I just bought a new 2020 grom a month ago and I love it. I've been riding for 35 years and I was just too tired to get a big heavy bike out of the shed every morning, in fact I was going to quit riding altogether until a friend showed me his grom, its perfect for short trips around town and going to work, as long as you don't want to do any highway riding I think this bike is a great choice!
Recent bought a Grom and replaced the terrible mirrors with some folding off road ones and it’s a big improvement. I actually love the deep sound of the exhaust and have no plans to replace. A hard to find neutral is my only complaint of this bike.
I also work remotely and plan on doing the EXACT same thing with a GROM! I was taken back by how niche this video was, thank you for it and your thoughtful/insightful commentary.
As a proud owner of a 1st gen Grom I enjoyed this video very much. They are great little bikes especially in the city, slower roads and going off the beaten track. I look forward to seeing what you do to yours! Also I'd love to see the occasional van video 👍
So happy I found this video. My friends have Groms and I want one…but just because they look fun. However, seeing this video helps me see it really opens up to a different kind of riding all together. I love that with proper tires, it can easily be ridden off road, and in some cases, maybe a little safer vs a bigger bike. I love seeing you taking some of the curvier roads. I currently ride a Yamaha MT-07, which I thought to be a small bike, but I think the Grom will still bring somewhat of a different ride experience. Thank you!!
@@RocketMan_Moto I’ve ridden a couple. One of my friends has a “clone” mini bike. It will definitely be a second bike, and I’m sure I won’t be riding on the same roads and in the same way I ride as I do the MT-07. It’s for fun, scooting around town . However, I liked how you were able to take it off road. I think I will hold out for the newer 2022 vs an older one…still weighing pros/cons. Thanks again!!
What a perfect narration voice you have! Love the grom, we’ve got a pair of mk1’s tricked up for off road. Glad they’ve gone back to a flat seat, really wasn’t a fan of the mk2
Thank you :) The Grom is a great little bike for off-road escapades, although obviously for shorter trips. Yes, the flat seat definitely helps larger riders like me.
When I said I was looking forward to seeing your UA-cam review I didn’t think it’d be this soon! For all the reasons you mention, Paul, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this, your latest acquisition. 👍
Hi, it seems interest is growing about how you morphed your van into a home office… I would be delighted to learn about all the little add-ons you equipped your van with (ie. the desk, customized ?) kind regards, Pierre
Haha, I know. People seem more interested in the van than the Grom :) I can understand that, though, and am already thinking of doing a proper 'van vid'!
Love the Grom and the van! I've got a similar setup to you with a 125 Monkey and a Trident, compliment each other very well. Fantastic video as always 👍
Thanks! Great minds think alike... I mentioned in the video that I had a Monkey a couple of years ago when they first came out, but I didn't have a use for it at the time. The Grom offers 2-up riding (just about!), so that is a plus for us. The Monkey definitely looks cuter, though! Ride safe :)
@@RocketMan_Moto thank you. Make sure the Grim gets enough space in the video - I am interested how it fits when it is in and secured. And avoids carping comments that you tried to sneak in some "inappropriate" content into your channel 😉
Back in the late 70s and early 80s in Houston Texas USA there’s a radio show that came on that was called mystery theater and It was narrated with a voice like his.
At 187mm tall, it would be humorous to see you standing on the pegs on those little off road trails. A clever choice considering your reasoning for this bike, fits perfectly in the van and so easy to manoeuvre.
You have to accept that you will always look slightly ridiculous on a Grom, but it doesn't bother me, because it's so much fun. I must admit I haven't tried standing on the pegs yet, lol :)
Such a nice and presented video!! Love the accent and vocabulary. Easy to understand the Grom from your perspective. Love the mods you did on the van. My guess is that you're an Engineer of some sorts. Thanks for sharing!!
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I'm actually a linguist by training, not an engineer at all, although I am interested in many things :)
Hi there. Last month I bought a 2022 Grom (US model year) to be delivered in February. The long wait is due to a shortage of them in the US. I've neither ridden nor even seen one in person but wanted it based on reviews such as yours. I've been riding for 59 years (I'm 75) on different bikes in Europe, SE Asia and Central America. I sold my last bike a year ago, thinking it was my last steed until the Grom! BTW, we have several things in common. Last year I bought a Nissan NV200 like yours and converted it into a tiny campervan. I'm planning to transport the Grom in my campervan (after removing the sofa/bed) and your video proves that it can be done!! (I just need that folding ramp.) Like you, I also have a soft spot for Portugal. I've been there 5 times, 3 of which were for hiking the camino. We've just rented an Airbnb apartment in Luz (Western Algarve) for a short stay in April-May. I do not normally subscribe to UA-cam channels but had just clicked the subscribe button to yours because of these common interests!! I dont comment on videos either but have just done so. Thanks, MC! Safe riding!
Awesome review. Great job editing the content. I have the same dual tone icon jacket - it's fab. You're van build looks sweet. Ty for the vid. I want a grom :).
@@RocketMan_Moto yes its nice. Right now Florida is open and its flooded with tourists for vacations and or getting the vaccine which is free for anyone from anywhere. So lodging is super expensive. Let me know when you visit. Im in Miami.
My wife insists that we go asap. We would quite like to retire there, but the problem would be the residents’ visas. I’m British and she’s Brazilian. Know any good immigration lawyers?😬
Thanks for the video, I am looking at buying a Grom as a second bike for short journeys and to lend to one of my sons who has just passed his test. You have just about convinced me (together with other tubers)
My first bike was a Yamaha DT125LC and 30 years and a few bikes later, I bought an used Yamaha DT125R. So light, so much fun. Very different from the big thumpers I still drive most of the time, and that's the point: a breathe of fresh air (well, not for the following vehicles who enjoy the blue smoke of the two-stroke engine). And I do like the sound of a 2-stroke 125 cc...
Good video. I picked a used Honda PCX 150 that I can carry with my old Chevy Blazer on a hitch rack. Having loads of fun on back roads and even some gravel ones.
Looks like a Vivaro or Trafic. I also fitted my van out during the first lockdown, it's a Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive LWB. I did consider buying a Honda Grom and fitting a rear motorcycle rack, but have since converted my MTB to an e-bike and enjoying it more on the trails and loosing weight. If you do a YT search for Vauxhall Vivaro Campervan my video should be second from the top. Very envious of your sunshine, very cold here at the moment for the month of May. 👍
Thanks, Irish. It's actually a Fiat Talento, but yes, a Vivaro underneath. SWB. I should have got a bike, or maybe an ebike, but I'm a petrolhead at heart and couldn't resist the new Grom, especially as it's not that much more expensive than a decent MTB, lol :) I'll check out your video now :)
I bought a 2021 Honda Monkey for a very specific purpose as well. I own a second home in Lakeside, AZ in the White Mountains. There are few things I enjoy more than to ride my Honda Monkey on trails this time of year in Lakeside, AZ.
I hear you! The Grom is a great little 'second bike' for those secret trails. I used to have a Monkey, but found that not being able to take a passenger at all, even for just a few hundred metres, was a bit limiting. Ride safe :)
All makes perfect sense to me. Certainly living the dream. Being able to work anywhere in the world, wifi/phone signal permitting, then go off for a ride to de stress etc. What's not to like 👍✌
The aftermarket exhausts just make them sound like dirtbikes, are dirtbikes not very common in the UK? Most Canadians and probably Americans find the sound nostalgic, I know I do lol
I think dirt bikes are available pretty much everywhere. However, I would still argue that the sound they produce is disagreeable. I guess everyone is different :)
Barragem do Funcho....great views on that place....in the past it was possible to go on top of the wall of the barragem do Funcho!!! And for the next time try to hide the license plate of the van!!! Even in my city (Silves) they try to stolen things from Cars!!! Abraços de um admirador do seu trabalho!!!
Great vid! I can agree with you on the vibrations on the 500x ! Love the grom and the reason for its purchase. I recently parked my current steed (2015 BMW R1200GSA) next to a Grom - looked positively tiny !! Looking forward to the next instalment.
Nice review! Never really considered a Grom. You’re spot on in regard to the mirrors! In the video, all you can see in the mirrors is your shoulders! The mirrors are practically useless in my opinion! Lol…. And, ride safe!
Thanks, Willy. Yes, the mirrors definitely need changing. I know everyone moans about not being able to see much in motorbike mirrors, but these are truly awful, lol :)
Magic video. I fancy either a Grom or a Monkey bike too. We are trying to get back to the Algarve this year but my daughter is still waiting for her 2nd jab. Subscribed.
Thanks, Jonathan :) I will concede that the Monkey is the cuter of the two, but the Grom can (just about) take a passenger, and that was important for us. Hope you can all make it down here very soon. It's hot but lonely :)
I’d be interested in your van conversion and other exploits. I’ve just bought a Trident here in the UK, one month wait for the silver, December for the black version! Went for silver, can’t wait that long. Sorry, forgot to mention the Grom. Looks like fun with the set up you have, seems ideal.
Thanks, Nick. Yes, I'm enjoying the Grom and the Trident in equal measure, although obviously they are completely different machines. The van video is in the pipeline :)
I’ve driven my 2021 Grom now for approx 680km. Cause i’m breaking it in currently i havent pushed the engine yet so i cant compare the performance to my OG Grom, but i do agree on some of your comments about it. The suspension is the same as before, engine sound, yes it got some mechanicly grinding sounds (doesnt sound great imo) but i still do want to change the OEM exhaust with something else because i do love how the Grom’s sound with aftermarket ones. You’re spot on the torque side of the engine, it feels like it has more torque in low/mid range of the rpm (they are stating higher compression ratio for this engine though). All in all, i just love it and i’m so excited to start modding it :D
@@RocketMan_Moto it’s a blast to drive :) Norwegian Grom community isnt so big compare to our friends in the west or as in Thailand, but our FB group has passed 700 members now, and thats a start. I do hope this thing takes the market with great sales again. This is my only bike atm, bought it for two reasons: price and size. I have driven SV 650/1000, CB650 etc...i have never before had so much attention around driving a Grom than any other bike i’ve owned, ppl love it, thumbs up and come around to talk about their experience with Honda mini bikes when they were younger😅
Great style and gearbox update, but would have been nice to follow other 125’s like the PCX and offer a 160cc version outside Europe - would definitely make it a bit more usable!
I owned last gen grom. I found that replacing the intake but keeping the stock exhaust yielded the most fun sound (people say it sounds like a angry pig). Does it match a vtwin or inline 4? No, no ware near it, but I think its kind of a silly and fun bike so I kind of wanted to make it have a silly and fun sound.
I picked up a low mileage 2018 Grom a year ago and use it for commuting. I like it but wish it were about 10 mph faster. I did add a Zoom pipe which sounds better (not too loud and not too expensive). The Grom seat is horrible but I had a spare gel pad from an earlier bike and it works well. I have been considering replacing the Grom with a Honda 300. The Grom spends time with: 2009 Bonneville, 2018 Burgman 200 and a 1964 Honda CA200 (90cc). My lovely wife disagrees with my need for two more bikes. A wonderful first world problem. Ride safe Rocketman.
Lol, thanks Jeffrey. Having more than one bike (like you & I do) is totally unnecessary, but wonderful :) The Grom is good fun in the hills, my playground, but I agree it's a bit limited on the road. Ride safe :)
One never has enough of what his hobby/love entails. Like, 5 guitars, 5 ukes, a dozen of so blues harps, two violins, pennywhistles, NAF flutes, etc. -it just doesn't stop. I AM, however, running out of room! I feel your pain. BTW - I got rid of two wives... just sayin'... ; )
Well, and as you allude in your opening, who would've thought the RocketMan would be tooling around on a Grom (Grom or Grommet: a young participant in extreme sports [Wikipedia]). I completely understand the attraction and utility. I love my Aprilia Mojito 150 scooter for many of the same reasons: easy to jump and go, very maneuverable, perfect on neighborhood streets in suburbia, cheap to operate, etc. Firing up the Super Magna is more of a commitment. The Grom seems perfect for trails through the maquis as well as the small roads leading there.Your stable grows.
Thanks, Timothy. Yes, the Grom has severe limitations, but as a toy to take on picnics, etc. it's more practical than a full-size machine. Ride safe :)
@@RocketMan_Moto The Honda Element is a discontinued SUV. It looks like a box version of the Honda Ridgeline (truck) and was very utilitarian. Though no longer in production, used ones are quite popular even with very high miles. I look forward to your van overview and more Grom videos.
The Grom is the perfect bike to put in your van. I don't have a van but would quite like a very small bike for doing the Algarve trails on, and I don't want a CRF or anything. I would consider a Grom like yours, although I'd prefer a Suzuki VanVan 200 but they are not available in Europe. I am thinking of getting one for similar use in Thailand. Nice van, as well.
For the details on the van: Yes, please. And, if I can push my luck, I'd like to know how the Street Triple fitted in. In all honesty, I am ( and have been for the last two years) considering the exact same setting for myself ....and my street triple is due on 15 June. OOPS, I almost forgot to mention the quality of your vids and your butterscotch smooth voice. 👍
OK, I'll have a think about a specific video on the van. Thanks! The Street Triple will fit, at least my 2017 RS with its bar end mirrors did, though like the Trident I needed to use the power of the engine to get it up the ramp.
Hello there, you know that you're living in paradise - do you? I'm not jealous - at least I hope so.... But sometimes people who live in such places don't see the beauty surrounding em. Hope you do. You sound to me like someone who does. The bike, the van, yes realy good too. Like the new grom, at first I didn't like the new light, but overall ist's an improved bike. Have fun, stay safe and have allways a good time - life is too short for too much bad times.
Looks good, if "Lost with Mike" can put 80K touring miles on his 50cc Ruckus then the Grom has just as much potential. Want a little moto for Van camping trips in the future too.
I strongly recommend a front mud guard extender if you can find one. I also enjoy riding my grom in the forest and small rocks jumping from the front tire completely destroyed the paint on my cylinder head. It would be better to install a small bash plate but I haven't been able to find such thing for grom.
I own one of the Chinese grom clones with an upgraded carburetor and exhaust, this allows me to run side by side with my grom friends. I've gone from the original street Michelins to the off-road knobbies to a set of Kenda dual sport tires and have found the Kenda's to be the most comfortable. As for the vibrations, I chalk that up to it being a cheap copy although I've changed out certain nut and bolts, metric to a bigger US standard, and have managed to lesson the vibrations somewhat. As I paid less than 1000$ for mine, I don't mind spending a little on it to make it ride better including a new seat. 58mph is plenty on this little bike, if I want to go faster I have bikes made for that.
I agree they're expensive for what they are, but 5 gears is a definite improvement. My 2018 Monkey only had 4 and that did feel a bit limited. Ride safe :)
Hi, great little video. Have thought about the grom for our A Class MH as a run around country lanes and villages only, but is it upto the job for me and my wife for short runs out. We have thought about Honda, s sh125 but a tight fit for the garage. Keep you vids coming always interesting, cheers.
Thanks, Phil. My wife and I took the Grom to a restaurant yesterday about 5 miles away. No problem on ‘slow’ roads, but I wouldn’t feel comfortable on any roads you constantly need to ride at 45mph+, because acceleration is woeful with 2 people. We have a Vision 110 which is just as bad😂
@@RocketMan_Moto thanks for the response, not sure if we will get a rack for the MH to give me some other choices but like the idea of something so easy to live with. Anyway thanks again and how I envy where you live with a lot more sunshine 🤣🌞. Cheers. 👍
Tbh, I didn't: the Cub looks nice and I'm sure my wife would like one to go to the shops on, but I wanted something a bit more toy-like for the forests and hills we have around here :)
Taking a dump in a van isn't as good as taking a dump on a van. Much like peeing into a pool is better than peeing in the pool. You only live once, get weird. Great video RocketMan.
I would love to see a video on the van. My bikes are my primary transportation, but I do have an old pickup for when I need to haul things or when the weather gets to bad to ride a couple weeks out of the year. I've been thinking my next 4 wheeled vehicle would be a cargo van for the same type of use as yours. I currently ride a FZ6 as my all around bike and Kymco Spade 150 as my mini motorcycle fun bike.
Man that van looks like a dream but for me I love pitbikes for small trails and portability, here in the US there is a lot of cool 125-200cc pitbikes that are road legal and cheap so that my personal preference because I love carburators over fuel injection because I like to tinker and tune my bikes.
For my full 1-month review of the 2021 Grom, please feel free to watch: ua-cam.com/video/RwloZqY2xp0/v-deo.html
Do you like more to drive the monkey or the grom?
I didn't want a Grom, but now I do. I also want a van-office.
Haha, I was the same really - couldn't see the point of a tiny 125, but now I'm hooked :)
Made me chuckle hearing someone so eloquent say dump in a van’ 🤣. I really quite fancy a Grom. I’d be interested to hearing so more about your van. 👍🏻
Seems to be quite a lot of interest in the van, so I'll probably be doing a van vid soon :)
@@RocketMan_Moto Yes
I just bought a new 2020 grom a month ago and I love it. I've been riding for 35 years and I was just too tired to get a big heavy bike out of the shed every morning, in fact I was going to quit riding altogether until a friend showed me his grom, its perfect for short trips around town and going to work, as long as you don't want to do any highway riding I think this bike is a great choice!
Totally agree. I wouldn't want to go touring on it, but for whizzing around locally, or on short rides out in the fields/hills, it's great :)
I’m going on 65 and I wanted to ride again but found my strength and abilities couldn’t do a big bike so I have a 300 Honda forza and is love a grom
I just got mine super excited!!
@@jsboelk Hope you enjoy!
I love your account ,im sure ill feel the same way once i get one .....
Do the van tour would be nice to see as we have a camper van and motorbikes, see what you did always interested in other people ideas
OK, I'll have a think about it. Thanks for your encouragement :)
Recent bought a Grom and replaced the terrible mirrors with some folding off road ones and it’s a big improvement. I actually love the deep sound of the exhaust and have no plans to replace. A hard to find neutral is my only complaint of this bike.
Wow! So envious about your mobile office! All that you need, including a motorbike!
Cheers, V.
Thanks, Valerio :)
I also work remotely and plan on doing the EXACT same thing with a GROM! I was taken back by how niche this video was, thank you for it and your thoughtful/insightful commentary.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave your feedback :)
As a proud owner of a 1st gen Grom I enjoyed this video very much. They are great little bikes especially in the city, slower roads and going off the beaten track. I look forward to seeing what you do to yours! Also I'd love to see the occasional van video 👍
Yes, I'm really enjoying my first Grom. More than I thought I would, as the Monkey was a disappointment. I'll have a think about a van vid :)
So happy I found this video. My friends have Groms and I want one…but just because they look fun. However, seeing this video helps me see it really opens up to a different kind of riding all together. I love that with proper tires, it can easily be ridden off road, and in some cases, maybe a little safer vs a bigger bike. I love seeing you taking some of the curvier roads.
I currently ride a Yamaha MT-07, which I thought to be a small bike, but I think the Grom will still bring somewhat of a different ride experience. Thank you!!
You’re welcome. It’s a fun little bike. Way less power than the MT07, however, so I advise you test it thoroughly first. Great as a second bike👍
@@RocketMan_Moto I’ve ridden a couple. One of my friends has a “clone” mini bike. It will definitely be a second bike, and I’m sure I won’t be riding on the same roads and in the same way I ride as I do the MT-07. It’s for fun, scooting around town . However, I liked how you were able to take it off road. I think I will hold out for the newer 2022 vs an older one…still weighing pros/cons. Thanks again!!
It’s really easy to handle off road👍
Living the dream!
That mobile office is wonderful!
Thank you. There's been quite a lot of interest in my van, so I'll be posting a video on it very soon :)
Would be interested in seeing the van conversation to an office. Nice set up
OK, Ian, I will have a think about how to do a van vid. There seems to be as much - if not more - interest in the van than the Grom, lol :)
New grom looks as nice as that backdrop
Thanks. Yes, we live in a pretty region :)
I prefer the sportier sf, but it do look nice
What a perfect narration voice you have! Love the grom, we’ve got a pair of mk1’s tricked up for off road. Glad they’ve gone back to a flat seat, really wasn’t a fan of the mk2
Thank you :) The Grom is a great little bike for off-road escapades, although obviously for shorter trips. Yes, the flat seat definitely helps larger riders like me.
Best review for the grom I’ve seen so far all the information you need and nothing you don’t good job man you have a new subscriber
Thanks👍😊
When I said I was looking forward to seeing your UA-cam review I didn’t think it’d be this soon! For all the reasons you mention, Paul, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this, your latest acquisition. 👍
No messing once I get going😀
I have had a monkey 125 2019 from new makes me smile every time I ride it so much fun 3500 miles on it now
That’s a very healthy mileage for a Monkey, well done👍😀
The purchase makes perfect sense. As a real bike lover I like them all.
Me too. If I could afford to run 10 bikes, one from each category, I would have them :)
Happy days ahead two up on a grom .please let us all see some videos of that. Terry Sutton coldfield England
Thanks, Terry. Yes, we are looking forward to doing some nice trails together, possibly with a little picnic strapped... somewhere on the bike :)
Yes please, I’d like to hear a detailed review of your van please. What you did, how and why and also what its like to live with a van, thanks.
OK, I will have a think about how to do a van vid. There seems to be as much - if not more - interest in the van than the Grom, lol :)
Hi, it seems interest is growing about how you morphed your van into a home office… I would be delighted to learn about all the little add-ons you equipped your van with (ie. the desk, customized ?) kind regards, Pierre
Haha, I know. People seem more interested in the van than the Grom :) I can understand that, though, and am already thinking of doing a proper 'van vid'!
You're never too old for wheelies. Also, perfect example of 'man maths' justifying the purchase of a new bike to fit in the 'office'. ;)
Not really. I could afford a much more premium bike if I really wanted, but I don’t 😊
Love the Grom and the van! I've got a similar setup to you with a 125 Monkey and a Trident, compliment each other very well. Fantastic video as always 👍
Thanks! Great minds think alike... I mentioned in the video that I had a Monkey a couple of years ago when they first came out, but I didn't have a use for it at the time. The Grom offers 2-up riding (just about!), so that is a plus for us. The Monkey definitely looks cuter, though! Ride safe :)
Great video, like always. Yes the tour van video is a good idea 👍🏼
Thank you. Yes, I've got the message from you all - a proper 'van vid' is in the pipeline :)
@@RocketMan_Moto we’ll be waiting for that. Thanks 🙏
Thanks for your thoughts about this bike, you have an awesome place to ride.
Thank you for your comment. Portugal does have some beautiful scenery :)
Please do the van video! I am working also remotely and my thoughts circle around this idea as well.
OK, Peter, I will have a think about how to do a van vid. There seems to be as much - if not more - interest in the van than the Grom, lol :)
@@RocketMan_Moto thank you. Make sure the Grim gets enough space in the video - I am interested how it fits when it is in and secured. And avoids carping comments that you tried to sneak in some "inappropriate" content into your channel 😉
Evening! Saw the new Grom today. Also a few Africa Twins and big KTMs, but bloody hell that little Grom tickled my fancy. Enjoyed the video. Thanks 👍
Haha, yes it’s great fun😊
Your voice would be perfect for scary stories. Please do one with just rain as the background
Lol :)
Back in the late 70s and early 80s in Houston Texas USA there’s a radio show that came on that was called mystery theater and It was narrated with a voice like his.
@@omarmaga7473 Oh my gosh that's great. See you get you get it! 🤣😂
At 187mm tall, it would be humorous to see you standing on the pegs on those little off road trails. A clever choice considering your reasoning for this bike, fits perfectly in the van and so easy to manoeuvre.
You have to accept that you will always look slightly ridiculous on a Grom, but it doesn't bother me, because it's so much fun. I must admit I haven't tried standing on the pegs yet, lol :)
Such a nice and presented video!! Love the accent and vocabulary. Easy to understand the Grom from your perspective. Love the mods you did on the van.
My guess is that you're an Engineer of some sorts.
Thanks for sharing!!
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I'm actually a linguist by training, not an engineer at all, although I am interested in many things :)
You outfitted it with semis. Well done!
Cool set up. I have a Citroen Relay camper, and carry a Fantic Caballero 500. And an ebike. And a kayak.
Retirement.....I was born for it!
Perfect combination👍
Great setup all around. Love it.
Thanks 😊
Came for the Grom, stayed for the melodic narration and quality video! 👌
Thanks, Kyle. The Grom is still worth checking out, though :)
Hi there. Last month I bought a 2022 Grom (US model year) to be delivered in February. The long wait is due to a shortage of them in the US. I've neither ridden nor even seen one in person but wanted it based on reviews such as yours. I've been riding for 59 years (I'm 75) on different bikes in Europe, SE Asia and Central America. I sold my last bike a year ago, thinking it was my last steed until the Grom! BTW, we have several things in common. Last year I bought a Nissan NV200 like yours and converted it into a tiny campervan. I'm planning to transport the Grom in my campervan (after removing the sofa/bed) and your video proves that it can be done!! (I just need that folding ramp.) Like you, I also have a soft spot for Portugal. I've been there 5 times, 3 of which were for hiking the camino. We've just rented an Airbnb apartment in Luz (Western Algarve) for a short stay in April-May. I do not normally subscribe to UA-cam channels but had just clicked the subscribe button to yours because of these common interests!! I dont comment on videos either but have just done so. Thanks, MC! Safe riding!
Nice, thanks for your input and your sub' :) The Grom is a great companion to any van or camper; I hope it brings you much pleasure :)
Awesome review. Great job editing the content. I have the same dual tone icon jacket - it's fab. You're van build looks sweet. Ty for the vid. I want a grom :).
Thanks for your kind words of encouragement😊
Would love to see more of the bike, there’s a lack of videos about it at the moment
More videos in the pipeline. I agree there are very few about the 2021 for some reason.
Enjoyed this very much thank you . Mine on order to arrive July . Love your roads for green landing .
Thank you, Percy. You might also like my 1-month owner’s review video😊
I bought my self a 2022 Grom . My first mini..... I plan on keeping it stock . Possibly a tail tidy but not real sure . I really like it .
Enjoy😊
I have a 2017 Kawasaki z125 pro and I love it. These small bikes can go anywhere.
Indeed they can :)
Thanks for this review. Really appreciate it and also the candid mature opinion
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement😊
Great set up RM, Subbed. I have some great ride memories of Portugal, loved it there. Also have vids of it in my Africa & Europe playlist.
Thank you for the sub. Yes, Portugal is a very pretty place, but my wife keeps telling me how amazing the Florida Keys are :)
@@RocketMan_Moto yes its nice. Right now Florida is open and its flooded with tourists for vacations and or getting the vaccine which is free for anyone from anywhere. So lodging is super expensive. Let me know when you visit. Im in Miami.
My wife insists that we go asap. We would quite like to retire there, but the problem would be the residents’ visas. I’m British and she’s Brazilian. Know any good immigration lawyers?😬
@@RocketMan_Moto lol
Thanks for the video, I am looking at buying a Grom as a second bike for short journeys and to lend to one of my sons who has just passed his test. You have just about convinced me (together with other tubers)
Thank you, John. The Grom makes for an excellent first bike; my wife enjoys it immensely, as she's only 5'3". Ride safe :)
Very well produced video. Informative and entertaining. Thinking about getting a GROM myself and your presentation was very helpful. Thank you.7
Thanks, William😊
Never too old for wheelies
I love the van and the Grom. Enjoy
Thanks, Tom :)
My first bike was a Yamaha DT125LC and 30 years and a few bikes later, I bought an used Yamaha DT125R. So light, so much fun. Very different from the big thumpers I still drive most of the time, and that's the point: a breathe of fresh air (well, not for the following vehicles who enjoy the blue smoke of the two-stroke engine). And I do like the sound of a 2-stroke 125 cc...
I agree. So refreshing to have something light and easy to ride. I'm still enjoying my Trident, though :)
Great bike, great video. 166 mpg is Incredible.
Thanks, Paul. Yes, it's almost free transportation, at least compared to bigger bikes :)
It was a pleasure to listen to your video, thank you.
Thank, Kevin :)
Another interesting video you've made. Well done. Perfect bike for a camper too.
Thanks, Jim :)
Good video. I picked a used Honda PCX 150 that I can carry with my old Chevy Blazer on a hitch rack. Having loads of fun on back roads and even some gravel ones.
Ah, similar recipe! Best of both worlds, eh? Ride safe :)
You sir, know how to live. I too am 6'1". Thanks for your review of the Grom!
Thanks😊
Looks like a Vivaro or Trafic. I also fitted my van out during the first lockdown, it's a Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive LWB. I did consider buying a Honda Grom and fitting a rear motorcycle rack, but have since converted my MTB to an e-bike and enjoying it more on the trails and loosing weight.
If you do a YT search for Vauxhall Vivaro Campervan my video should be second from the top. Very envious of your sunshine, very cold here at the moment for the month of May. 👍
Thanks, Irish. It's actually a Fiat Talento, but yes, a Vivaro underneath. SWB. I should have got a bike, or maybe an ebike, but I'm a petrolhead at heart and couldn't resist the new Grom, especially as it's not that much more expensive than a decent MTB, lol :) I'll check out your video now :)
Nice looking town you rode through.
It's Albufeira in the central Algarve :)
I bought a 2021 Honda Monkey for a very specific purpose as well. I own a second home in Lakeside, AZ in the White Mountains. There are few things I enjoy more than to ride my Honda Monkey on trails this time of year in Lakeside, AZ.
I hear you! The Grom is a great little 'second bike' for those secret trails. I used to have a Monkey, but found that not being able to take a passenger at all, even for just a few hundred metres, was a bit limiting. Ride safe :)
All makes perfect sense to me. Certainly living the dream. Being able to work anywhere in the world, wifi/phone signal permitting, then go off for a ride to de stress etc. What's not to like 👍✌
Thanks. I have been working towards this ideal ever since I first encountered the Internet in a public library in Chicago in the mid 1990s :)
Allways so nice to see your vídeos. Um abraço do norte
Obrigado, Gaspar :)
I had a tweaked 2014 Grom for a bit. Great fun little bikes 👍
Agreed, great fun :)
The aftermarket exhausts just make them sound like dirtbikes, are dirtbikes not very common in the UK? Most Canadians and probably Americans find the sound nostalgic, I know I do lol
I think dirt bikes are available pretty much everywhere. However, I would still argue that the sound they produce is disagreeable. I guess everyone is different :)
Man you live in paradise! Nice grom. just put a dhm stage 3 on mine.
Enjoy😎
Barragem do Funcho....great views on that place....in the past it was possible to go on top of the wall of the barragem do Funcho!!! And for the next time try to hide the license plate of the van!!! Even in my city (Silves) they try to stolen things from Cars!!! Abraços de um admirador do seu trabalho!!!
Yes, a fabulous place. You're right about the van license plate - I forgot :)
Great vid! I can agree with you on the vibrations on the 500x ! Love the grom and the reason for its purchase. I recently parked my current steed (2015 BMW R1200GSA) next to a Grom - looked positively tiny !! Looking forward to the next instalment.
Lol, I can imagine! The Grom must be literally half the size of the GSA! :)
Nice review! Never really considered a Grom. You’re spot on in regard to the mirrors! In the video, all you can see in the mirrors is your shoulders! The mirrors are practically useless in my opinion! Lol…. And, ride safe!
Thanks, Willy. Yes, the mirrors definitely need changing. I know everyone moans about not being able to see much in motorbike mirrors, but these are truly awful, lol :)
New subscriber.
Your style of description is superb. Of course you should go on and on about your van.
Thanks, Ray. There has been a lot of interest in the van - maybe more than in the Grom, lol - so a video is on the way :)
Your never to old for wheelies (68year old motorcyclist who loves wheelies)
Awesome video. I also own a 2015 Grom so was interested to know about your off-road experience.
Thanks 😊
Magic video. I fancy either a Grom or a Monkey bike too. We are trying to get back to the Algarve this year but my daughter is still waiting for her 2nd jab. Subscribed.
Thanks, Jonathan :) I will concede that the Monkey is the cuter of the two, but the Grom can (just about) take a passenger, and that was important for us. Hope you can all make it down here very soon. It's hot but lonely :)
I’d be interested in your van conversion and other exploits. I’ve just bought a Trident here in the UK, one month wait for the silver, December for the black version! Went for silver, can’t wait that long. Sorry, forgot to mention the Grom. Looks like fun with the set up you have, seems ideal.
Thanks, Nick. Yes, I'm enjoying the Grom and the Trident in equal measure, although obviously they are completely different machines. The van video is in the pipeline :)
I’ve driven my 2021 Grom now for approx 680km. Cause i’m breaking it in currently i havent pushed the engine yet so i cant compare the performance to my OG Grom, but i do agree on some of your comments about it. The suspension is the same as before, engine sound, yes it got some mechanicly grinding sounds (doesnt sound great imo) but i still do want to change the OEM exhaust with something else because i do love how the Grom’s sound with aftermarket ones. You’re spot on the torque side of the engine, it feels like it has more torque in low/mid range of the rpm (they are stating higher compression ratio for this engine though). All in all, i just love it and i’m so excited to start modding it :D
Thanks for your feedback. Nice to know it’s an improvement on the last generation. It’s my first Grom, but it’s already better than my 2018 Monkey😊
@@RocketMan_Moto it’s a blast to drive :) Norwegian Grom community isnt so big compare to our friends in the west or as in Thailand, but our FB group has passed 700 members now, and thats a start. I do hope this thing takes the market with great sales again. This is my only bike atm, bought it for two reasons: price and size. I have driven SV 650/1000, CB650 etc...i have never before had so much attention around driving a Grom than any other bike i’ve owned, ppl love it, thumbs up and come around to talk about their experience with Honda mini bikes when they were younger😅
Couldn’t agree more👍
Great style and gearbox update, but would have been nice to follow other 125’s like the PCX and offer a 160cc version outside Europe - would definitely make it a bit more usable!
Agreed. I wish they made a 250 Grom for those of us with a full bike licence :)
New Grom coming on Friday - can't wait. Would love a van review, what is it? Where did you get the ramp? (sorry for so many questions)
Enjoy your new Grom! Van overview here: ua-cam.com/video/1M7uVP2btKg/v-deo.html
I owned last gen grom. I found that replacing the intake but keeping the stock exhaust yielded the most fun sound (people say it sounds like a angry pig). Does it match a vtwin or inline 4? No, no ware near it, but I think its kind of a silly and fun bike so I kind of wanted to make it have a silly and fun sound.
I agree, a silly & fun bike and I think that’s why we all love it😊
Awesome vid. Great audio!
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it :)
Good video. Like few have commented it would be nice to see how you converted your Van.
Thanks, Lyn. OK, I will have a think about how to do a van vid. There seems to be as much - if not more - interest in the van than the Grom, lol :)
I picked up a low mileage 2018 Grom a year ago and use it for commuting. I like it but wish it were about 10 mph faster. I did add a Zoom pipe which sounds better (not too loud and not too expensive). The Grom seat is horrible but I had a spare gel pad from an earlier bike and it works well. I have been considering replacing the Grom with a Honda 300. The Grom spends time with: 2009 Bonneville, 2018 Burgman 200 and a 1964 Honda CA200 (90cc). My lovely wife disagrees with my need for two more bikes. A wonderful first world problem. Ride safe Rocketman.
Lol, thanks Jeffrey. Having more than one bike (like you & I do) is totally unnecessary, but wonderful :) The Grom is good fun in the hills, my playground, but I agree it's a bit limited on the road. Ride safe :)
One never has enough of what his hobby/love entails. Like, 5 guitars, 5 ukes, a dozen of so blues harps, two violins, pennywhistles, NAF flutes, etc. -it just doesn't stop. I AM, however, running out of room! I feel your pain. BTW - I got rid of two wives... just sayin'... ; )
Well, and as you allude in your opening, who would've thought the RocketMan would be tooling around on a Grom (Grom or Grommet: a young participant in extreme sports [Wikipedia]). I completely understand the attraction and utility. I love my Aprilia Mojito 150 scooter for many of the same reasons: easy to jump and go, very maneuverable, perfect on neighborhood streets in suburbia, cheap to operate, etc. Firing up the Super Magna is more of a commitment. The Grom seems perfect for trails through the maquis as well as the small roads leading there.Your stable grows.
Thanks, Timothy. Yes, the Grom has severe limitations, but as a toy to take on picnics, etc. it's more practical than a full-size machine. Ride safe :)
Great photography
Thank you😊
Please, more about the van. It is a reason I want a Grom as well, but I had considered a Honda Element.
More on the van very soon. We don't get the Honda Element here in Europe, what is it? :)
@@RocketMan_Moto The Honda Element is a discontinued SUV. It looks like a box version of the Honda Ridgeline (truck) and was very utilitarian. Though no longer in production, used ones are quite popular even with very high miles.
I look forward to your van overview and more Grom videos.
The Grom is the perfect bike to put in your van. I don't have a van but would quite like a very small bike for doing the Algarve trails on, and I don't want a CRF or anything. I would consider a Grom like yours, although I'd prefer a Suzuki VanVan 200 but they are not available in Europe. I am thinking of getting one for similar use in Thailand. Nice van, as well.
Thanks! The VanVan would be great. I would be able to call my mobile office "the VanVanVan" :)
I'm very interested in your van build! I also just finished my motorcycle endorsement course where i used the Grom, great bike 👍
Have you seen the van video?
ua-cam.com/video/1M7uVP2btKg/v-deo.html
For the details on the van: Yes, please. And, if I can push my luck, I'd like to know how the Street Triple fitted in. In all honesty, I am ( and have been for the last two years) considering the exact same setting for myself ....and my street triple is due on 15 June. OOPS, I almost forgot to mention the quality of your vids and your butterscotch smooth voice. 👍
OK, I'll have a think about a specific video on the van. Thanks! The Street Triple will fit, at least my 2017 RS with its bar end mirrors did, though like the Trident I needed to use the power of the engine to get it up the ramp.
@@RocketMan_Moto It is exactly was I'm getting: the Street Triple RS (albeit the 2021 model). Thanks for your feedback.
Enjoy! Fab bike👍😎
Hello there,
you know that you're living in paradise - do you?
I'm not jealous - at least I hope so....
But sometimes people who live in such places don't see the beauty surrounding em.
Hope you do. You sound to me like someone who does.
The bike, the van, yes realy good too.
Like the new grom, at first I didn't like the new light, but overall ist's an improved bike.
Have fun, stay safe and have allways a good time - life is too short for too much bad times.
Thanks, Christoph. Yes, it is very pretty down here, but there are always downsides to any location :)
new bars such as protaper xr50 or klx110 are also lighter and wider, meaning you get better front end control
Ah ok. Thanks :)
Looks good, if "Lost with Mike" can put 80K touring miles on his 50cc Ruckus then the Grom has just as much potential. Want a little moto for Van camping trips in the future too.
Exactly. Stay tuned for more van/moto videos :)
I strongly recommend a front mud guard extender if you can find one. I also enjoy riding my grom in the forest and small rocks jumping from the front tire completely destroyed the paint on my cylinder head. It would be better to install a small bash plate but I haven't been able to find such thing for grom.
Thanks for the warning, Hasan. Do you have a link to a suitable mudguard extender? :)
@@RocketMan_Moto I've found "Puig Front Fender Extender " for grom 2017-2020. It maybe works for the 2021? A bit pricey though. 50$
Great, thank you. I’ll take a look😊
Would love to see a van video! I have the same eco flow river for powering a trailer I converted for a similar use.
Van video is coming soon :)
Holy fuck that scenery looks beautiful
Yes, Portugal is a very pretty place :)
I own one of the Chinese grom clones with an upgraded carburetor and exhaust, this allows me to run side by side with my grom friends. I've gone from the original street Michelins to the off-road knobbies to a set of Kenda dual sport tires and have found the Kenda's to be the most comfortable. As for the vibrations, I chalk that up to it being a cheap copy although I've changed out certain nut and bolts, metric to a bigger US standard, and have managed to lesson the vibrations somewhat. As I paid less than 1000$ for mine, I don't mind spending a little on it to make it ride better including a new seat. 58mph is plenty on this little bike, if I want to go faster I have bikes made for that.
Thanks for your feedback😊
More about the van 🚐
In the pipeline👍😊
These bikes are great, which ever model year you buy. Just a tad pricey in the UK. Five speed might make all the difference.
I agree they're expensive for what they are, but 5 gears is a definite improvement. My 2018 Monkey only had 4 and that did feel a bit limited. Ride safe :)
Cool bike, video, etc, BUT where was this filmed??? It’s a beautiful backdrop! Cheers from Florida.
Southern Portugal :)
@@RocketMan_Moto Wow, that is stunning, definitely just added this to my bucket list of places to travel! Take care!
Hi, great little video. Have thought about the grom for our A Class MH as a run around country lanes and villages only, but is it upto the job for me and my wife for short runs out. We have thought about Honda, s sh125 but a tight fit for the garage. Keep you vids coming always interesting, cheers.
Thanks, Phil. My wife and I took the Grom to a restaurant yesterday about 5 miles away. No problem on ‘slow’ roads, but I wouldn’t feel comfortable on any roads you constantly need to ride at 45mph+, because acceleration is woeful with 2 people. We have a Vision 110 which is just as bad😂
@@RocketMan_Moto thanks for the response, not sure if we will get a rack for the MH to give me some other choices but like the idea of something so easy to live with. Anyway thanks again and how I envy where you live with a lot more sunshine 🤣🌞. Cheers. 👍
came for the grom stayed for the sexy van upgrade WOW
Haha, thanks :)
Very nice report and perfect to understand : )
Thanks, Tom
Did you consider the C125 at all? Would be interested in terms of how they fare vs a Grom for 'pootle factor'
Tbh, I didn't: the Cub looks nice and I'm sure my wife would like one to go to the shops on, but I wanted something a bit more toy-like for the forests and hills we have around here :)
Taking a dump in a van isn't as good as taking a dump on a van. Much like peeing into a pool is better than peeing in the pool. You only live once, get weird. Great video RocketMan.
I would love to see a video on the van. My bikes are my primary transportation, but I do have an old pickup for when I need to haul things or when the weather gets to bad to ride a couple weeks out of the year. I've been thinking my next 4 wheeled vehicle would be a cargo van for the same type of use as yours. I currently ride a FZ6 as my all around bike and Kymco Spade 150 as my mini motorcycle fun bike.
You can see my van video here: ua-cam.com/video/1M7uVP2btKg/v-deo.html
Man that van looks like a dream but for me I love pitbikes for small trails and portability, here in the US there is a lot of cool 125-200cc pitbikes that are road legal and cheap so that my personal preference because I love carburators over fuel injection because I like to tinker and tune my bikes.
Sounds great.
I'd like to know about the work you do that you can do from anywhere.
I'm a translator :)
@@RocketMan_Moto bom
I want to go to Portugal and grom around...
'Grom around', I like that! :)