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Real Test: Honda GROM VS Kawasaki Z125
Hey everyone!
So with Kawasaki bringing a mini-machine to the market that was once all Honda’s, things have been up in a frenzy. Companies rushing to get in on the aftermarket scene, manufacturers leaking “spy shots” of other small CC bikes, and more importantly all the comparisons between the two. Let’s face it, both the Grom and Z125 are bikes anyone would be happy to own. Both bikes have their flaws, and both are very similar and different from each other in their own respective ways. A lot of first ride reviews are tough to read for many reasons. Like a car salesmen selling the newest car on the lot, it seems very much like a “brochure”. What type of brake fluid is used, type of ignition used, what the engine and oil pan are made from, and other useless information. In the end you are still left trying to figure out which bike suits you outside of a parking lot with cones.
Our review/test is just a little different and more “real-world” like. No demo bikes in a parking lot, no restrictions on how to treat them, and no information most of us can’t translate into usable advice. These bikes belong to us and as the saying goes – we will ride them like we stole ’em. So myself and my fellow Team Member Bryan decided to head out to Bushnell Motorsports Park and take these bikes out for a day at the track. Just two average guys who love motorcycles, track riding, and breaking stuff.
A little bit of information about each bike we used can be found below
HONDA GROM:
- Mileage: 2,4xx
- Exhaust: Stock exhaust with airbox mod
- Gearing: -1 in front sprocket
- Tires: Mitas Soft Compound Sizes 120/80/12(Rear) and 100/90/12(Front)
- Braking: Stock pads and calipers. Core Moto Brake Lines
- Seat Height: 29.7 in
KAWASAKI Z125
- Mileage: 400
- Exhaust: Stock system
- Gearing: Stock
- Tires: Dunlop TT93 Sizes 120/80/12(Rear) and 100/90/12(Front)
- Braking: Stock pads, calipers, and lines
- Seat Height: 31.7 in
To begin, you cannot go wrong with either bike. We had a blast and often found ourselves switching bikes to keep it fresh and exciting. But as Bryan was quoted saying, “There were definitely some areas that I found each bike was stronger in.” Right off of the bat when you’re looking at both bikes, the Z seems to be a bit taller and a bit more narrow. The Grom looks inviting and fun, the Z on the other hand looks like it’s ready to go shred some tires up. The Grom has low positioned rearsets that allow taller riders to have no issues at all. The Z sports rearsets that are about 2-3 inches higher and make riding this bike a little tougher if you are taller than 6′. Once you start riding, the two bikes couldn’t feel anymore different from each other with the exception of power (or lack of). Both bikes shift smoothly, are very peppy for 125CC machines, and can be dropped and will be ready to get back up and go. With both bikes weighing in just under 230 lbs, they are extremely easy to flick around and never feel like you’re not in control. An extended rider seat with room on the back for a passenger or small cargo, makes for quite the entertainment seeing some 2-up on one of these bikes. As Bryan said, “The brakes of each bike performed excellently throughout the day with very little fade from either. The Z’s brakes take a second to bite but once they do, the brakes felt very strong.I did notice I was able to get the Grom stopped quicker which may be due to the Core Moto Brake Lines installed”
One of the biggest differences in the bikes that both Bryan and myself noticed was suspension. The Groms stock suspension is border line horrible – and that’s being polite. The front forks tend to bottom out from time to time and rear shock is a complete pogo stick in any riding condition. The Z125 felt much more planted and in tune with the road leaving you wanting to go faster and smoother. Bryan wrapped up the day with the following.
“One last complaint, and probably my biggest issue with either of the bikes came down to vibrations. I could not run the Grom for more than 20-25 minutes without my hands going completely numb from the vibrations of the engine and this would be the deciding factor for me if I were to have to choose between the two. The vibrations were so intense that there was even a session going up against the Z that I had to retire from because I was worried I wouldn’t know how hard I was braking and I could potentially hit my coworker on his new beautiful Z. Overall I felt I was able to go slightly quicker on the Grom since I was able to hold my momentum just a tiny bit better. With that being said, with a slight change of foot position and handle bars, I think I would have been much faster on the Z just due to the fact that it felt that much more planted and stable with its stiffer suspension.”
We were able to get some private track time and ended up “racing” both of these guys against each other. The Z was slower off the line but ended up over-taking and coming in first in both races. We swapped bikes so it was fair and played quite the game of cat and mouse with both. (Video is at the bottom of the post)
When all was said and done we had a great time on both bikes. They’re both extremely inviting and I think it’s safe to say both will be around for a long time. It’s nice to see manufacturers not only producing these bikes but finally bringing them stateside. Hopefully that means the motorcycle industry as a whole will reap the benefits and us consumers at the bottom, get to have all the fun. When it comes to daily riding or any type of “commuting” these mini-machines are built to max out MPG with a couple dollars worth of gas but still be able to travel 60+MPH. Be sure to stop by your local dealer as soon as possible and check these bikes out in person. At a price point under your brand new 300CC bikes the Grom and Z125 are sure to be a huge hit on the street but not on your wallet. Be sure to check out the video below and some awesome shots we got courtesy of our buddy Gavin Bacon! Be sure to check out his page and give him a follow!
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Ride safe out there!
UPDATE!
We recently had the opportunity to pit the little Z125 against the 2017 Honda Grom at the track. We will be writing an in-depth article but for now, enjoy our newest video comparing the two!
When it will be launching in India and I want the parts will be available in India?
Hi there – Unfortunately we do not sell our parts to your country. Sorry about that!
Hello! My name is Valerie, My 13 going to be 14 year old wants a Grom an watches many stunt videos an thinks they are cool, but he went from wanting a motorcycle to back to a bigger dirt bike than what he had to a motorcycle an now to a Grom. I just don’t know which is better suited for him between the motorcycle an the Grom an we plan on getting him one this spring. Do you have any opinions suggestions or advisements? If so I’m anxiously waiting to hear your feed back!
Hi Valerie – Well, there’s a few things to take into consideration when making this big decision as a parent. What is his riding experience like, if any? The Grom and Z125 are perfect bikes as the weight is very manageable, the power is not extreme, and the top speed can’t get someone in too much trouble. Dirtbikes are great learning tools as well being that they can only be ridden off road and a dirtbike in the range of a 4-stroke 100cc-250cc will be pretty forgiving on the power. Introduce him into something smaller and let him hone in on his skill set. Emtpy parking lots, mini bike tracks, and even full-size motorcycle tracks will teach him things beyond the normal street riding. Once he’s ready to make the jump into a bigger CC bike or a full sized motorcycle, the fundamentals will be set in stone and everything else will come natural. I would highly recommend heading over to your nearest motorcycle dealership and letting him sit on a few different bikes to understand the riding position and weight associated with the different types of machines. Hope this helps!
Sorry, I am not good at choosing motor. I don’t even understand about your information of those bikes. I just want to know that, which machine is best between Honda Grom 2017 and Z125 2017? Or its machines are the same quality. Can those bikes ride for long road? 100 miles up…
Hi there – Both bikes are great and very similar in many ways. If you are a taller rider the Honda Grom may be a better fit. If you are smaller and want a bike with a more aggressive feel, the Z125 is your answer. You truly cannot go wrong with either. And yes, both bikes can travel over 100 miles on a single trip.
Hey My son is turning 12 and he is 5’2 would He be able to ride either bikes or would they be too big. Thanks
Hi there – The seat height on these bikes is around 28 inches so if his inseam is taller than that, he should be able to flat foot (touch the ground) just fine. However, I’m not familiar with laws in your area so I would highly recommend checking the legality of having your son ride one of these bikes on public roads. Both bikes have a very forgiving throttle and shouldn’t over-power a new rider.
Are those two motorcycle (grommets and z125) available in the Philippines? Including their parts?
Both of these motorcycles should be available in the Philippines but might be advertised under different names. Unfortunately we do not ship our parts to that location.
Liked your read and comments. Have not visited dealer for the Z but have found locating a Grom next to impossible.
Hopefully you’re able to find one locally because these bikes are a TON of fun!
Hi there. I’m planning to buy one of these bikes, Im 5’8 and weight 135lbs Im curious if these bikes wont be too small for me, i know wheels are smaller than regular motorcycle, and I’m also planning to travel over 130miles for a trip, and get on highway that min speed is 45 and max is 75, however if ill be able to reach and hold about 65mph on one of these bikes? Otherwise I’ll be more focused on bigger engine like 250 up to 500cc, but still dont know which one is best. i like Grom and z125. Im trying to keep in my budget of 3000 bucks
Hi Sebastian! Thanks for reaching out to us and I will try and share some very useful knowledge with you. Keep in mind, I personally own the Z125 and am the exact body type as you. (+ about 15 lbs, damn tacos are my weakness) I will also mention my coworker owns a Grom and he’s about 6 foot even and about 150lbs.
In any event, I think these bikes would be able to handle anything you can throw at them. We ride our bikes daily and I’ve managed to rack up about 6k miles in less than a year and have even ridden it on the highway at a constant 66mph. My coworker Jon on the other hand, did a few mods to his Grom including intake, exhaust, and injector, and can get up to about 75mph just fine. In short, these bikes are absolutely awesome and budget friendly. Even if you want to try and squeeze out as much power as possible, modifications are relatively inexpensive and easy to do yourself. I say go for it, learn the bike well and just have fun!
Just got one love it!!!
Great to hear Miles! Be sure to like us on Facebook and Instagram to share some pictures with us when you can!
What kind of MPGs are you getting with mods and would it work for a larger rider say 6’4″ and around 250 lbs. It sounds like an inexpensive and fun project that can work as a cheap commuter.
Hi JVon! We generally get anywhere from 95-110 mpg depending on how much hooligan riding we participate in.
What are the service schedule for each bike ( like the valve adjustment intervals) and does the Honda Grom has a sealed o-ring chain….. because I know the Z125 does?
Thanks you
What are the service schedule for each bike ( like the valve adjustment intervals) and does the Honda Grom has a sealed o-ring chain….. because I know the Z125 does?
Thanks,
I’m 13 right now, almost 14, and I have almost zero bike experience (mom won’t even let me get a mini motorbike to learn). I was wondering if these are good starter bikes and what age you are legally allowed to ride them (on the street). I’m currently more of a fan of the grom, but I would like your professional input.
Hi there! These bikes are great beginner bikes and some that you can’t really get into too much trouble with. You are legally allowed to ride them in the street and in fact, I use my Z125 as a daily commuter since I live fairly close to work. I think as long as the respect for any machine and the road is there, any bike can be a great motorcycle for you. It all depends on budget, personal preference, and how you fit on the bike. I hope this helps!
You people just don’t understand….Kawasaki has always had ram induction and off the line and dynos wont reveal the real power lurking within.
Hello there and loving the advice and reviews you have been giving. My partner and I are after a bike that will fit in our truck (so it needs to be small and light as space is limited and the loading bay is quite high) We want the bike just for sight seeing in towns when travelling (instead of driving a 6 tonne truck all over the place). I am 6′ and 190 lbs my wife is 5’6 and 150 lbs. Which would suit us best for 2 up riding around small country towns. (35 mph speed limit). + maybe a little bit of fanging (hooligan riding) around with my mates. I am leaning towards the Z but the slightly longer pegs on the Grom are attractive. Any advice would be great.
Hi Chad! Being that you are on the taller side of things I would recommend the Grom unless you are okay with purchasing aftermarket rearsets and handlebars for the Z. The higher footrest position on the Z125 causes taller people to run into issues when the handlebars are turned. As far as riding two up, both bikes can handle it with ease although the stock suspension on the Z may be a little stiffer which would be ideal. If you go with either, I would personally recommend aftermarket suspension regardless.
how far does z125 go? can it travel in 500 miles distance? i am fr asia and the climate here is so hot that the air cooled engine might not be working in this kind of enviroment i wanna know if i can travel long distance using this z125? thanks
As long as the bike is well maintained, it shouldn’t run into any issues with traveling that far. (Although the seat isn’t the most comfortable)
which bike would be a better fit for me. i’m a girl 15 turning ?16 at 5’2 110lbs and i just went a bike i’ll feel comfortable and safe on going places and not look goofy on it. also what is the top speed for both, and how many miles does the Z125 go on 1 full tank.
Hi Cat! To be completely honest, you cannot go wrong with either choice. I would probably recommend the GROM a little more due to the slightly lower seat height and lower footrest position. Both bikes have a top speed over 60pmh and can get over 100 miles to the gallon. I would suggest going to your local motorcycle dealer and sitting on both to see which you prefer more.
Hi,
I’m trying to figure out which bike to get my husband. He is a bigger guy around the 235-240lb and about 5″11. What bike do you think would be best for him?
Hi Jessica – Being that he is a taller person I would definitely recommend the GROM but keep in mind, the suspension may be a little soft for him as it is for most.
There is definately a lot to know about this
topic. I like all of the points you’ve made.
Hi my friend! I want to say that this article is amazing, great written and come with almost
all vital infos. I’d like to see more posts like this .
Did you get a knee down on either bike? What would be required to achieve that?
We are pretty easily able to get a knee down on both bikes without issue. It takes practice, proper body position and movement, and retaining sped through corners. Getting your knee down is only have the half the battle and shouldn’t be an identifier to any sort of riding skill level. If you look at some of the top-level racers, they are at max lean angle and trying to purposely avoid contacting their knee to the track surface. Just have fun and practice and it will come naturally!
My son is 13. He has a Baja Warrior Mini motorcycle now and he does wheelies and tricks on it. The one he has now has wide tires and it’s hard for him to do somethings on it. He has out grown it skill wise.. LOL for sure. He is wanting something bigger to do tricks on and we are in market to buy him something. I wanted to know if both of these are good for trick bikes and can you get all the accessories for them such as a wheelie bar? Do you think with the size of these he will out grow them quickly?
I think the easiest answer to all of your questions is YES! Both bikes are great for stunting and there are countless companies out on the market that design and offer wheelie bars, 12 o’clock bars, cages, and footpegs. We’ve seen teenagers and people in their 50’s and 60’s stunting and racing these bikes with nothing but smiles. He may outgrow the bike size-wise but will more than likely keep it for years to come!
I was just wondering which one is the better bike cause I have been trying to do some research on both bikes but I cant finding anything that will help me.
It’s all total preference. Both bikes are very similar and both have their own pros and cons. We would recommend visiting a dealership that has both and take a seat on each to see which is more comfortable for you personally. Then take into consideration your budget and what direction you plan on building the bike (aftermarket parts availability) and make an educated purchase. We love both bikes equally!
Hello! I take a 77 mile trip home every couple of weeks. I was wondering which bike would be the best for this. Thank you!
I would suggest the Grom over the Z125 purely for the slightly higher top speed.
I’m about to buy a new Z125 and I will want to replace the stock tires right off the bat. I noticed you put on the Dunlop TT93’s. How do you like those? Have you ever ridden them in the wet? In the cold?
There aren’t good tires offered in the Z’s sizes. So far, I’ve found the Michelin City Grip, Dunlop TT93, and Kenda Kwick KD1. I want something sticky and sporty, but am worried that a race tire like the TT93 won’t work well on cooler and wetter days on the street.
Typo: I meant to say “There are only a few good tires offered in the Z’s sizes.”
Hello! realistically if I don’t ride in the rain how often would I need to adjust, oil, and clean the chain. Thanks
Hello! My name is Dalton and i was wondering i have riding experience but I don’t know what to get they both cost about the same. I was looking at the MPG on each bike and they are about the same. I just want something to have fun on do tricks and just cruise with my buddy’s. Which would you recommend?
To be completely honest, the Grom might be the best route. It has the most aftermarket support, a little bit higher of a top-end, and continues to get updated. However, we would say go to a dealership and sit on both before making a decision!