Small bikes, big fun! One big question. Which one deserves a spot in your garage, the Honda Grom or the Kawasaki Z125 Pro? These pint-sized motorcycles are proof that great things come in small packages. They’re fun, fast (in their own way), and perfect for squeezing through city traffic or tackling a weekend adventure.
Curious about which one suits you best? Let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison of these mini street machines. By the end, you’ll know exactly which bike fits your style, needs, and budget. Don’t just follow the trend, find the perfect bike for you!
Engine and Performance
Engine Specifications
The Honda Grom comes with a 124.9cc engine. It is a single-cylinder, air-cooled, and four-stroke engine. This setup keeps the bike simple and reliable. The engine is designed for smooth rides on city roads.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has a 125cc engine. It is also a single-cylinder, air-cooled, and four-stroke engine. Both bikes are similar in this way. The Z125 Pro offers steady power for short trips and urban commuting.
Power and Torque
The Honda Grom delivers 9.7 horsepower. It also produces 7.7 lb-ft of torque. This power is enough for most city rides. It feels responsive and balanced.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has 9.3 horsepower. Its torque is 7.1 lb-ft. The bike feels quick but slightly less powerful than the Grom. Riders may notice this difference during acceleration.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The Honda Grom can reach a top speed of around 56 mph. It takes off smoothly but is not made for high speeds. It works best in slow traffic or relaxed rides.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro can go up to 60 mph. It feels faster in open spaces. This makes it a better choice for riders who enjoy more speed.
Transmission and Gearbox
Gear Count
The Honda Grom has a 4-speed manual transmission. It allows riders to shift gears easily. The gears are smooth and simple to use. This makes the Grom comfortable for both new and experienced riders.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also comes with a 4-speed manual transmission. It offers a similar shifting experience. The bike is responsive, and gear changes feel natural. Both bikes provide enough gears for city rides and short trips.
Gear Ratios and Performance
The Honda Grom’s gear ratios are designed for balance. It performs well at lower speeds. This makes it perfect for urban areas with heavy traffic. The Grom feels controlled and steady.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has slightly different gear ratios. These make it feel quicker at higher speeds. Riders may notice this on open roads or long straight paths. The Z125 Pro feels more agile in these conditions.
Dimensions and Ergonomics
Seat Height
The Honda Grom has a seat height of 30 inches. This makes it easy for shorter riders to reach the ground. Many riders feel comfortable and stable while sitting on it. The lower height is helpful in stop-and-go traffic.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has a seat height of 31.7 inches. This is slightly higher than the Grom. Taller riders may find it more suitable. The higher seat gives a better view of the road.
Ground Clearance
The Honda Grom has a ground clearance of 7 inches. This helps the bike handle small bumps and curbs. Riders feel confident navigating uneven surfaces.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has a ground clearance of 6.1 inches. This is lower than the Grom. It feels more stable on smooth roads but less ideal for rougher paths.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Honda Grom weighs 227 pounds. It feels light and easy to handle. Riders can control it well in tight spaces or crowded areas. This makes it great for beginners.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro weighs 225 pounds. It is slightly lighter than the Grom. The bike feels nimble and quick to respond. Riders enjoy its agility, especially in urban settings.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
Styling and Build
The Honda Grom has a modern look. Its sharp lines and angular design give it a unique style. The headlight stands out with its distinct shape. Riders who like a bold and fresh design often prefer the Grom. It also has a minimalist look that feels clean and uncluttered.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has a sporty and aggressive appearance. It has sharp fairings that give it a more traditional street-bike vibe. The bike feels like a scaled-down version of bigger sportbikes. Many riders like its sleek and compact design.
Customization Options
The Honda Grom is known for its customization. Riders can find a wide range of aftermarket parts. These include different seats, handlebars, exhausts, and more. Many people enjoy making their Grom unique.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has fewer options for customization. It is simple and functional out of the box. Some riders may still modify it, but the market offers fewer choices compared to the Grom.
Ride Quality and Suspension
Suspension Systems
The Honda Grom has an inverted front fork with 3.9 inches of travel. This setup makes the ride smooth on city roads. It absorbs bumps well and keeps the bike stable. The rear monoshock has 4.1 inches of travel. It balances the bike and handles weight shifts during rides.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also uses an inverted front fork. The travel is the same at 3.9 inches. This ensures a steady ride on flat roads. The rear monoshock has 4.1 inches of travel, similar to the Grom. It keeps the ride comfortable and handles sharp turns.
Handling
The Honda Grom feels stable and controlled. Its wider tires provide good grip on the road. Riders find it easy to steer through tight spaces. The handling feels predictable and solid.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has narrower tires. This makes it feel more agile and quicker to respond. Riders enjoy its sharp handling, especially in busy streets. The bike feels lighter and faster during quick maneuvers.
Braking System
Disc Brakes
The Honda Grom has hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. These brakes provide strong stopping power. The front brake is responsive and feels precise. The rear brake adds balance during sudden stops. This setup makes the Grom reliable in busy traffic or open roads.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also comes with hydraulic disc brakes on the front and rear. The braking system is efficient and consistent. Riders feel confident using both brakes together. The Z125 Pro offers smooth control during stops, even at higher speeds.
ABS Options
The Honda Grom offers a model with single-channel ABS. This feature helps prevent wheel lock during hard braking. Riders find it useful on slippery or wet roads. The ABS adds safety, especially for newer riders.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro does not come with ABS. While the brakes work well without it, some riders might miss this extra safety feature. It requires more skill to manage braking in challenging conditions.
Fuel Economy and Capacity
Fuel Tank Sizes
The Honda Grom has a fuel tank that holds 1.6 gallons. This is smaller compared to some other bikes. It works well for short trips and daily rides. Riders may need to refuel more often during longer journeys.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has a larger tank. It holds 2.0 gallons of fuel. This allows the bike to cover more distance without stopping for gas. Riders who plan longer rides might prefer this larger capacity.
Mileage and Range
The Honda Grom is very fuel-efficient. It gives an average of 134 miles per gallon. This makes it one of the best options for saving on fuel. With a full tank, it can go around 214 miles.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also offers excellent mileage. It averages 100-120 miles per gallon. Its larger tank gives it a range of up to 240 miles. Riders who value both range and efficiency may find it more practical.
Pricing and Value
MSRP Comparison
The Honda Grom has a starting price of $3,499. This makes it affordable for most riders. The cost may vary slightly based on location or additional features. Riders feel it is worth the price for its reliability and fun factor.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro is priced at $3,399. It is slightly cheaper than the Grom. Many riders see this as a good value for a bike with similar features. It appeals to those looking for a budget-friendly option.
Warranty and Maintenance
The Honda Grom comes with a 12-month warranty. This covers most issues that may arise during regular use. Riders can also buy extended coverage for more peace of mind. Maintenance costs are low due to its simple design and durable parts.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also offers a 12-month warranty. It provides similar coverage to the Grom. Regular maintenance is easy and affordable. The bike’s design helps keep repair costs down over time.
Resale Value
The Honda Grom has strong resale value. Its popularity and reputation keep its demand high. Riders who upgrade often find it easy to sell their Grom at a good price.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also holds its value well. It has a loyal following and consistent demand. Riders can expect a reasonable resale price if they decide to sell later.
Pros and Cons Summary
Honda Grom
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Low seat height is comfortable for shorter riders.
- Offers a single-channel ABS model for better safety.
- Excellent fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs.
- Strong aftermarket support for customization.
Cons:
- Smaller fuel tank limits range.
- Slightly higher price than the Z125 Pro.
- Top speed is lower compared to the Z125 Pro.
Kawasaki Z125 Pro
Pros:
- Sporty design and sharp handling.
- Higher top speed for open roads.
- Larger fuel tank for longer rides.
- Cheaper price makes it budget-friendly.
- Lightweight and quick in city traffic.
Cons:
- No ABS option available.
- Narrow tires may feel less stable for some riders.
- Fewer aftermarket parts for customization.
Expert Reviews and User Feedback
Expert Opinions
Experts often praise the Honda Grom for its reliability. They highlight its strong engine and smooth handling. The bike’s low seat height makes it comfortable for new riders. Experts also value the ABS option, which adds an extra layer of safety. Its wide tires and balanced suspension get positive feedback for stability.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro receives praise for its sporty look. Experts like its quick handling and higher top speed. They mention its lightweight design, which feels agile on the road. While the lack of ABS is noted, they see it as a good option for experienced riders. The Z125 Pro’s affordable price is another strong point mentioned in reviews.
Owner Testimonials
Riders often share that the Honda Grom is fun and easy to ride. Many appreciate its fuel efficiency and low running costs. Customization is a popular topic, with owners enjoying the many aftermarket options. Shorter riders often mention the comfort provided by its lower seat.
Owners of the Kawasaki Z125 Pro talk about its speed and sharp handling. Many enjoy its sporty style and lightweight feel. Riders appreciate its larger fuel tank, which reduces stops during longer rides. Some mention that they wish it offered ABS, but they still value its overall performance.
Which Bike Is Right for You?
Urban Commuters
The Honda Grom works best for city rides. Its low seat and compact size make it easy to handle in traffic. The bike feels stable at slow speeds. Its fuel efficiency saves money on daily commutes. Riders looking for comfort in crowded streets often pick the Grom.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro also performs well in cities. Its lightweight frame makes it quick to navigate through tight spaces. The higher top speed helps on open stretches. It is a good choice for riders who want agility and a sporty feel.
Recreational Riders
The Honda Grom is a fun option for weekend rides. Its smooth handling makes it enjoyable on short trips. Many riders enjoy personalizing it for unique adventures. The Grom is perfect for those who value stability and comfort.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro feels more exciting for sporty rides. Its sharper handling and faster acceleration make it ideal for thrill-seekers. Riders often enjoy its speed and agility on longer routes.
Customization Enthusiasts
The Honda Grom has a larger market for aftermarket parts. Riders can find many ways to modify its looks and performance. From unique exhausts to custom seats, the options are almost endless. This makes it the better choice for riders who enjoy creative projects.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro offers fewer customization options. It is built for simplicity and function. Some riders may add personal touches, but the choices are more limited compared to the Grom.
Value Seekers
The Honda Grom offers reliability and low maintenance costs. Its strong resale value makes it a solid investment. Riders who want a durable bike for the long term often choose the Grom.
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro gives good value for its price. It costs less upfront and offers excellent performance. Riders who want a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality may find it ideal.
FAQs
What’s the main difference between Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro?
The Honda Grom focuses on comfort and stability. It has a lower seat and wider tires, making it easier to handle. The Kawasaki Z125 Pro feels sportier. It has sharper handling and a higher top speed, which appeals to riders who enjoy a more dynamic experience.
Which bike is faster, the Honda Grom or the Kawasaki Z125 Pro?
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro has a slightly higher top speed of around 64 mph, while the Honda Grom reaches about 62 mph. This difference is minimal and may not be noticeable in everyday riding.
How do the fuel economies of the Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro compare?
The Honda Grom offers impressive fuel efficiency, averaging around 134 miles per gallon. The Kawasaki Z125 Pro provides approximately 135.5 miles per gallon, which is slightly less than the Grom.
Which bike is more affordable?
The Kawasaki Z125 Pro is generally more affordable, with an MSRP starting at $3,399. The Honda Grom’s MSRP starts at $3,599. Prices can vary based on location and dealer.
