snug 1200mm, with rake and trail of 25??and81mm and kerb weight of 101.7kg. The MSX125 has a low 765mm seat height making it very manageable; its size also ensures that motor home owners are sure to find it easy to load/unload, transport and use.

Another aim for the MSX125 was to provide 'beyond class' suspension quality. The 31mm USD fork a first for Honda on a 125cc motorcycle reduces unsprung weight and thanks to the pistons' greater pressure-bearing area (compared to a standard telescopic fork) offers improved damping feel throughout the stroke. The top and bottom yokes are full-sized, further enhancing handling and rider feel, while a lightweight and robust single rear shock operates a simple and tough H-shape, 50mm x 25mm steel box section swingarm.

Fundamental to the MSX125's form and function are its 12-inch cast aluminium wheels, which feature wide 2.5-inch rims. New 'Y' shaped spokes not only look great they also save weight and the front 120/70-12 and 130/70-12 rear tyres also inject a different dynamic, both in terms of looks and performance. Hydraulic dual piston front and single piston rear brake calipers work front 220mm and rear 190mm discs.
The MSX125 uses a combined projector headlight not only does this feature give the front of the bike a strong identity and presence it also uses a single light source (an HS1 35W/35W double filament bulb) rather than a pair of bulbs for both high and low beam. Low beam is generated by the upper projection unit and high beam is produced by multi-reflectors which spread out in its lower section. A subtle blue light flanks the projector lens and adds character and visibility while the bright LED taillight melts seamlessly into the bike's stubby silhouette.

Easy to read for its compact size the LCD digital dash delivers all the information the rider needs speedometer, twin trip meters, fuel gauge and clock. Resetting the trip meters and clock, or alternation between odometer and trip meter is via switches either side of the display.

Suiting its individuality (and that of its owners) the MSX125 is available in three paint options:
Pearl Himalayas White
Pearl Queen Bee Yellow
Pearl Valentine Red