Honda Trail 125: Accessories, Mods, & Hacks

[@TheHavnmonkey]

I do not have a CT125, but it is on my short list for a light weight adventure bike (I’m used to bicycles, so no desire for a big bike!)… for those that are interested in milk crates, you can cut the bottom off a 2nd crate to make a nice lid. If you want some top storage leave the bottom section on the donor crate when you cut it off. I’ve used a Japanese style pull saw with good success. The bottom will nest in the 1st milk crate and you can use zip ties as hinges.

[@muckle8]

Good hack , thx for the tips

[@kirajarm]

FYI, the document compartment is only found on the Super Cub. Thank you for taking the time to record this and post it 👍👍👍

[@On2Feet]

Yeah, that's what I figured, especially since the "document bag" is what is found in the toolbox. It's weird they'd keep it noted in the owners manual though. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@jamesb.armstrong5433]

I installed (bolted) a Bauer small tool box on my bike. It's an enclosed box for securing things. I also bought the tote that will snap onto the box. I use it to carry larger things that won't fit into the box. When I don't need it I take it off. This system works very well for me.

[@Theophilus1968]

K.I.S.S. Rule! ❤ I want to buy one of these so bad… if it would just do 60mph comfortably for very short stints on the freeway. I probably have to go with a Vespa. Great vids.

[@JohnnyLREACTS]

I think I have finally decided this will be my first bike. Love the shifting as a newb rider, have ridden them a lot in Europe. Think I will incorporate some of these add ons good mods!

[@On2Feet]

Excellent! I hope you have good luck finding one...I know it can be pretty hit or miss.

[@ramsien]

If you decided you wanted to give the license plate box another try you could always stash the key on the bike, under the seat, in the took kit, or in that magnet box.

[@jaykay1207]

Great portrayal of the addons. Like the simplicity and the usefulness. Thank you

[@On2Feet]

Thanks Jay. Glad it was helpful

[@filobetobaby]

I just got my trail last Friday. For the USB connection I ran a battery tender up near the forks, then ran a matching 2 plug from the USB and connected them. Easy peasy and less wires to the battery.

[@On2Feet]

Yeah I almost did this exact same thing as well. Ultimately I decided I wanted the separate connection near the rear. But your right about battery connections. I had a heck of a time getting things connected and the battery cover back on flush

[@filobetobaby]

@@On2Feet I struggled for a bit and went and bought longer bolts for the battery terminals. And it's ridiculous that they would make the accessory hole just a little too small, but they did! Small aggravations for a great little bike 😊

[@MrEye4get]

Toe and heel shifters are easier to use when standing on the pegs. Good for an "off-road" bike. Raising the heel pedal slightly helps you feather the clutch when downshifting. Cool idea to velcro documents under the seat. I secure my took box with a cheap little carabiner; found on cheap keychains. Amazing all the tools you fit in the tiny bag!

[@On2Feet]

Whoops...I replied to the wrong comment here before....sorry about that. Yeah the underseat velcro docs works great and getting the tools to fit is definitely a game of tetris. I have to put them in exactly right for the door to shut.

[@jaykay1207]

Great advice This bike is to come to India early next year Got my eyes on it

[@joelhurst5]

Great tips and such a great video over all. Thank you. I picked up a 2023 back in Aug and have enjoyed every minute of it.

[@beachthor1]

AZ would be such a subunit place to have that bike, got family in Tucson and vail, always love the trails out there

[@NitwitMN]

I think I’ll benefit about a half dozen ways from your counsel. So smart with the first aid kit, the crate mount, and more. Big thanks from Minnesota 2021 VINs ending 199 & 811

[@ShahryarSaigol]

Heel/Toe shifter is there because many office workers commute on these bikes in Asia. The heel shifter allows one to shift without scuffing office shoes. So its not just for slippers.

[@On2Feet]

Fair point...I hadn't really considered that, but it makes perfect sense.

[@paulprice9272]

So I just got my brand new 125. I smell a burning plastic smell only after running it a minute. What is up with that? And where is a legit safe place online to buy accessories specifically for this bike?

[@beck4u2]

Very thought out tips. Thanks for the video!

[@Titanykus]

Cool idea that crate. I like the fact that you can strap stuff on the outside of it. I am definitely copying your ideas. Thank you, great video.

[@packofhounds]

This was a really informative video with a lot of clever practical ideas. I just got my Trail 125 last night. I still haven't even taken it off my truck yet (going to do it right now). I am going to take a lot of your ideas into consideration for my own bike. Thanks for the list of items in the description.

[@On2Feet]

Thanks so much! So far, I’ve still got my trail set up the same way…and have loved it. The only change I could maybe make is swapping out crate for a closable hard case.

[@ericwilkins7841]

Very well thought it and tasteful! Congratulations on your machine!

[@darkkingastos4369]

The reason they use the heel toe shifter is because the clutch requires a lot more pressure to upshift than a traditional clutch when going uphill. You could put a bruise on your foot trying to upshift uphill with your toes.. and if you fail going uphill and shifting you could drop the bike and dump the kids

[@riserofevil7656]

Very well done video. Useful information, no annoying background music, reasonably concise.

[@On2Feet]

Glad you liked it!

[@MadsWorld34]

2 years after getting mine i am still adding mods to mine. a dollar here and there and about got it where i want it. right now i am working on sprockets. i have found Stock your not getting anymore speed period. just less RPMS . so i have found a 15/41 works the best stock is 1.78 gear ratio. and the 15/41 is 2.73. and where this helps is if you know you going off roading you can change the front sprocket to a 14 or 13 and get more off road power. cant go to a 16 tooth because it will hit the cover. but like i said keeping the engine stock it just dont have the power to get you more speed. i am thinking of going to a big bore kit but its hard to change something that works so good as it is. and i cant find any videos of people using a big bore kit on how they lasted.

[@MadsWorld34]

i have rode Harleys my entire life so i love the heel toe shifter.

[@montgomery9140]

Very slick, especially all the quick links to the accessories. I will be implementing a few of your ideas on my CT125. THANKS!

[@On2Feet]

Glad it was helpful! Full disclosure, the links are amazon affiliate links, so using them does help support my channel a very tiny bit (so I do appreciate it!)

[@ronvidad]

Great Video!! Just put a deposit on a 2023 Trail 125 so will be implementing some of the Hacks/MODs and tips from your video!

[@On2Feet]

I hope it comes in quickly! I got lucky with mine and only waited about 3-4 months. I have a deposit on a different bike now that I put down about 8 months ago.....and still waiting.

[@doug2078]

Cool Video Great Tips !!! A local dealer near me was allocated ( 4 ) 125's Unfortunately when I got there yesterday the last one was sold that morning. So now my name is first on the waiting list. I did get a chance to sit on the last one before it was picked up. Can't wait to get one !!

[@On2Feet]

If you’re #1 on list that’s a good place to be. Any word from the dealer on when they may get more? If anything it gives you time to save more for accessories :-). Seriously though, I’ve really enjoyed mine and am so glad I bought it (even if it tops out in the low 50’s as far as speed goes)

[@doug2078]

@@On2Feet The dealer had no idea when they were getting more.They were shocked they got (4) 125's

[@gregb.6682]

I truly enjoyed your helpful post.

[@Totally163]

Great video. You have some excellent ideas.

[@skatefreak93]

Appreciate the video! Thanks!

[@On2Feet]

Anytime my friend. Hopefully you found at least a few things useful out of this.

[@flhxri]

on the super cub there is a lever under the seat that opens the side compartment.

[@On2Feet]

I WISH this existed on the Trail! It would be perfect! Sadly, it doesn't :-(

[@vazquezeliezer]

Great information! Well done!

[@terry-cl6hh]

I use a food delivery bag... it has tie down straps and it is water proof

[@charlesconto3154]

Just got my 23’ Trail yesterday, love it so far! Where can you get the net that goes on top of your milk crate? Thank you, very informative video and definitely subscribed.

[@On2Feet]

I think I just got it on amazon. Here is a link to the ones I think that I ordered: amzn.to/3otR37C

[@kenfldude]

I use the same crate but I just zip tie mine on cause I never take it off. Love the way it collapses.

[@kenfldude]

Also, would love a detachable wind screen for those full out road excursions

[@willyd-adv]

FYI the heel shift isn't really meant fir your heel, you instead just move your whole foot backwards and use your toe to push down on the rear of the shifter

[@eugeneteo9664]

looks like you are going somewhere.cheers.

[@Chad-wb7du]

I would recommend getting the quad lock vibration dampener. Without it, the vibrations will ruin your camera. Ask me how I know lol

[@On2Feet]

Indeed! You can’t see it in video, but it’s there. It’s standard for my quad lock builds.

[@Chad-wb7du]

@@On2Feet awesome. Great video 👍

[@williammack3018]

Great post. Very helpful.

[@LoneRiderSolo]

No long trips. In Texas they drive at warp speed on the open roads. 95-120 mph. No matter where I am on the Africa Twin at a steady 90 mph, I get passed. Highways and CT 125 equals a very bad idea.

[@jaywinters2483]

Heel shifter if for Asian users as they often ride with flip flops. Oil filter is on right side.

[@jo_arc]

Great tips. Thanx. Subscribed :)

[@shanewooll8654]

Nice bike and good video. I would be really impressed if you could remove a tire with that tool kit though.

[@TeamDNFracing]

Try this with the heel shifter. Take your foot off the footpeg and place your toe on the heel shifter to up shift. Of course, here in Thailand, we use the heel shifter to downshift as the shift pattern between Asia and the US is backwards. I have a video out on that if you'd like to try that method.... That way you can ride with flip-flops on like we do here.... As for the huge rear rack, I ditched that really heavy rack for a much slimmer and lighter Diablo rack from K-Speed. I lightened the bike by five pounds by doing this and still have more than enough room for what I carry with my on Adventure Rides, check out my KZbin channel for this and more.

[@On2Feet]

It’s funny you say that about using my toes to back press on the rear shifter. That is the only way it does work for me and I do sometimes do that. (And it works great that way). I had no idea your shifting pattern was backwards there. Fascinating. At any rate, you’ve got a great channel. I definitely picked up some good tips from you, so cheers!

[@TeamDNFracing]

@@On2Feet Just watched your single track video, sand can be a bitch with stock tires..... I'd definitely get a set of more aggressive tires if you're going to ride out there very much...... Keep making the videos, we'll mention you on our channel....

[@tonydoggett7627]

It doesn’t look right riding in flip flops, unless your jacket is on backwards.

[@TeamDNFracing]

@@tonydoggett7627 Actually, we are in the tropics here in Thailand, so I rarely wear a jacket, but next time I do, I'll slide it on backwards and see how that goes.... You never know, I may start a new trend.....

[@tonydoggett7627]

@@TeamDNFracing I spent some time in Malaysia and they would wear the rain jackets backwards, and open at the back, because of the heat. Would stop the wet road grime getting on their shirt.

[@williamscott1915]

great video. good ideas. is the Big Ant milk crate a medium or a small? I ordered a medium but it seems bigger than the one in this video. Thanks

[@On2Feet]

I always thought it was a medium, but I went back and looked at my order and apparently it is the small. Sorry for the confusion and thanks for pointing this out! I just corrected the link as well. Thanks again.

[@markkus1134]

Maybe replace the gear shifter with a toe shifter only I’ve always like the trail 90’s 110’s a buddy just picked up a trail 110 with 36 original miles on it! I wanted a 125 but picked up a 2008 Yamaha WR 250r with 3800 orig miles so the Honda will have to wait a bit

[@PalmuserSavage]

Thank you so much. 😊

[@nivlac_dj6327]

Ive seen some people cut off the foot shifter so they dont accidentally stand on it off road and slip the clutch

[@creiser77]

Thank you, for sharing your ideas

[@On2Feet]

You are so welcome!

[@dw3897]

Good video. If it were mine I'd buy a second shifter & just cut off the heel arm leaving only the toe shifter. Keep the original one in case you ever sell the bike.

[@On2Feet]

Exactly. I have one of these on order to do just this: hdmoto.com/moto/honda-crf250l-offset-forged-shift-lever-81293

[@Pearl-hs4zh]

Hi. Is the plastic box very tough? Worry it's flimsy and Crack. Nice video! Now the only con is hard to buy one

[@DaninVA]

Great video. Why do you carry two Crescent wrenches? Seems to me, the large one is all you would need.

[@On2Feet]

Honesty I can't remember if there was a specific reason to have both, but I know the little one just fit in the tool bag, so I just included it.

[@gatorbobinc]

outstanding video. Thank you. Big Ant milk crate? Love the collapsing feature. Hard to find the medium online.

[@On2Feet]

Yep...big ant crate. It's been great so far. I actually think mine is a small.

[@On2Feet]

This is the exact one I ordered according to my email: www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200749437_200749437

[@BonesyBaby]

How long are the M6 bolts to mount the milk crate? Great video!

[@On2Feet]

Honestly not sure, I had some leftovers that I bought from the auto store. they are on the shorter side, but I will check.

[@whereisyourtie]

Lots of good info here. Thanks! I've had the Trail for a couple of months now and I've been looking to put some accessories on it so this was very informative!

[@On2Feet]

So glad to hear that you found it useful. Have fun on your Trail! I've been absolutely loving mine.

[@Lemerig]

I really like it where can I buy Honda Trail 125?

[@72PSI]

Thanks for sharing :o)

[@mattg2612]

Cool tips, but unfortunately I bought this tool bag and recommended tools and it doesn’t fit in the tool box on the bike.. I have a 2022, is it possible they put a smaller tool box on the bike this year?

[@On2Feet]

So sorry it doesn’t fit. I suppose it’s possible that it’s different for 22. I will say mine fits incredibly tightly and I have to arrange the tools a certain way. Even then it just barely fits. I had to swap out some of the Cruz tools as they were too long as well.

[@mattg2612]

Ok, I’ll mess around and see if I can make it fit. Thanks for the tips!

[@Idaho-Idaho]

Top notch video, thanks for the information. Took my Trail 125 into the dealer yesterday and got knobby tires - front and back. Shinko 241's. The street tires the bike comes with are a challenge to use off-road. I thought it was my lack of skill as to why the bike was slipping sideways through the sand/gravel. Oh no, it was the stock tires.

[@On2Feet]

Yep, I've got Shinko 241's sitting in an online "shopping cart" ready to buy. I just can't justify getting them yet when I still have so much life on the stock tires. I recognize that they are great off road, but so far they've been relatively adequate (at least enough that I'm ok with it)

[@adrianotero7963]

The tires is comes with from factory are a good compromise.....most people will be riding more time on pavement and knobby tires on wet pavement are dangerous......

[@cody7321]

I ordered the usb off your list. Haven’t had time yet to mess with it, but are the wires that come with it long enough? Or do I need to make some longer ones to reach the battery and have slack for the forks to move?

[@On2Feet]

Yeah two quick things worth noting.....First, I had to file out the opening a little with my dremmel. It took maybe 10 minutes of light grinding and it was big enough for the USB Plug. As to your second question...NO they aren't long enough. I just use leftover wire I had and heat-crimped extensions on. I kept the looped ends for connecting to the battery (which by the way, is also kind of a pain). But I actually used my charger today for a longe ride and it worked great!

[@cody7321]

@@On2Feet thank you, I’ll get some before I get started on it.

[@garthvdoviak1521]

how long of M6 bolts do you use for the rack?

[@onemanwolfpack08]

How did you strap down your milk crate?

[@On2Feet]

It’s at the end of the video. I used an old license plate on the bottom and drilled two holes. The I used m6 bolts and large washers to tighten down license plate which locked down crate

[@corpsman247]

Is that a big ant black milk crate? I can only find grey and nothing in medium size. They all seem to be out of stock.

[@On2Feet]

I went back and looked, this was the exact one I ordered: www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200749437_200749437

[@montgomery9140]

Exactly what I’ve found as well. Looks like we’re late to the game, hopefully they’ll come back in stock.

[@hasanuygur84]

İnşallah Türkiye'ye de gelir

[@GAnafisMER]

Great vid, the only thing that worries me is the USB charger install, I've heard opening that panel over the battery is hell

[@On2Feet]

Haha yep…it was definitely a bit of a pain! It took a little work, but I did get everything connected, and the battery cover back on, with a little persistence.

[@howardbodiford7130]

Very good video, how bout that that awful seat ?

[@On2Feet]

ha ha...fair point. I don't think it's that terrible, but I wouldn't want to go on a multi-day trip on it, that's for sure.

[@george1984]

After you los you key, how do you open your small key box with out key😂

[@On2Feet]

Exactly! Part of the reason I opted against it. I didn't want to have to carry a second key all the time, and then worry about it getting lost.

[@brestman1]

Always bring a spare tube

[@On2Feet]

Indeed! Whenever I would go on any sort of adventure on my CT125, I always threw in a spare tube as well as a small pump and some slime. What's great about the 125, is that there's only one size tube!

[@49684]

💎💎💎💎💎

[@TheSuperlouloulou]

That's where my license plate went! 😡

[@On2Feet]

Ha ha nice. I can't even remember where I found the plate to be honest. I think it was in a grocery store parking lot.

[@johnsb1550]

Just a quick question, did you notice any color or measure the amount that came out...I have 2 monkeys 🐒

[@On2Feet]

I'm not sure I understand what you're asking John. Color coming out where? As in the paint rubbing off?

[@johnsb1550]

@@On2Feet no the 50 mile oil change...I have a couple 21 monkeys and when I drained the oil, one at 3 miles, it was greenish and couldn't see through it

[@jackofroses111]

Please, choose M6 x 30 (hex), NOT the M6 x 40 (phillips); thread count matters.

[@On2Feet]

Indeed. They are usually easy to find in an auto parts store as they specifically have a metric nuts/bolts display.

[@austinsuman4090]

Dude the document compartment is where the tool kit is🤦🏼‍♂️😂

[@On2Feet]

Ha ha yes...obviously the bag that comes in the toolbox with the screwdriver is also noted in the owners manual as the "document bag", but what's weird is the owners manual also clearly states "The owner's manual, registration, and insurance information can be stored in the plastic document bag behind the ride side cover". First, no such storage spot exists (and the right side cover cannot be removed easily) and I think this verbiage got accidentally carried over from the super cub where such a spot does exist....and second, there's no way all three of those things would fit in that tiny bag without absolutely mangling the owners manual. Putting the documents in an aloksak waterproof baggy under the seat, is also way more convenient to get to should I need them in a pinch, second, it frees up my tool box for a proper set of tools, so definitely a win win! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@austinsuman4090]

@@On2Feet oooh okay I see what you mean now😂 the only compartment I knew of was where the tool kit is and I don't blame you for putting it under the seat, especially if you do a spare 1 gallon fuel can setup that covers the tool kit. I wouldn't have given it a thought about other Honda's other markets just because I've never bought a new bike that still had an owner's manual 😂 I've been looking into getting a Trail 125 but I can't find any near me. Still a great video you made and I give you props on using sticky notes as reminders, everyone else would probably forget everything they did and make a second video👍

[@geofferyrobertson6608]

what a load of dribble

[@On2Feet]

Sorry it wasn't helpful brother. Happy to fill you in on any specific details you're interested in, or if you have more specific questions I didn't address. I'm sitting at 3 months now, and 1000 km, and so far I've genuinely enjoyed the bike. There are a lot of pros to this little work horse, but also a lot of ....."constructive criticisms" we'll say. At any rate. keep on keepin on, and enjoy whatever you're riding

[@Jesse-lu7bt]

Summit has a relocation oil filter kit I would put small oil engine cooler that's all would do

[@Jesse-lu7bt]

Put free flow muffler onit

[@On2Feet]

I had thought about doing this actually, but did recently let go of the Trail 125 in favor of a CRF300L