There doesn’t seem to be a day when Honda doesn’t launch a new compact motorcycle somewhere in the world. In addition to Grom, Trail, Super was a great success Cub, and Monkey, along with super cheap Indian made Based on the Navi scooter, Honda is launching a new family member with a familiar old name. The Dax ST125 will launch in the 2023 model year carrying the same 125cc engine and 4-speed centrifugal clutch as the Super Cub, but with the lovely old-fashioned look of the original 1969 Dax. Sadly, it’s only for Europe at the moment, and there’s no word on whether Dax will return to the US market.
Interestingly enough, Dax was originally intended mainly for the development Americas Market. The Monkey came out in 1967 and it was well received as a fun ride, but Americans with larger frames want a bigger bike for a less cramped seating position and two-wheeler potential. The design brief for the original Dax was to offer a bigger bike but still have a bit of a Monkey vibe. It fit the bill and managed to do the same today. That’s why we need it in the Americas.
Like the original, the steel T-frame houses the fuel tank and gives the Dax a unique Honda look. There’s a powerful 31mm fork up front and twin shock absorbers at the rear to keep things afloat. 12 inch wheels (crib from Grom) The front and back with thicc tires give it a classic look and keep the bike light and easy to flip. Unlike previous Daxs, this one has front and rear disc brakes, they even have ABS!
It looks classic in all the important places, but it has modern features like LED lights and a large circular LCD screen. I’m not sure I can love it anymore.
It’s everything you could want in a new Honda mini motorcycle. It has classic good looks, is reasonably priced, and has enough shine to keep up with traffic on most swanky streets. This looks like it will be very interesting.
