Clash of Titans: Honda Grom vs Kawasaki Z125
The Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 stand out as top contenders in the minibike market, boasting impressive specifications and well-crafted designs honed over the years. While the Grom offers a high degree of customization, the Z125 serves as a compact rendition of Kawasaki’s renowned larger sports motorcycles. Surprisingly, despite sharing a similar engine size, these two bikes exhibit notable differences.
To shed light on their distinctions and help individuals make the optimal choice based on their preferences and circumstances, I’ve undertaken a head-to-head comparison.
Honda Grom
The Honda Grom has not only established itself as a prominent figure within Honda’s miniMOTO lineup but has also left an indelible mark on the world of minibikes. Since its introduction in 2014, when it clinched the Motorcycle USA Motorcycle of the Year Award, the Grom has consistently ranked among Honda’s top-selling motorcycles in both the United States and across the globe.
The Grom’s widespread appeal goes beyond its spirited 125cc engine and exceptional handling. Its adaptability is truly remarkable, offering a canvas for a wide spectrum of custom designs.
Furthermore, the Grom boasts an impressive array of specifications that have continually evolved and improved throughout Honda’s nearly decade-long journey with this model. These specifications include:
- A 125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine;
- Reaching a maximum speed of 56 mph;
- Generating 10 horsepower at 7,000 rpm;
- Achieving an impressive fuel economy of 134 mpg;
- Equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission;
- Featuring inverted front suspension offering 3.9 inches of travel;
- Supported by a rear mono-shock suspension with 4.1 inches of travel;
- Fitted with both front and rear disc brakes.
Kawasaki Z125
Kawasaki’s vision for the Z125 was to create an entry-level sports bike that embodies the essence of their larger, high-performance Z models, all while offering a more lightweight and manageable riding experience.
Despite its smaller size, the Z125 doesn’t compromise on power or excitement, and it even provides a variety of color choices to ignite your enthusiasm for venturing into the world of biking.
In addition to its remarkable power, the Z125 belongs to Kawasaki’s “supernaked” lineup, characterized by its ultra-lightweight build. This translates into outstanding acceleration and precise handling, complemented by an array of impressive specifications, which include:
- A 125cc single-cylinder engine with air-cooling;
- Capable of reaching a maximum speed of 72 mph;
- Producing 8.3 horsepower at 7,800 rpm;
- Delivering an excellent fuel economy of 80 mpg;
- Equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission;
- Features inverted telescopic fork front suspension;
- Incorporates a swingarm with a single-shock rear suspension;
- Fitted with disc brakes both at the front and rear.
Faceoff: Honda Grom vs Kawasaki Z125
With this comprehensive examination of specifications, we can delve into the distinct strengths and attributes of each model, gaining insight into the various facets of the riding experience where one surpasses the other. Below, we’ll explore the specific areas in which each model excels and outperforms its counterpart.
| Aspect | Kawasaki Z125 | Honda Grom |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 125cc single-cylinder | 125cc single-cylinder |
| Maximum Speed | 72 mph | 56 mph |
| Horsepower | 8.3 hp at 7,800 rpm | 10 hp at 7,000 rpm |
| Fuel Economy | 80 mpg | 134 mpg |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual | 4-speed manual |
| Suspension | Inverted telescopic fork front, single-shock rear | Inverted front suspension, rear mono-shock |
| Brakes | Disc brakes (front and rear) | Disc brakes (front and rear) |
| Price (MSRP) | Starting at $3,299 | Starting at $3,399 |
| Customization | Less extensive culture of customization | Thriving customization culture |
| Handling | Agile and responsive | Slightly better suspension, narrower tires |
| Speed and Power | Faster, higher top speed, more responsive acceleration | Slower, lower top speed, less responsive acceleration |
Comfort
- Winner: Grom
While the difference in comfort between the Grom and Z125 is minimal, the Grom holds a slight edge. This is especially noticeable for taller riders interested in minibikes. The Grom boasts a seat that’s about half an inch higher and superior suspension, making it a more comfortable choice.
Looks and Customization
- Winner: Grom
Both motorcycles exude a cool aesthetic reminiscent of larger sports bikes, but the Grom offers a more distinctive appearance with broader angles, a visible motor, and an exhaust that enhances its overall look. Furthermore, the Grom’s extensive history in the market has fostered a thriving customization culture, providing a wide array of available parts and design options.
However, the Z125 remains an excellent selection for those who prefer the supernaked style with minimal extra features and a fully exposed motor. If your taste leans toward the larger Kawasaki Ninja bikes, the Z125 might align better with your style.
Price
- Winner: Grom
At first glance, it may seem counterintuitive to award the win to the Grom, considering that the Z125 has a lower initial price tag. However, when closely examined, their sticker prices are nearly identical. The Z125 comes with an MSRP of $3,299, while the Grom starts at $3,399 for the least expensive version.
The Grom’s superior gas mileage, at 134 mpg versus 80 for the Z125, means that you’ll recoup that $100 difference in just a few rides in today’s economy.
Handling
- Winner: Z125
Despite the Grom’s slightly better suspension, the Z125 takes the lead in handling. Its narrower tires and reduced trail make it more responsive to maneuvers. Furthermore, the Z125’s four-pound lighter weight, a significant factor in the minibike realm, results in greater stability and ease of handling for novice riders while offering agility and quick responsiveness for experienced ones.
Speed and Power
- Winner: Z125
If speed is your priority, the Z125 emerges as the preferred choice, capable of reaching velocities over 10 mph higher than the Grom. Additionally, owing to its lighter weight, the Z125 delivers more kick and responsive acceleration. Although the Grom boasts more horsepower than older Z125 models, the latest Z125s offer a considerable power boost.
Now, let’s explore the available upgrades for both models.
2022 Updates: Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Get Revamped
The year 2022 brings exciting upgrades to both the Honda Grom and the Kawasaki Z125, enhancing the appeal and performance of these popular minibikes.
2022 Honda Grom
Honda’s dedication to refining the Grom over the last eight years has resulted in significant improvements for the 2022 model. Notable enhancements include a slightly larger engine, now 1 cc larger, and a higher compression ratio of 10:1. These modifications translate to increased power and acceleration, yet remarkably, the 2022 Grom boasts even better fuel efficiency compared to previous iterations.
In addition to these changes, Honda has managed to shed a bit of weight, bringing the 2022 Grom’s weight down to 227 pounds from 229. Coupled with an upgraded rear sprocket featuring 38 teeth, up from 34, these adjustments further enhance acceleration and handling.
One standout feature of the 2022 Grom is the introduction of a removable oil filter. This addition simplifies maintenance and opens up new possibilities for customization.
2022 Kawasaki Z125
The 2022 Z125 from Kawasaki represents a substantial transformation compared to its predecessors. While retaining its lightweight supernaked design, Kawasaki has significantly amplified the motor’s power, boosting it to nearly 15 horsepower at 7,700 rpm, resulting in a top speed of approximately 78 mph.
Another noteworthy update is the introduction of a new six-speed transmission, which ensures smoother acceleration. However, this enhanced power and transmission might make the bike slightly more intimidating for beginners.
In addition to its improved performance, the 2022 Z125 offers better gas mileage, achieving 110 mpg. This not only enhances the overall economy but also enhances its value proposition.
Conclusion
The Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 share qualities of compactness and agility, making them equally enjoyable and manageable for both beginners and seasoned riders. Their stylish design ensures they turn heads when used as urban transportation alternatives.
However, your choice between the two may hinge on specific needs or preferences. Here are my recommendations:
- For New Riders: The Grom is a solid choice due to its lower top speed and lower center of gravity, providing a more stable and forgiving ride for those starting out;
- Experienced Riders Seeking Fun: If you’re an experienced rider seeking excitement, especially with the 2022 Z125 model, you’ll appreciate the Z125’s powerful, lightweight, and agile nature, offering a thrilling riding experience;
- Customization Enthusiasts: Opt for the Grom if you have a penchant for customization. Its extensive culture of personalization includes a wide array of available parts and design options, allowing you to make your bike truly unique;
- Concerned about Gas Prices: The Grom stands out as an excellent choice for fuel-conscious riders. It not only outperforms the Z125 in gas mileage but also surpasses many other minibikes in this aspect;
- Urban Commuters: The Grom is also a top pick for urban commuting, owing to its superior gas mileage and a slightly more comfortable seating position, ensuring a pleasant ride through city streets;
- Off-Road or Out-of-Town Adventures: If you plan to venture off-road or explore areas beyond the city limits, the Z125 is likely the better option, thanks to its exceptional handling characteristics that make it suitable for such adventures.
Pick what’s best for you.
