Honda ST125 DAX Returns To Europe After 41 Years

Originally launched in 1969, and known as the Trail in the US and Canada, the Honda ST125 DAX returns to Europe for 2022. It’s more than four decades since the model was last available in the UK, with the most recent version sold in Japan until 2003. But the success of the Honda Monkey and MSX125 Grom mean they’re now joined by the simple and authentic new DAX.

The Honda ST125 DAX returns to the line-up in 2022 for the first time in decades

And along with the chrome pillion grab rail, the drive chain cover also means less risk for your clothes. The optinional extras also include heated grips and a rear luggage carrier if you need to shop for supplies.

The new Honda ST125 DAX gets LED lights, a chrome pillion rail and more modern features...
The new Honda ST125 DAX gets LED lights, a chrome pillion rail and more modern features…

While the weight stays low at 107kg wet, the Honda ST125 DAX returns with a larger engine and plenty of modern features. The engine comes from the Super Cub C125, meaning a 124cc air-cooled SOHC two-balvle with 6.9kW peak power and 10.8Nm of torque. And that translates into comfortably cruising around 55mph, even two-up.

A larger capacity, more power, and EURO5 compliant emissions for the new Honda DAX
A larger capacity, more power, and EURO5 compliant emissions for the new Honda DAX

The 4-speed gearbox does away with a clutch lever, and for more ease-of-use, there’s the single-channel ABS, along with LED lights, a round LCD instrument panel, hydraulic front and rear calipers gripping 220/190 discs, and a single catalyser in the exhaust to comply with EURO5 emission regulations. But it’s still contained in the upswept 1970’s style exhaust and heat shield, which echoes dirt bikes and allows for better ground clearance.

Choose from Pearl Nebula Red or Grey paint

And it’s not just the frame and exhaust which echo the original DAX. You also get an authentic fuel tank with a 3.8 litre capacity, claiming to offer around 240km from a single tank. And there’s the chrome front mudguard, the retro paint which includes the DAX logo, and the classic Honda Wing badge. The paint choices are either Pearl Nebula Red or or Pearl Nebula Grey.

Honda have brought back their own retro alternative to the Monkey

The fact that the Honda ST125 DAX returns to the line-up is interesting, considering Honda already offer three simple and practical options. Obviously those looking for a smaller modern machine will be tempted by the Grom, and the CT125 Super Cub is a practical choice for commuting. But there’s definitely a bit of a crossover with the similarly retro Monkey, which differs witha 5-speed gearbox and manual clutch, single seat and larger fuel capacity.

The Honda ST125 DAX returns to offer a mix of fun and practicality

Ultimately the Monkey is probably better for solo urban riders looking to have some fun commuting and riding around town. Whereas the DAX is a better choice if you’re planning for pillions, messing around in the countryside or near the sea, or just prefer the style of it. The price is yet to be announced, but expect it to be near to £4,000, similar to the other three Hondas, with the Super Cub at £3499, and the Monkey at £3,899

For more on new, custom and classic Honda motorcycles, click here. And if you’d prefer to find a classic, secondhand Honda Dax, see if you can find the right one from the selection available via eBay.

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