Miniature Bike = Maximum Fun

Too much fun! That’s all I can say about the 2022 Honda Grom. Everyone knows the short history of the Grom ever since its debut in 2014. With its mini... everything, the Grom instantly became a favourite for many types of riders. Being small and thrashable makes it easy to have fun with without even trying. Its 12-inch baby wheels fall and flick through the corners, yet for being so small, the bike still feels well planted to the road.

New for this year is the 5th gear, an upgrade from the previous generation’s 4-gear manual transmission. While it doesn’t make the little 125cc go any faster, it does let the bike breathe easier by keeping the revs a bit tamer even when "flying" down the road at 80km/h. The gear box is smooth and easy to operate, and I never missed a gear or found any false neutrals. True neutral took a little effort to find, but that’s a minor quirk not unique to the Grom.

In most circumstances, you’ll keep the throttle maxed out all the time, which is part of the fun of this bike. Using every single ounce of the engine’s 10HP is a hoot, and it never feels stressed about being revved out to its max. 80-90 km/h on the Grom feels like you’re bending space and time. You really feel the wind and the whoosh of the road since there’s absolutely nothing in front of you to block it. Looking straight ahead you might forget that you’re on a true motorcycle. It’s only when you look down that you remember there’s a bright LCD display with all the info you need.

Big blocky numbers take up most of the display, serving as a reminder that you’ll rarely see triple digits. The fuel gauge is on the left, with colourful lines indicating RPMs climbing up and to the right, and a handy gear indicator on the far right. Fuel range and a clock round out the easy-to-read display.

Clutch operation on this bike is incredibly light but could take some getting used to, especially if you’re a new rider. The clutch doesn't engage until the lever is so far out that I wondered if it was even attached to anything, until finally I felt the slightest tug and the small engine began to putt forward.

You’ll happily get the best fuel mileage for the lowest price riding this thing. The most I got a chance to put into the bike was $3.50 after having burned a third of a tank on my test ride, which made me laugh and shake my head. If only all bikes were this easy on gas! Choosing your route wisely will be key when it comes to commuting on the Grom. While it could certainly make an amazing daily driver on streets up to about 80km/h, don't ask it for more unless you have the patience of a monk. Back roads will be your friend.

This bike is a blast for any skill level. From beginners to expert-level track slayers, there’s something the Grom can offer everyone, and it will always leave a smile on your face.

Author: Enrique Flores-Smith
Photo Credits: Enrique Flores-Smith

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