2023 Honda Trail125 First Look Preview

For the first time since its 2021 launch, Honda gives its rugged retro-inspired Trail125 dual sport some updates, including a more efficient single-cylinder engine and a new color.

As we touched on in our 2023 Mini Motorcycles for Sale story, the new Trail125 now has the same fuel-injected 124cc air-cooled two-valve SOHC single that was seen in the 2022 Super Cub. This means the 2023 Trail125 has an even more undersquare bore and stroke (50.0mm x 63.1mm) and higher compression ratio (10.0:1) than its predecessor, thus improving its efficiency at lower rpm. For reference, the 2022 Trail had a 52.4mm bore, 57.9mm stroke, and 9.3:1 compression ratio.

This engine is mated to a four-speed semi-automatic transmission with an automatic centrifugal clutch, so riders will be clicking through the gears (N-1-2-3-4) without needing to work a clutch lever; instead they can focus more on the ascent and descent of technical terrain.

Honda has also modernized the internals of the Trail’s upswept muffler. The exhaust’s pair of catalyzers have been replaced with a single, more efficient catalyzer, says the manufacturer. The ECU has been programmed to maximize performance and efficiency and the alternator output has been increased, continues Honda.

Related: 2021 Honda Trail125 ABS First Ride Review

No changes have been made to the chassis. Off-road-conquering components like a 27mm inverted telescopic fork, dual shocks, and 17-inch spoked wheels clad in dual sport knobby tires remain.

The 220mm/190mm hydraulic discs (front/rear) continue to slow the lightweight road/trail traveler. This minimoto now weighs a claimed 256 pounds (was 259 pounds), potentially making it even more lithe than before.

The Trail125 is available in new Pearl Organic Green. It continues to be offered at a reasonable $3,999 MSRP.