The NX250 featured the new MD21E[1] engine which is a liquid-cooled, 249 cc, single-cylinder, four-valve, DOHC, four-stroke with an electric start.

Using the same chassis as the NX250, the AX-1 came standard with alloy rims, aluminum Pro-Link rear suspension this time with a rear disc brake, dual round headlights, taller cams, stainless steel exhaust and different carburetor settings.

Spares commonality with NX250 is high, but certain parts are rare, such as the rear luggage rack, exhaust heat shield, cylinder heads and valve guides and headlights.

Nikasil is a chemically deposited layer of silicon carbide, which is typically twice as hard (on the Mohs scale) as iron/steel liners.

The rear cush drive rubbers are not available and owners have made their own by modifying Honda Civic suspension bushes of similar dimensions, although they rarely fail during the life of the vehicle.