*New European model GROM
Higher RPM engine and 5-speed transmission
With the recent official announcement of the new GROM in Thailand and Europe, expectations are high for its introduction in Japan.
It's no secret that the initial GROM model went on sale in 2013, followed by the current model, which made its debut in 2016 with minor changes and became one of the most popular models in its class.
And this new model is the first full model change. The exterior has been refined, with a simple and fun retro-pop style. The side panels and side covers can be easily removed and reattached, making it easier to customize the vehicle.
The engine was also newly designed with a new bore and stroke. Whereas the previous model was 52.4mm x 57.9mm, the new model has a longer stroke of 50.0mm x 63.1mm. The compression ratio has also been increased from 9.3 to 10.0. Maximum power and torque values of 7.2kW / 7,250rpm and 10.5Nm / 5,500rpm are consistent with EURO5 (the current domestic version is 7.2kW / 7,000rpm and 11.0Nm / 5,250rpm, respectively), while the new model's power output and torque are similar to those of the previous model. This is a unique feature.
Of particular note is the change in transmission from a 4-speed to a 5-speed. This is expected to result in finer control of the revs and increased vehicle speed at higher revs.
The minimum ground clearance has been increased from 160 to 180 mm, while the seat height has been lowered by 4 mm to 761 mm. The fuel tank capacity has been increased from 5.5 to 6.0 liters. Incidentally, the car's weight has increased slightly by 1.3kg to 103kg.
In Europe and Thailand, the new model has been called the MSX125, but the new model will be called the "GROM" under the same name worldwide.
No word on the new model's domestic debut has been announced at this time, but judging from what we've seen so far, the specs are almost identical to those of the Thai and European models? It should be.
Pre-release of the new GROM Race Base Model
Here comes the good news. Honda Racing (HRC) has announced that they will be releasing a "GROM race base model" from March 2021.
Based on the new GROM, the new GROM is equipped with ECU, harnesses, and various switching switches from HRC kits, and is equipped with race-ready parts (cowl, step, muffler, etc.) developed by the HRC service shop. It will be sold at the shop as a complete vehicle.
[Related News]
◆ Honda Releases New GROM Race Base Model
At the same time, the HRC GROM Cup, a one-make race series, will be held at circuits around the country to give drivers the opportunity to experience the excitement of motorsports.
With this in mind, the new model has a higher revving engine, a 5-speed transmission, and easy detachment of the exterior. In other words, the new GROM and the new model will help popularize participatory motorsports as a hobby that can be enjoyed as well as a fun way to customize a motorcycle. We can't wait to see it make its debut in Japan.
