2014 Honda Grom motorcycle is a 125cc-shot of awesome [w/video]

Wed, 15 May 2013

My very first turn at the handlebars of a motorcycle came courtesy of an MSF Honda CB125. Despite the fact that it wore a very stern sticker on the tank warning all who rode that it was for instructional purposes only and not for legal sale, I wanted nothing more than to ride it past the cones of my license test and straight home. There was just something about the lightweight, low-power machine that just felt right. Now Honda is giving American buyers the chance to take home something similar. Meet the Grom. Yes, it's basically a sexed-up scooter, but that's fine by me.

There's a fuel-injected 125cc single pushing the fat-tired bike around, and a four-speed gearbox handles shifting duty.The smallish 12-inch wheels give the Grom a bit of a goofball appearance, but the handsome bodywork and gold forks help offset the look. Something tells me this joker is more fun than should be legal. Check out a fun video of the bike in action by scrolling down, and while you're there, you'll find a full press release on all of the new Honda powersports models, including the Grom. You can also head over to the Honda consumer site for more information. The bike will land in showrooms this August with an MSRP of $2,999.

More All-New Models Join the 2014 Honda Lineup

05/14/2013 - Torrance, CA

The exciting 2014 model year continues as American Honda introduces four brand-new models that clearly demonstrate the incredibly wide reach of Honda engineering; this is the kind of innovation Honda enthusiasts have come to expect over the years. In addition to these all-new models, this announcement also includes a number of successful and favorite returning models.

"This is really a fun time for Honda fans, as we unveil these four incredibly cool all-new machines for 2014 that reach out to entirely different segments of the market," said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. "This introduction serves as a perfect example of what 2014 is going to be like for Honda, as we continue to bring diverse and completely new concepts to riders, no matter what kind of machines they might favor.

"Earlier this year we introduced the first of our new side-by-side Pioneer line, the 700-4, and now we're announcing our second model to the Pioneer line: the tough and hard-working Pioneer 700 side-by-side that's fully featured and will be priced competitively. Next up is the friendly and fun-loving Grom, an easy-to-handle package that makes you grin when you see it and keeps you grinning as you ride. And we have the impressive new Forza scooter, a very able 300-class machine with strong performance and economical operation for solo riding or two-up travel. We also have an awesome all-new motocross machine, the CRF250R, which has been completely redesigned for 2014 along the lines of the new-generation CRF450R.

"These four new models along with more Honda favorites returning for the new model year demonstrate that Honda is on the move for 2014. We'll be bringing you even more exciting news in the coming months, so keep your eyes on Honda."

Pioneer 700
In 2014, Honda's Pioneer™ 700 sets the standard as the ultimate in hard-working, hard-playing side-by-sides. Whether you're off to the job site or a weekend adventure in the woods, this newest version carries two people and a load of gear and supplies-up to 1000 pounds-to those spots that are especially tough to reach. Quick acceleration, good top speed and smooth-riding long-travel suspension are some of the keys to what makes the Pioneer 700 so special. The handy tilt bed adds lots of versatility, and being a Honda, it also features industry-leading safety features-plus outstanding value. Available in three colors, Red, Olive and the new Honda-designed and trademarked Honda Phantom Camo™, this workhorse of a machine can also be dressed up, modified and personalized by choosing from the full line of more than 50 Honda Genuine Accessories/Honda Signature Accessories. Colors: Honda Phantom Camo, Olive, Red; Price: TBD; Availability: September
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/pioneer-700.aspx

Grom
Okay, admit it: When you first look at the sporty and compact Grom™ you just have to smile. And no matter how long you've been riding, you just want to throw a leg over this bike and twist the throttle. It's an excellent fit for both new and experienced riders, but to Gen Y buyers in particular the Grom carries a bit of attitude while promising fun times: the compact frame size, low seat, inverted front fork and hydraulic disc brakes make this the real deal. The fuel-injected 125cc engine delivers lots of torque, the 4-speed manual transmission works just like any other full-sized bike, the maneuverability and handling make it a joy to ride, and there's even room for a passenger. Factor in its efficient size with an affordable price, and there's just no way you can pass up this chance to get out and ride. Because no matter who you are, the Grom will keep you smiling, ride after ride. Colors: Pearl Red, Metallic Black; Price: $2999; Availability: August
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/grom.aspx

Forza
The Forza™ is a mid-displacement machine that boasts some pretty high-tech credentials: a fuel-injected liquid-cooled 300-class engine with a single overhead camshaft and four-valve head with sophisticated roller rocker arms. That all adds up to a ride that's big enough for extended rides for two, but versatile, practical and economical enough to keep transportation costs way down. Color: Pearl Red; Price: $5599, $6099 for Combined ABS model; Availability: July
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/forza.aspx

CRF250R
Like the new-generation CRF450R that debuted last year, this 2014 CRF250R launches 250-class motocross design up to the next level. Featuring an all-new engine and rolling chassis, this newest CRF250R has been designed specifically for Generation Scrub, with all the technological advancements that Honda engineering can bring to bear. The all-new frame is designed to lower the bike's center of gravity and it also incorporates a dual-muffler exhaust system to further sharpen handling by centralizing the bike's mass. And that makes a decidedly flickable machine even more nimble than ever before. A thoroughly revised engine adds a big load of midrange punch, thanks to a new cylinder head, new piston, higher compression ratio, plus a new dual-timing fuel injection system, and a new transmission that adds toughness and durability to the overall package. Put it all together, and the 2014 CRF250R adds up to be the hottest 250 MX bike on the track, one that will continue Honda's championship-winning records in the class. Color: Red; Price: TBD; Availability: September
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/crf250r.aspx

CRF450R
Introduced in 2013, the new-generation CRF450R has already proven itself a winner at the highest levels of racing. And that's no surprise. This awe-inspiring racing machine features a rolling chassis fully focused on meeting the needs of today's scrub generation of riders via an aluminum frame along with an innovative suspension package, plus a strategically engineered compact dual-muffler exhaust system that tucks in closely to the center of mass. Designed from the ground up as a total package that would be eminently flickable, responsive and lightweight, every element in the CRF450R chassis has been focused on attaining a low center of gravity along with class-leading mass centralization. For 2014, new intake and exhaust ports, new Dual-Timing fuel injection and redesigned muffler internals boost torque output and increase throttle response. Also, in the suspension department, revised internals in the KYB PSF® (Pneumatic Spring Fork) yield improved damping response for improved bump performance. As before, the advantages to the KYB PSF include significantly lighter weight since it uses air in place of traditional steel springs, and the design also allows incorporation of a larger 32mm cartridge damper piston for superb fork action. Color: Red; Price: TBD; Availability: August
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/crf450r.aspx

CRF150R/CRF150RB
The motocross stars of tomorrow are winning today on the Honda CRF150R/CRF150RB. This is one potent full-on racing machine, featuring a high-output 149cc liquid-cooled four-valve four-stroke engine with exceptional torque and drivability throughout the powerband. The championship-caliber chassis includes race-tuned suspension components with plenty of travel front and rear, all set to take on the toughest tracks. Over the years and all around the country, the CRF150R/CRF150RB has won tons of championships at the highest levels of amateur racing. And that makes it the proven choice for competitors who are ready to take their racing up to the next level. Color: Red; Price: TBD; Availability: September
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/crf150r.aspx

CRF250L
Armed with the CRF250L, you're more than ready to take on exciting off-road challenges without giving up street-riding accommodations. This handy dual-sport machine is powered by a compact and sophisticated liquid-cooled DOHC 249cc single-cylinder four-stroke powerplant that produces smooth and consistent torque at low rpm to aid off-road work, yet the short-stroke engine also spins up excellent high-rpm performance for the street. All through the rev range, the CRF250L pumps out a well-balanced and very capable level of power. Its off-road-oriented chassis, which includes a long-travel 43mm inverted fork and single-shock Pro-Link® rear suspension, makes it equally at home on city streets or country trails. And with styling cues carried over from Honda's legendary CRF® motocross bikes, the CRF250L offers the full package, whether the day calls for a weekday commute or genuine dual-sport adventure. Color: Red; Price: TBD; Availability: June
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/crf250l.aspx

FourTrax Rincon
The legendary FourTrax® Rincon® tops Honda's line of ATVs, thanks to stellar features that include a powerful 675cc engine, independent rear suspension, electronic fuel injection, automotive-style Honda automatic transmission that features a hydraulic torque converter, along with front and rear disc brakes and more. This popular choice comes with a host of features that all come together to place the Rincon in a class of one. New color for 2014 includes Beige with Black wheels. Colors: Beige, Olive, Red; Price: $9199; Availability: August
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/fourtrax-rincon.aspx

FourTrax Foreman Rubicon
For years the FourTrax® Foreman® Rubicon™ has stood tall as a favorite among riders who demand an especially capable ATV, as it built up an iconic reputation for its off-road prowess. It has earned its cred the hard way, through years of real-world use. Its unique continuously variable Hondamatic automatic transmission with true engine braking has proven to be efficient, maintenance-free and extremely rugged. This automatic transmission can be set in different modes for maximum performance or maximum torque, as well as in Electric Shift Program (ESP) mode that gives the rider push-button control. Add in a torque-sensitive front differential along with Honda's TraxLok® selectable 2WD/4WD system plus the option of Electric Power Steering (EPS), and it's easy to see why so many off-road enthusiasts continue to stick with the Rubicon. New color for 2014 includes White with Black wheels. Colors: White, Olive, Red; Price: TBD; Availability: August
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/fourtrax-foreman-rubicon.aspx

FourTrax Rancher AT
The FourTrax® Rancher® AT carries an impressive blend of innovation, sophistication and hard-working credentials that make it stand out as one of the best picks in the world of ATVs. Riders have the option of choosing between fully automatic transmission operation and an Electric Shift Program (ESP) mode that allows for easy push-button shifts on command. Also in the mix are an independent rear suspension, selectable 4WD/2WD TraxLok® and a rugged torque-sensitive front differential, plus the option of Electric Power Steering (EPS)-all of which make the Rancher AT a genuine superstar in the world of off-road riding. New color for 2014 includes White with Black wheels. Colors: White, Olive, Red; Price: $7099-$7799; Availability: September
http://powersports.honda.com/atv-utility/2014/fourtrax-rancher-at.aspx

FourTrax Recon
Since the inception of this remarkably versatile mid-sized ATV, thousands of riders have made the Honda Recon a best seller, and that's just the way it should be. A remarkably torquey 229cc OHV engine pumps out delightful levels of performance, while its middleweight size enhances its agile handling traits. With the option of a manual gearbox or Honda's push-button Electric Shift Program (ESP) the FourTrax® Recon® continues to deliver just-right performance that gets the job done seven days a week, whether the day calls for work or for fun. Colors: Olive, Red; Price: TBD; Availability: August
http://powersports.honda.com/2014/fourtrax-recon.aspx

About American Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the U.S. American Honda's Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com

By Zach Bowman