Honda Navi vs Honda Grom – Which One Should You Buy?

Are you dreaming of zipping around town on a fun, pint-sized motorcycle? Then you’ve probably come across the Honda Navi and the Honda Grom — two bikes that are tiny in size but big on character. These two may look like siblings at first glance, but they couldn’t be more different once you take them for a spin. Whether you’re just starting out and want something simple, or you’re after a bike with a little more edge, I’m here to give you the full scoop. So, Honda Navi vs Grom — which one has your name written all over it? Let’s dive in and figure it out together!

Key Specifications – Honda Navi vs Grom

Engine and Performance – Honda Navi vs Grom

Let’s start with what’s under the hood — or in this case, the frame. Both the Honda Navi and the Grom are part of Honda’s miniMOTO lineup, which means they’re designed for easy riding and lots of fun. But they have some key differences when it comes to their engines.

Honda Navi: The Honda Navi is equipped with a 109cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It’s a small engine, but don’t let that fool you. It’s perfect for city rides and daily commutes. The Navi’s engine produces about 7.8 horsepower, which is enough to hit a top speed of around 55 mph. It’s not built for racing, but it’s fantastic for zipping through traffic. Plus, with a fuel economy of roughly 110 miles per gallon, you’ll save a lot on gas.

Honda Grom: On the other hand, the Honda Grom packs a bit more punch with its 125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It produces 9.7 horsepower, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 62 mph. This makes the Grom a bit faster and more powerful than the Navi. Its fuel economy is impressive too, averaging about 134 miles per gallon. The Grom’s engine offers a bit more oomph, making it a favorite for riders who want a bit more excitement.

Which is better? If you want simplicity and an easy ride, the Navi’s engine and automatic transmission are hard to beat. But if you’re looking for more power and control, the Grom’s manual transmission and bigger engine offer a more thrilling experience.

Transmission and Handling

When it comes to transmission, the Navi and Grom couldn’t be more different. This is a big factor in deciding which bike suits your style.

Honda Navi: The Navi features an automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which is a game-changer for beginners or anyone who prefers an easy ride. You don’t need to worry about shifting gears — just twist the throttle and go. This makes the Navi super accessible, even for someone who’s never ridden a motorcycle before. It’s perfect for city riding where you’re stopping and starting a lot.

Honda Grom: The Grom, on the other hand, has a 4-speed manual transmission. This means you have to shift gears yourself, which can be a lot of fun if you enjoy a more hands-on riding experience. It gives you greater control over the bike, especially when you want to push it to its limits. However, if you’re not used to manual transmissions, there can be a bit of a learning curve.

Which is better? If you prefer simplicity and ease of use, go with the Navi. If you love the feeling of shifting gears and want a bit more involvement in your ride, the Grom is your bike.

Design and Features

Looks matter, especially when you’re choosing a bike you’ll ride around town. The Navi and Grom have distinct designs that appeal to different tastes.

Honda Navi: The Navi has a quirky, retro-inspired design that stands out. It looks a bit like a scooter but has the heart of a motorcycle. One unique feature is its built-in storage compartment, which is super handy for carrying your essentials. It has an analog speedometer, giving it a classic feel.

Honda Grom: The Grom’s design is sporty and sleek. It has a more modern look, with sharp lines and a digital instrument cluster that displays speed, fuel, and other important information. The Grom also features an LED headlight, which not only looks cool but also improves visibility at night.

Which is better? This really comes down to personal preference. If you like a classic, functional design, the Navi is great. If you want something sportier and more high-tech, the Grom has the edge.

Suspension and Braking

When it comes to suspension and braking, both bikes offer a smooth ride, but there are some notable differences.

Honda Navi: The Navi has a telescopic inverted fork in the front and a single shock at the rear. The suspension is good for everyday city rides but can feel a bit stiff on bumpy roads. The brakes are drum brakes, both front and rear, which are adequate for the bike’s speed and size but may not offer the stopping power of disc brakes.

Honda Grom: The Grom steps it up with an inverted front fork and a rear mono-shock, offering better stability and a smoother ride over uneven surfaces. It also comes with disc brakes at both ends, providing stronger and more reliable braking, which can be especially important if you’re riding at higher speeds.

Which is better? The Grom has a clear advantage here, especially if you plan to take it on more challenging roads or want better overall handling and braking performance.

Pricing and Value – Honda Navi vs Grom

Let’s talk numbers. One of the biggest factors in choosing a bike is your budget.

Honda Navi: The Navi is one of the most affordable mini bikes on the market, with a starting MSRP of $1,807. It’s an excellent value for what you get, especially if you’re looking for a simple, reliable ride without breaking the bank.

Honda Grom: The Grom is a bit pricier, starting at $3,499. You’re paying for a larger engine, better suspension, and more advanced features. It’s worth the extra cost if you want a bike that’s more versatile and fun to ride.

Which is better? If budget is your main concern, the Navi wins. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a higher-performing bike, the Grom is worth the investment.

Target Audience

Honda Navi: The Navi is perfect for beginners and casual riders. It’s designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it a great choice for city commuters or anyone who wants a hassle-free ride. It’s also ideal for riders who prefer automatic transmissions.

Honda Grom: The Grom appeals to a broader audience, including experienced riders looking for a fun, agile bike. It’s great for both city riding and weekend adventures. The manual transmission also makes it a favorite for those who enjoy a more hands-on riding experience.

Conclusion: Navi or Grom — Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Honda Navi and the Honda Grom comes down to your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a bike. If you want something affordable, simple, and easy to ride, go for the Navi. It’s great for beginners and city commuters. But if you’re looking for more power, control, and features, the Grom is a fantastic choice for those who want a bit more excitement.

In the end, both bikes offer something unique, and you can’t go wrong with either. It’s all about finding the right fit for your riding style and needs.

If you’re comparing mini bikes and want to see how the Honda Grom stacks up against other popular models, don’t miss our detailed comparison of the Honda Ruckus vs Grom. It’s a great read if you’re also considering the unique, scooter-style design of the Ruckus and how it differs from the sporty Grom.

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