Honda gets closer to its roots with the new Grom, a true beginner bike with design features recognizable to veteran riders.

Countless current riders started on Honda mini bikes—Z50s, CT70s, ST90s. All of those earlier Hondas had distinctive styling: a single-cylinder engine suspended from a single-backbone frame with no down tubes. The engine itself was easily recognizable by its horizontal, forward-pointing cylinder.

Just introduced for North America is the Honda Grom, otherwise known as the MSX125. This uniquely styled city bike has a single backbone frame and uses a 125 cc, two-valve single, features reminiscent of those earlier machines.

The fuel-injected engine produces a claimed 9.7 horsepower and 8 lb-ft of torque, and transfers power to the rear wheel via a clutch-operated, four-speed transmission (as opposed to the semi-auto gearboxes of the earlier mini bikes).

Wheelbase is 1,200 mm (47.2 in.), wheels are 12 inches in diameter, brakes are disc front and rear, and suspension is provided by a 31 mm inverted fork and a single rear shock.

Although this manageable little machine should appeal to Gen Y youth, Motorcycle Mojo veterans will likely agree that it looks like it’ll be loads of fun to ride. Pricing has not yet been released.