The Return of an Icon: A Long-Term Review of the Honda ST125 Dax
In a world increasingly dominated by powerful, complex, and tech-laden motorcycles, sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most profound. Honda, a master of both innovation and nostalgia, tapped directly into this sentiment with the revival of a cult classic: the ST125 Dax. First introduced in the 1970s, the original Dax became an emblem of minimalist fun, a compact and quirky companion for urban explorers and casual riders alike. Its modern reincarnation, the ST125, is not just a retro throwback; it's a meticulously engineered update that preserves the original's charm while injecting it with contemporary reliability and performance. After putting the new Dax through its paces on city streets, winding country roads, and everything in between, we can confidently say it’s more than just a novelty—it's a truly excellent small-capacity motorcycle.
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| The Return of an Icon: A Long-Term Review of the Honda ST125 Dax |
Design and Aesthetics: Unmistakably Dax
From the moment you lay eyes on the ST125, its lineage is undeniable. The most striking feature is its T-shaped pressed-steel frame, a direct homage to the original "Dachshund" design that gave the bike its name. This single, elegant piece of metal forms the backbone of the bike, integrating the fuel tank and creating a low, user-friendly profile. The long, padded seat sits atop this frame, inviting riders to hop on and enjoy the ride.
Honda has wisely resisted the temptation to over-complicate the design. The aesthetic is clean, industrial, and purposeful. The chunky, 12-inch wheels with their block-pattern tires give the bike a tough, go-anywhere stance, while the classic round headlight and minimalist taillight with integrated turn signals complete the retro-modern look. The chrome fenders add a touch of class, contrasting beautifully with the vibrant paint options like Pearl Nebula Red and Pearl Cadet Gray. Every detail, from the small LCD instrument cluster to the low-slung exhaust, feels deliberate and well-executed. The Dax is not just a motorcycle; it's a style statement—a bike that turns heads and prompts smiles wherever it goes.
Performance: A Thriving Heart
Beneath its retro skin, the ST125 Dax is a thoroughly modern machine. It shares its air-cooled, SOHC, two-valve 124cc engine with its Monkey and Grom stablemates, a unit renowned for its bulletproof reliability and smooth power delivery. While its 9.2 horsepower and 8 lb-ft of torque may seem modest on paper, they are more than adequate for the Dax's intended purpose. The engine's power is delivered through a four-speed, manual transmission with a centrifugal clutch, a setup that will be familiar to anyone who has ever ridden a Super Cub. This system makes the Dax incredibly easy to ride—simply twist the throttle and go. The semi-automatic gearbox allows for clutch-free shifting, which is a blessing in stop-and-go city traffic, yet still gives the rider the satisfaction of clicking through gears.
Acceleration is brisk and responsive, particularly from a standstill. The Dax zips away from traffic lights with surprising urgency, easily keeping up with urban flow. Its top speed hovers around 60 mph (100 km/h), making it perfectly capable of handling suburban arterials and even short stints on highways, though its natural habitat remains the city. The engine is a marvel of efficiency, offering stellar fuel economy that translates to a range of well over 100 miles on a single tank.
Handling and Ride Quality: The Joy of Simplicity
Where the Dax truly shines is in its handling. Its compact dimensions, low seat height (30.5 inches / 775mm), and light weight (236 lbs / 107 kg) make it incredibly nimble and approachable. The 12-inch wheels, while small, contribute to its exceptional maneuverability, allowing for effortless weaving through traffic and tight turns. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks provide a surprisingly plush and composed ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
The Dax is a master of low-speed stability, inspiring confidence in new riders and offering a fun, responsive experience for veterans. The wide handlebars give excellent leverage, and the upright riding position is comfortable for riders of all sizes. Braking is handled by single-channel ABS-equipped disc brakes both front and rear, providing strong, predictable stopping power that adds a crucial layer of safety. The combination of its light weight and powerful brakes means the Dax can stop on a dime, a critical advantage in crowded urban environments.
Ergonomics and Features: A Focus on the Rider
Despite its minimalist nature, the Honda ST125 Dax is not without its modern conveniences. The digital LCD display is small but clear, providing essential information like speed, gear position, and fuel level. The full LED lighting system not only looks great but also ensures excellent visibility. The riding position is relaxed and natural, and the long seat offers plenty of room for both rider and passenger, though the optional passenger footpegs are a necessary addition for two-up riding.
The build quality is exactly what you would expect from Honda. Every component feels solid and durable, from the switchgear to the paint finish. The exhaust note is a delightful, thrumming burble that is never intrusive but is just loud enough to let you know the bike is alive. The Dax feels like it was built to last, a machine that will endure for years with minimal fuss.
Final Verdict: More Than Meets the Eye
The Honda ST125 Dax is a motorcycle that defies categorization. It's not the fastest, the most powerful, or the most technologically advanced bike on the market, and it doesn't try to be. Instead, it is a masterclass in focused design and joyful simplicity. It is a motorcycle that appeals to a wide range of riders, from urban commuters seeking an efficient and stylish way to get around, to experienced motorcyclists looking for a fun and charming addition to their garage.
The Dax is a reminder that riding is not just about speed or performance—it's about the experience. It's about the feeling of the wind on your face, the simple pleasure of a smooth shift, and the connection to the road. The Honda ST125 Dax delivers all of this in a beautifully packaged, reliable, and utterly charming package. It's not just a motorcycle; it's a conversation starter, a smile generator, and a modern classic in its own right. The legend is back, and it’s better than ever.
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