It was just seven months ago when Honda showed off its futuristic-looking CB125X concept bike in its ‘Design Studio’ area at EICMA 2018. The mini-ADV bike featured a tall windscreen, ultra-compact LED headlights, hand guards, wrap-around skid plate, 19”/17” wire-spoke wheels, and a sweet rally-inspired look to match.

When first put on display in Milan, Italy, the CB125X concept seemed like it might only be an exercise in design by Honda’s Rome R&D center. Honda surely took notice though of the resounding positive feedback toward its concept going around the internet. Smaller, lighter ADV Bikes are the trend of late as well.

Now the red marque has gone a step further and recently registered the CB125X design with the European Patent Office, which could indicate this concept may be on its way to becoming a real production bike. Even better, the detailed photos included in the patent filings look almost identical to the concept – a promising sign that the final design may also be a close match.

Moreover, the CB125X is based on an already existing platform, which makes its exit from concept purgatory an easier escape. Specifically, Honda’s concept shares the engine and frame with the ‘overseas only’ CB125R naked bike, featuring a 125cc water-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed transmission. Weighing in at 277 pounds wet, the CB125R offers a worthy platform for an entry-level adventure bike.

While most in the online adventure riding community have been happy with the look of the machine, many were not so enthusiastic about its 125cc capacity. Such a small engine would not be ideal for North American highways, yet there may be some potential as fun, affordable, transpo that can get you out on weekend adventures.

Clearly a small powerplant hasn’t stopped Honda’s Grom from being a huge sales success here in the US. A brave few are even willing to take the Honda Grom on serious adventures, so why not a CB125X? Compared to the Grom with its 9 horsepower, 125cc air-cooled engine, 4-speed transmission and 63 mph top speed, the CB125X would offer a better platform. Based on the performance of the CB125R, we can assume something in the range of 13 horsepower and an 80 mph top speed. Larger wheels and ergos would also make it more practical for longer distances than the playbike Grom.

Most likely, the CB125X would be slated for European and Asian markets but you never know when Honda might throw caution to the wind and make it available here in the states. This bike could be Honda’s next planned model in their popular miniMoto lineup, making an appearance at this year’s EICMA in November. As of now, we can’t be sure if the CB125X will ever make it to the production line but at least this patent filing is another step in the right direction. Our wish would be for Honda to turn this into a 300 and deliver it worldwide. But if Honda does not end up building it, we can only hope that they take the look of this concept bike and apply it to another production model. The plane-jane CB500X would be a perfect candidate for a makeover!

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Mexico, Africa, Europe, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.