What do you think of the bike now?

[KingWillard]

I’ve only had it for a few weeks and haven’t ridden in forever, so I was looking for something easy, fun, unique. I think it is fine for what it is. I think I may want something just slightly bigger and faster so that I can access some of the forest roads around here which are off 2 lane highways that have speed limits above 55. More my preferences than the bike.

 

[Fishwishin]

Now, i knew it wasn't going to be a highway bike, so left it stock for about 1k then decided to go minimal big bore kit,. the slight bump in HP and the conversion to a manual clutch, for me, mad it much better to live with.

Just curious M- do you know how much HP the big bore added?

Thanks

 

[m in sc]

i didnt dyno it but id guess im at 10.5-11.5 now. weight and top speed capability are a good indicator of HP. typically a bike w that HP & weight (220-250 lbs) will be able to hit 60 ish with a 180-to-200 lb rider.

 

[FizzBuzz3000]

2023 #2332 reporting in at 875 miles over the course of 3 months, I love this bike. It has exceeded my expectations, and it's the second bike (2013 CRF250L) I have ever owned (first as a new bike)! In the three months of owning it here are my thoughts:

- Love the feel of the bike, it feels nimble and friendly, despite it being a slow and bulky-looking bike.
- Love the Fuel economy of the bike, I get ~130 miles to a near-empty tank (which has changed, more below)
- Love the Heel-toe shifter, it's something that I never thought I'd like so much!
- Love the fact that this bike has neutral on the bottom of the shifting pattern, where it should be on most bikes. Not a fan of neutral being in-between two gears.
- Love how light-weight the bike is, I lack upper body strength due to various reasons, so a bike this light is nice for maneuvering.
- Love the step-through, I like it more than straddling a bike.
- Hate the small-ish gas tank, I wouldn't have much complaint if it was possible to add a 2 gallon tank rather than the 1.4 tank it has now.
- Hate that the rear rack is different from overseas, consistency is key in regard for storage accessories, Honda!
- Hate the stock tires, even though I have no problem riding on gravel roads with them. Gotta have knobbies! Gonna get my money's worth out of the stock tires first.
- Hate the helmet strap. I wish there was a proper lock like on my CRF250L. Also to mention that the weight of the helmet when on the straps causes the hook on the seat to be misaligned.... Not Good.
- Hate there's no HI-Lo range transmission, it sucks to see that the Trail is just a more-expensive Super CUB 125 with different fenders in regard to how Honda sees the bike. It's just a Trail in-name.

Anyways, I just yesterday put a 13-tooth front sprocket on the bike and will have to unfortunately winterize the bike this week, so I won't be able to fully get a feel for the 13T until it gets warmer. I would keep riding if I had the equipment to do so, but alas, I don't want to spend more money on winter gear. Also looking for a high capacity, lockable storage box to put on the rear rack, hopefully some good deals float around soon. I'll probably do another report later at 2000 miles next year, cheers!

 

[TrevorAkin]

I’m 51 years old, living in sw Missouri, the Trail 125 is my first motorcycle. Other than the pretty rough looking/behaving 250cc cruiser i did the MSF course on, it’s my only bike of reference. I don’t really count the Honda Sprees back in my teens or the ‘64 Vespa Allstate 125 I never got running. Anyway, I love the bike. It’s a lot of fun. It’s been great to learn on since August. I’ve got 419 miles on mine with two good entry-level farm road and gravel trips under my wheels (35/47 miles).

i think if I can find others to ride with and bounce low-level and slow-riding dumb ideas off of, I’ll end up keeping the bike more long term. Otherwise, I may end up selling it to buy something in the 250-350cc range.

-Trevor

 

[Little_Thumper_Boy]

Ridden since 12 y/o, have always kept riding, now in my late 60's I've had many motorcycles come and go and still own several. The Trail 125 - I researched, test rode, approached this Donk group with questions/comments/feedback before hand and so pretty much realized what i was getting into by the time I found a lightly used 2021. There's been no surprise disappointments, and I fully accept and enjoy the ~9+hp for what it is. It's fine, I love the bike, know it well by now, and have every intention of keeping it permanently. 45mph is just fine and adequate, and nothing in my stable compares to the quiet, tranquil, fun, and non invasive approach for simply exploring and poking around on the Donkey. It's my only bike that won't freak my dog out and he rides on back in a crate and likes it - a lot! There's never a concern over disrupting others outdoors (campers, cyclists, hikers), which I can't say for any of my other O/R bikes; there's just something about the nature of the Trail125, even beyond its quietness, that's calm and non-threatening to others. The brakes, handling, ride/suspension, controls, FI & engine response, and comfort are all heads and shoulders above the CT110's. I've settled out any intitial wishful expectations I may have once had (except for one) based on hopeful interpretations of what the Trail 'should be'; the bike's mostly great for exactly what it was intended. A few aftermarket parts and relatively simple mods have improved and made acceptable any complaints or problems (saddle upgrade, aux fuel, gauges, pillion accommodations, storage...), but that applies to any bike, right? I still need to upgrade the suspsension, and that's something I do to nearly all my bikes anyway, so the Trail is no different in that regard.
The one thing: Like many others here have expressed, I also think the addition of a hi/lo sub-trans would have expanded the Trail's ability and utility to a whole other level, specifically in hilly or mountain back country adventure/exploration. The whole 'Trail' image portrayed by Honda, as initially interpreted (or assumed) by some if not most buyers, may have suggested a machine with O/R capability similar to its predecessor, but then most who had engaged in a little research and asked a few questions dispelled that assumption and pretty much knew that it's not. But just how far from the old 110's did it stray in terms of climbing ability? Though I don't think I'd personally use my Trail for something like the TAT or extended BDR packed adventures, I struggle to imagine adventure touring heavily loaded (side case/bags, bedroll/camp gear, etc) into unfamiliar trail mountains/hills territory realizing its limited grade ascent capability. Some Guy Rides navigated Colorado's Engineer Pass on a Trail 125 and ended up walking it up the steep stuff, and that's not all that steep IMO. There are familiar places I cannot venture due to its inherent climbing limits, and that's about the only disappointment for me. To overcome this, I could increase its power with a BBK/exhaust/ECM/etc (modified my Monkey125 w/186cc BBK, head/valves, etc. and it has amazing low-end torque) or change its gearing to something like 13/45, but either one would be at the sacrifice and comprimse of quietness, reliability/lifespan, or its street speed/versatility. I like those three things very much as they are, stock. The Trail125 needs a hi/lo sub-trans like the CT110 had, yet the 125 is so much more of a pleasure to ride in every other respect than the 110 that I hardly ever ride the older bike anymore. I've gotten over the weight factor of CT125 vs CT110 (260 lbs vs 200 lbs) and come to realize it's actually not an issue afterall. So instead of power-up mods or living with its limited grade-acsent capability, I've decided to work on designing/machining a hi/lo tranfer case unit for the Trail 125.

On topic and with a bit of self-contradiction, speaking of accepting/appreciating things for what they are, here's Neil Graham's New Year 2024 piece on motorcycles, nostalgia, expectations, perspective... Note the line "Expectation is the thief of joy". Gotta agree with that. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

The Age of Discontent - Adventure Rider

Columnist Neil Graham asks: Motorcycles are better than ever. So why are we so grumpy?

www.advrider.com

 

[dmonkey]

I've decided to work on designing/machining a hi/lo tranfer case unit for the Trail 125.

Looking forward to hearing more about this project. Have a look at some of the 4-stroke Honda ATCs and their sub-transmissions if you aren't already familiar with them. I think the ATC125M specifically may have had an updated sub-transmission design, reducing the complexity of the sub-trans countershaft and its bearings. With opposite interest of yours, racing vs tractoring, there were kits to eliminate the sub-trans on the ATC 90/110. Some ATC200 models also had dual-range, they're based on a different engine family (XR?), but still might be worth checking out.

 

[Little_Thumper_Boy]

Thanks for the machine/model history tips dmonkey. I've yet to get too deep into it and not sure if I'll end up using Honda ONS gears & shafts or cut my own. For sure I'll have to design & cut new casings specific to the 125's setup. Would much rather use their gears/shafts if it works out.
Sure - I'll post more when there's worthy progress and time - not in a big hurry in this winter weather.

 

[Farmer Mike]

Thanks for the machine/model history tips dmonkey. I've yet to get too deep into it and not sure if I'll end up using Honda ONS gears & shafts or cut my own. For sure I'll have to design & cut new casings specific to the 125's setup. Would much rather use their gears/shafts if it works out.
Sure - I'll post more when there's worthy progress and time - not in a big hurry in this winter weather.

Well, you have no idea how many people are in a hurry for you to be in a hurry!

 

[Little_Thumper_Boy]

Well, you have no idea how many people are in a hurry for you to be in a hurry!

You're right, and neither do you - do you?
I do appreciate the between-the-lines encouragement though!

 

[Farmer Mike]

Well, I've had the bike for a few weeks now, and it's approaching 300 miles. It's incredibly under powered! Not that I want it to go faster (I generally run 38-42) when on the road, have no real need to go faster. Having said that, I've been surprised how unable it is to maintain speed even on minor inclines. I run the same roads a lot for errands/shopping, so I'm going to install the infamous 13 tooth sprocket (have it in hand), and see how that changes things. I really don't like pushing anything WOT so hoping that isn't the case to stay in that same speed zone. I installed a tack, and while I don't pay a lot of attention to it, the engine seems to be pretty happy around the 5000 - 5200 range in high gear. Will see what the smaller sprocket does for me. Keep in mind the JA65's come with a 38 tooth rear sprocket. Seems like a 5 gear setup with some custom spacing would be super sweet (taller on 1, shorter on 5th). Honda could do so much with this little bike if they were willing. It's a nice platform, but I guess the economic reality is they aren't going to do the R&D to make it what I wish they would. Suppose I have to put in perspective that I'm comparing it to a 45 year old memory, when I was roughly half my current weight of 170 lbs.

 

[TRF90]

Well, I've had the bike for a few weeks now, and it's approaching 300 miles. It's incredibly under powered! Not that I want it to go faster (I generally run 38-42) when on the road, have no real need to go faster. Having said that, I've been surprised how unable it is to maintain speed even on minor inclines. I run the same roads a lot for errands/shopping, so I'm going to install the infamous 13 tooth sprocket (have it in hand), and see how that changes things. I really don't like pushing anything WOT so hoping that isn't the case to stay in that same speed zone. I installed a tack, and while I don't pay a lot of attention to it, the engine seems to be pretty happy around the 5000 - 5200 range in high gear. Will see what the smaller sprocket does for me. Keep in mind the JA65's come with a 38 tooth rear sprocket. Seems like a 5 gear setup with some custom spacing would be super sweet (taller on 1, shorter on 5th). Honda could do so much with this little bike if they were willing. It's a nice platform, but I guess the economic reality is they aren't going to do the R&D to make it what I wish they would. Suppose I have to put in perspective that I'm comparing it to a 45 year old memory, when I was roughly half my current weight of 170 lbs

Mine started to pick up some power when I hit 300 miles. Just passed 2100 miles. Over time, I adapted to the power output, and the 13 tooth sprocket really did help. Keep fresh oil in it, and spin it as hard as you need to.

 

[martysgone]

Well, I've had the bike for a few weeks now, and it's approaching 300 miles. It's incredibly under powered! Not that I want it to go faster (I generally run 38-42) when on the road, have no real need to go faster. Having said that, I've been surprised how unable it is to maintain speed even on minor inclines. I run the same roads a lot for errands/shopping, so I'm going to install the infamous 13 tooth sprocket (have it in hand), and see how that changes things. I really don't like pushing anything WOT so hoping that isn't the case to stay in that same speed zone. I installed a tack, and while I don't pay a lot of attention to it, the engine seems to be pretty happy around the 5000 - 5200 range in high gear. Will see what the smaller sprocket does for me. Keep in mind the JA65's come with a 38 tooth rear sprocket. Seems like a 5 gear setup with some custom spacing would be super sweet (taller on 1, shorter on 5th). Honda could do so much with this little bike if they were willing. It's a nice platform, but I guess the economic reality is they aren't going to do the R&D to make it what I wish they would. Suppose I have to put in perspective that I'm comparing it to a 45 year old memory, when I was roughly half my current weight of 170 lbs.

I have a pretty fresh memory of the OG 90's and 110's since I have been doing multi-day camping trips on them up until I bought my 125. Some thoughts to your comments, they definitely are stronger, but it's lost a bit by the extra pounds the bike put on. The CT90's only weighed 190 lbs. and we are sitting at 260! If we could lose 70 lbs off the bike I think there would be no questioning the difference. These bikes are so small that any increase in chassis weight, belly weight, or luggage really makes a difference when you see any incline. For long trips I pack just as light as if I were doing a thru-hike. It makes all the difference.

 

[bumberson1]

Mine started to pick up some power when I hit 300 miles. Just passed 2100 miles. Over time, I adapted to the power output, and the 13 tooth sprocket really did help. Keep fresh oil in it, and spin it as hard as you need to.

Same here. I really noticed it around 600 miles. It felt like something got enabled once I hit the break in milage. I don't think that's really a thing, but it's noticeably better now.

 

[m in sc]

rode mine in to work today, because its been a while, @ almost 4k on it still enjoying it. the 143 made a big difference, was 58-62 the whole way in. (mostly 2 lane back highways thru the country).

 

[SLO]

Well, I've had the bike for a few weeks now, and it's approaching 300 miles. It's incredibly under powered! Not that I want it to go faster (I generally run 38-42) when on the road, have no real need to go faster. Having said that, I've been surprised how unable it is to maintain speed even on minor inclines. I run the same roads a lot for errands/shopping, so I'm going to install the infamous 13 tooth sprocket (have it in hand), and see how that changes things. I really don't like pushing anything WOT so hoping that isn't the case to stay in that same speed zone. I installed a tack, and while I don't pay a lot of attention to it, the engine seems to be pretty happy around the 5000 - 5200 range in high gear. Will see what the smaller sprocket does for me. Keep in mind the JA65's come with a 38 tooth rear sprocket. Seems like a 5 gear setup with some custom spacing would be super sweet (taller on 1, shorter on 5th). Honda could do so much with this little bike if they were willing. It's a nice platform, but I guess the economic reality is they aren't going to do the R&D to make it what I wish they would. Suppose I have to put in perspective that I'm comparing it to a 45 year old memory, when I was roughly half my current weight of 170 lbs.

Did not read full post. I know exactly how to fix it,and it is absolutely worth it when dona. I put a free flowing exhaust ( stainless all the way to head ) $315 bucks, A Honda 150 injector,about $ 65 bucks, A YUMINASHI 143cc Big Bore kit $ 256 bucks, a KN type air filter,open the air box( (remove restriction to intake)About $80 bucks. Put the 13 tooth sprocket on front,and put some SHINKO 244 3/0 tires on it ( you have to drill a few holes to raise front fender) Mine will run over 60 mph on slight hills! Over gap the rings a couple thousandths over .010 spec on top and second rings. If it smokes a little at first,it will quit. That way you wont worry about it seizing ( just like gapping for boost ) Oh it comes with a 238 cam when buying the kit. I did it,never before. I recommend a lift to make it easier.

 

[SLO]

Did not read full post. I know exactly how to fix it,and it is absolutely worth it when dona. I put a free flowing exhaust ( stainless all the way to head ) $315 bucks, A Honda 150 injector,about $ 65 bucks, A YUMINASHI 143cc Big Bore kit $ 256 bucks, a KN type air filter,open the air box( (remove restriction to intake)About $80 bucks. Put the 13 tooth sprocket on front,and put some SHINKO 244 3/0 tires on it ( you have to drill a few holes to raise front fender) Mine will run over 60 mph on slight hills! Over gap the rings a couple thousandths over .010 spec on top and second rings. If it smokes a little at first,it will quit. That way you wont worry about it seizing ( just like gapping for boost ) Oh it comes with a 238 cam when buying the kit. I did it,never before. I recommend a lift to make it easier.

I have a KTM 390 ADV ( modded out) and a DR 200, I would rather ride the Honda for what you describe you want to use it for. Thats why if I had a do over,I would pick up a used one,then mod it.It would have to be 2021 model or before they changed the engine, 2023 I think is when that happened. Off road,it it does not have the suspension,but you would be riding something else anyway.

 

[Msfitoy]

Still really love mine...I don't know what it is...just hooked on it even when I'm not riding it...

 

[Dusty Bottoms]

I just got mine about three days ago. I like it enough, but it is taking a lot of practice for me to get smooth with this bike. Shifting without a clutch is not that easy. I keep reaching for the clutch, but that's not the main thing. Basically, by holding the shift lever down, I've noticed that the bike is in "neutral" as if holding in the clutch. But all of the extra stuff around my feet gets in the way. I seem to have the back of my boots snagging on the heel lever, and a couple of times my pants cuffs got caught on it. At first the kickstarter was getting in the way of my right foot.

The owner's manual says that you shift to 4th gear at about 25 or 26 mph, so basically there is very little time for second and third gears. I understand that the bike is made to be capable of trail riding, so it is geared accordingly.

I also find it to be a rough ride, on bumps or in the wind. It's easiest to ride out of the saddle a little on rough road. I do miss having a fuel tank to grab with my knees. I hope to get some kind of bags/box/pannier or other set up to allow for carrying stuff to run errands. I like that it so light. Almost like a bicycle with 8 hp. I like the retro look with modern technology such as ABS, fuel injection, electric start.

I would appreciate any tips on getting smooth on this machine.

When you shift, realize that you are pushing a rod that is disengaging a mechanical clutch that allows the transmission to shift. There is also a centrifugal clutch similar to what is used on a go-cart or mini-bike. Honda developed this idea a long, long time ago. I had to put a centrifugal clutch in my Honda 300 4 x 4 because my nephews figured out how to put in 4th gear and go fast because it would take off in high gear, especially if you weighed under 80lbs. I would have figured that out when i was 8 yrs old as well. Lol! That eventually burned out the centrifugal clutch and it wouldn't haul an adult down the road.

 

[Pittsburgh_Bob]

Man, took my BMW R1200 GS out for a brief ride today. I'd been riding the TRAIL 125 (since that's what it is) for the last several weeks. Man what a difference . Two totally different bikes.