Mini motorbikes have always something new. Beyond the silly visual effect of an adult on a kid-sized machine, they take many of us back to our roots, with our PW80, XR50, and Trail 70s. However, the 2023 mini-bike market has grown and we are seeing more and more street-legal mini-bikes from more manufacturers, boasting unique looks and affordable performance. France. These pint-sized machines are fun for all skill levels, and they’re a great way to get around and hone your skills.
Honda Grom Introduced nearly a decade ago, there would be no street-legal mini-car conversation without Honda Grom. Grom sets the standard for the class, and oddly enough, custom characters has stood the test of time.
Combining the sophistication of modern street bikes, with miniature dimensions and a 30-inch saddle height, the Grom is all about fun and accessibility. The 124 cc four-stroke, fuel-injected engine and five-speed transmission deliver predictable performance for beginner racers, with a top speed of around 60 mph for off-road commuting.
Grom’s reverse forks, disc brakes, 12-inch wheels and passenger latch have become standard equipment in the minibike segment. The suspension travel is about 4 inches, still competitive among its peers. Ready to drive, the Grom weighs 223 pounds and has an estimated fuel economy of 166 mpg and 1.6 gallons of fuel capacity.
In the language of surfing, grom refers to an amateur who will one day turn pro, and indeed, grom brings thrills to all skill levels. Honda’s MSRP starts at $3,499, and Grom has some of the best aftermarket support in the industry for customization. [Honda]
Benelli TNT135 Crisp European looks in an affordable small platform, Benelli TNT135 is a pleasant fusion of Italian design and Chinese manufacturing. It’s more than just a Grom alternative, and the influence of Benelli’s 302S can be seen in the triangular backbone and slim plastic material.
Power comes from a four-valve, air-cooled, 135 cc engine that produces over 11 hp and is mated to a standard 5-speed transmission. The TNT key dimensions match the Grom’s, with welcome improvements in suspension travel and additional fuel capacity. You’ll feel an extra 30 pounds of curb weight, but the extra beef can benefit many riders.
Benelli’s TNT135 gets extra points thanks to turn signals, projector-style headlights and dual exhaust pipes. The TNT is available through SSR dealers in the US and the MSRP is priced at $3,199, making the TNT one of the more affordable bikes in its class. [Benelli]
Makka flex cake The Makka flex cake is an interesting electric option for the street if oil changes and gas pumps aren’t your thing. The Makka flex is much lighter than the standard minis at 154 pounds, and its 2.8 kW powerhouse will return to the 34-mile and 28-mph range. The sturdy build quality makes the Makka flex suitable for city commuting and light off-road use.
Makka is equipped with regenerative braking and multiple driving modes, allowing the driver to strike a balance between top speed and battery life. Can be fully charged from 0% in three hours with a standard household outlet.
The CAKE Makka flex starts at $4,470 with everything you need to hit the road and accessories available that range from tinted windshields to surfboard mounts. [CAKE]
Kawasaki Z125Pro Kawasaki’s entry into the minibike market has been harshly compared to Grom’s since its launch in 2015, and you’ll find plenty of advocates for each on the web. Boasting comfortable ergonomics and sporty dimensions, the Z125 Pro is built for minimotor performance.
The Kawasaki Z125Pro There’s a fresh level of fit and finish, with more finished plastic and a sporty full-length saddle. You’ll sit slightly higher on the Z, with a seat height of 31.7 inches, which could be a boon for larger riders. Its 125 cc engine matches fuel injection and a four-speed transmission, and the power is on par with the Grom.
The Z125 Pro’s sporty 46-inch wheelbase and high-revving engine make it an attractive option in the mini-bike segment and arguably more enjoyable in the bends. Prices start at $3,399, with three eye-catching color schemes to choose from. [Kawasaki]
Honda monkey Interesting size with huge character, Honda monkey put a completely different spin on Grom’s mechanics. The design is taken from the iconic Honda Z50 of the 1970s, and despite the size increase, the visual effect remains unaffected.
In addition to its classic cosmetics, the Monkey ditches the Grom’s long saddle and passenger latch to replace a single saddle. Dual rear shock absorbers replace Grom’s single and the wheelbase is shorter at 45 inches. It’s also lighter at 231 pounds and consumes a few more mpg.
With thick tires, fenders and a high-mounted exhaust, the Monkey feels more off-road than the Grom, even if it has the same 4-inch suspension travel. You’ll pay a premium for this withdrawal at $4,249, but how much is $750 between friends? [Honda]
