Honda Monkey vs Grom – Which Mini Bike Is Right for You?

Honda has a knack for creating bikes that stand out. The Monkey and the Grom are two perfect examples. These mini motorcycles might be small in size, but they are big on personality. Whether you’re riding for fun, commuting, or just exploring, these bikes turn heads and spark conversations.

The Monkey brings a retro vibe with its nostalgic design, while the Grom screams modern and sporty. Both models pack 125cc engines and promise a good time on the road. But which one is the better pick? It depends on what you need and how you plan to ride. Let’s dive in and compare these two iconic bikes.

Historical Background

The Honda Monkey has been around for decades. It first appeared in the 1960s as a small, fun bike. Its unique look and easy handling made it popular worldwide. People loved its charm. Over the years, Honda kept improving it, but the classic retro style stayed the same.

The Grom is newer. Honda launched it in 2014. It quickly became a favorite for young riders. Its sporty design and playful nature made it a hit. Riders enjoyed how easy it was to ride. It offered a mix of performance and fun in a small package.

Both bikes come from Honda’s love for building reliable and exciting motorcycles. The Monkey appeals to those who enjoy old-school vibes. The Grom attracts those who prefer a modern touch.

Honda Monkey vs Grom Comparison Table

Design and Styling – Honda Monkey vs Grom

Design is one of the biggest differences between the Honda Monkey and the Grom. These bikes may share some parts and a similar size, but they look completely different.

Honda Monkey

The Honda Monkey takes inspiration from its roots in the 1960s. It’s all about retro charm. The round headlight is a standout feature, giving it that old-school vibe. Chrome accents around the headlight and on other parts of the bike add a polished touch. The handlebars sit high, creating a fun, upright riding position. The seat is thick and cushioned, which makes it look and feel like a classic. Its teardrop-shaped fuel tank and curved frame complete the vintage look. For people who love timeless designs, the Monkey is a clear winner. The Monkey often comes in bright, retro-inspired colors, like banana yellow or pearl nebula red. These shades highlight its playful and nostalgic character. The Monkey looks friendly and approachable. It’s the kind of bike that makes people smile just by seeing it.

Honda Grom

The Honda Grom leans toward a sporty, modern style. Its sharp lines and angular bodywork give it a bold, aggressive look. The headlight is square and split into sections, a futuristic design choice. The seat is flat and minimalist, matching its sleek profile. The exhaust is tucked neatly under the body, adding to its streamlined appearance. Everything about the Grom screams fun and agility. It’s a bike for those who prefer edgy designs. The Grom offers more contemporary and bold colors, including matte finishes, which enhance its sporty appeal. The Grom, on the other hand, has a street-smart attitude. It looks like it’s ready to dart through city traffic or take sharp corners with ease.

Each design has its fan base. The Monkey attracts riders who want a bike that stands out with a vintage feel. The Grom appeals to those who want a bike that looks fast and modern. Your choice will depend on what speaks to you more: nostalgia or a contemporary edge.

Engine and Performance

Both the Honda Monkey and Grom have 125cc engines. These engines are small but powerful enough for fun rides. They are perfect for short trips or cruising around town. Both bikes use a single-cylinder engine, which keeps things simple and reliable.

The Monkey’s engine is smooth and steady. It delivers power gently, which makes it great for relaxed rides. You can enjoy the road without feeling rushed. Its design focuses more on comfort than speed. This makes it a good option for those who want to take it easy.

The Grom has a sportier feel. Its engine responds quickly, giving it a lively performance. The Grom can pick up speed faster than the Monkey. This makes it better for riders who want a bit of excitement. You can feel its energy every time you twist the throttle.

Both bikes come with a 5-speed transmission. This upgrade lets you shift gears smoothly and gives you more control. It also helps both bikes handle different road conditions easily. Whether you are riding in the city or on open roads, these engines perform well.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point. Both the Monkey and Grom are light on fuel. They can go long distances without needing to stop at the gas station often. This makes them affordable to ride and maintain.

Top speed varies slightly. The Grom can reach speeds up to 60 mph or a little more, while the Monkey stays close to 55-58 mph. The difference might not seem big, but it can matter for those who enjoy a faster ride.

Dimensions and Weight

Size plays a big role in how a bike feels. Both the Honda Monkey and the Grom are compact, but they have different shapes and weights that affect their performance.

The Monkey is slightly taller. It has a seat height of 30.5 inches. This makes it comfortable for most riders. The higher seat gives you a good view of the road. The bike’s overall length is 68.9 inches, making it easy to handle. The handlebars are wide, giving you good control on curves or uneven roads.

The Grom sits a little lower. Its seat height is 30 inches, which makes it feel sporty and grounded. The shorter height is good for riders who want a firm connection with the road. At 69.3 inches long, it is just a bit longer than the Monkey. Its narrower handlebars make it feel more agile in tight spaces.

Weight also matters. The Monkey weighs around 231 pounds. This gives it a sturdy feel without being heavy. Its extra weight helps with stability, especially at slower speeds. The Grom is lighter at 227 pounds. This makes it quick and nimble. Riders often notice how easy it is to weave through traffic or take sharp turns on the Grom.

Both bikes are small enough to park anywhere. They fit easily in tight spaces, making them great for city use. The size and weight differences may seem small on paper, but you can feel them when you ride. The Monkey feels steady and comfortable. The Grom feels fast and light.

Suspension and Handling

Suspension is what keeps a bike stable on bumpy roads. It helps absorb shocks and makes your ride smooth. Both the Honda Monkey and the Grom have strong suspension systems, but they are designed differently.

The Monkey uses a twin-shock rear suspension. This means there are two shocks at the back. These shocks work together to give a smooth ride. They handle rough roads well. The front of the Monkey has upside-down forks. These forks make it easy to ride over bumps without feeling every little bump. This setup is great for comfort and balance.

The Grom has a single-shock rear suspension. This setup makes it feel lighter and more sporty. The rear shock absorbs bumps well but keeps the bike firm during sharp turns. The front also uses upside-down forks. These forks give good support when braking or taking tight corners. The Grom feels quick and responsive because of this.

Both bikes are stable, but they feel different to ride. The Monkey is more relaxed. It feels soft and steady, even on uneven paths. The Grom feels sharp and quick. It moves fast and reacts to your inputs instantly.

The wheel size also affects handling. Both bikes have 12-inch wheels, but the tires on the Monkey are slightly wider. This adds to its stability and comfort. The Grom’s tires are slimmer, which makes it better for fast turns and quick maneuvers.

Braking Systems

Brakes are one of the most important parts of a bike. They keep you safe and give you control. Both the Honda Monkey and the Grom come with high-quality braking systems, but there are some key differences.

The Monkey uses disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. Disc brakes work well in all weather conditions. They are reliable and stop the bike smoothly. The Monkey also offers an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as an option. ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking during sudden stops. This is especially helpful on slippery roads.

The Grom also has disc brakes on both wheels. These brakes are sharp and provide quick stopping power. Like the Monkey, the Grom offers ABS on some models. The ABS system on the Grom is designed to work well in fast, sporty rides. It helps keep the bike steady during emergency braking.

Both bikes have small 12-inch wheels, which affect how the brakes feel. Smaller wheels require more precise braking. Disc brakes on both bikes handle this well. The ABS option adds an extra layer of safety, especially for new riders or those riding in wet conditions.

The difference in braking performance is subtle. The Monkey’s brakes feel smooth and steady. The Grom’s brakes feel sharp and responsive. Riders who value safety and comfort may prefer the Monkey. Those who like quick stops and sporty handling may choose the Grom.

Comfort and Ergonomics – Honda Monkey vs Grom

Comfort matters a lot while riding. Both the Honda Monkey and the Grom are built for fun, but their comfort levels are different. These differences can help riders decide which bike suits them best.

The Monkey has a thick, padded seat. This seat is wide and soft, making long rides easy. The seat height is slightly higher, at 30.5 inches. This position keeps your back straight and your arms relaxed. The handlebars are raised, so you don’t have to lean forward. This setup feels natural and easy on the body, especially for casual rides.

The Grom has a flatter seat. It is thinner and firmer than the Monkey’s seat. The seat height is 30 inches, which feels lower and sportier. The handlebars are placed lower, encouraging a forward-leaning position. This design makes the Grom feel more aggressive. It is better for short, quick rides rather than long journeys.

The footpeg placement also makes a difference. The Monkey’s footpegs are slightly forward. This gives more room for your legs. It feels open and relaxed. The Grom’s footpegs are closer to the rider, making the position tighter. This gives more control during sporty maneuvers.

Your height can also affect comfort. Taller riders may feel more at ease on the Monkey because of its higher seat and spacious design. Shorter riders might prefer the Grom, as it sits lower and feels compact.

Both bikes are small, which makes them easy to handle in traffic or tight spaces. Their lightweight frames are also easy to move around. But comfort depends on the type of ride. The Monkey feels better for calm, long rides. The Grom suits riders who want an active, sporty experience.

Features and Technology

Both the Honda Monkey and the Grom have modern features. These features make riding fun and easy. Let’s take a closer look at what each bike offers.

The Monkey has a digital display. The screen shows basic information like speed, fuel level, and gear position. It is small but clear. The bike also has LED lights. These lights are bright and help you see clearly at night. The Monkey’s retro design blends well with its modern tech, keeping the classic look while offering useful updates.

The Grom also has a digital display. The layout is clean and easy to read. It shows important details like speed, fuel level, and trip distance. The Grom’s LED lights are stylish and powerful. They give the bike a sharp and modern feel. The Grom also includes a feature that allows you to remove the body panels. This makes it easier to customize the bike to your liking.

Both bikes come with an electric start. You press a button, and the engine comes to life instantly. This is much easier than using a kick-start system. Both models also have a key ignition for added security.

The Monkey focuses on simplicity and style. It includes features that are easy to use and reliable. The Grom leans more towards sport and versatility. It offers some unique touches for riders who like to customize their bikes.

Pricing and Value

Price is a big factor when deciding between the Honda Monkey and the Grom. Both bikes are affordable, but their prices reflect their unique features and designs.

The Honda Monkey usually costs a little more than the Grom. This is because of its retro style and premium touches, like chrome accents and the thick, cushioned seat. The Monkey’s nostalgic charm and attention to detail make it a favorite for riders who love vintage designs. The extra cost feels worth it if style and comfort are your priority.

The Grom is slightly cheaper. It offers great value for those who want a modern, sporty bike. It skips the retro details and focuses on performance and customization. The Grom’s lower price makes it a good option for budget-conscious riders who still want a fun and capable bike.

Both bikes have optional ABS versions. Models with ABS cost a bit more, but the added safety makes it a smart investment for many riders. Whether you pick the Monkey or the Grom, the ABS feature can be a great addition, especially for new riders.

Another thing to think about is resale value. The Monkey tends to hold its value well because of its unique design and limited production numbers. The Grom also has good resale value, thanks to its popularity among young riders and urban commuters.

Both bikes are fuel-efficient, so you won’t spend much on gas. Maintenance costs are also low. Honda bikes are known for their reliability, so you can expect these models to last a long time without major issues.

The price difference between the Monkey and the Grom is small. The choice depends on what matters most to you. The Monkey offers classic charm and comfort. The Grom provides modern style and sporty performance. Both are great buys for anyone looking for a fun, easy-to-ride motorcycle.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The Honda Monkey and Grom are fun bikes, but they appeal to different riders. Each bike fits specific needs and riding styles. Knowing what you want can help you decide which one suits you best.

The Monkey is great for riders who love style and comfort. Its retro design attracts people who want a bike that stands out. It’s also good for casual rides. If you enjoy relaxing trips through town or quiet country roads, the Monkey feels perfect. It’s not about speed but about enjoying the journey.

The Grom is built for energy and action. It’s ideal for young riders or anyone who wants a sporty, modern bike. It handles tight city streets and quick maneuvers with ease. The Grom is also popular with riders who like to customize their bikes. The body panels are easy to change, making it fun to personalize.

Both bikes are small and lightweight. This makes them great for beginners. They are easy to control and park. They’re also good for experienced riders who want a second bike for fun or commuting.

For urban riders, both bikes perform well. The Monkey feels stable and relaxed in city traffic. The Grom is more agile and quick, which makes it great for weaving through tight spots.

Riders who like exploring off the beaten path may prefer the Monkey. Its wide tires and smooth suspension handle rougher roads comfortably. The Grom is better for fast, flat roads. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy zipping through open streets or testing its sporty side.

Conclusion

Deciding between the Honda Monkey and the Grom depends on what you want from your ride. Both bikes are compact, easy to handle, and full of personality. They share the same reliable 125cc engine, making them perfect for city rides and short trips. Yet, they offer very different experiences.

The Monkey is for riders who value comfort and a unique retro style. Its classic design, padded seat, and smooth suspension make it perfect for relaxed and enjoyable rides. It’s a bike that stands out and brings a sense of nostalgia.

The Grom, on the other hand, is sporty and modern. Its sharp design, quick handling, and responsive performance appeal to riders who want energy and speed. It’s also a favorite for customization, allowing you to make it truly your own.

Both bikes are great for beginners, thanks to their lightweight and user-friendly features. They’re also loved by experienced riders looking for something fun and practical. Whether you choose the Monkey or the Grom, you’re getting a reliable bike with Honda’s trusted quality.

Take a look at your riding style and preferences. If you love vintage charm and relaxed rides, the Monkey is a perfect fit. If you prefer a sporty, modern feel with a touch of excitement, the Grom is the way to go. Either choice will bring plenty of fun and adventure.

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