Your Ultimate Guide to 125cc Motorbikes: Where to Start and What to Look Out For
11th May 2024
Are you considering stepping into the thrilling world of motorcycling but aren’t quite sure where to begin? Perhaps you’re eyeing the versatile 125cc motorbikes known for their affordability, accessibility, and manageable power. Whether you’re a novice rider or a seasoned enthusiast, 125cc motorcycles offer an enticing entry point into two-wheeled adventures. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to kickstart your journey with these nimble machines.
Why Choose a 125cc Bike?
- Affordability: 125cc motorcycles are often more budget-friendly than their larger counterparts, both in terms of purchase price and running costs. This makes them an excellent option for those looking to dip their toes into motorcycling without breaking the bank.
- Accessibility: In many countries, you can ride a 125cc bike with just a standard car driving license or a simplified motorcycle license. This accessibility lowers the barrier to entry for new riders and makes the transition to motorcycling smoother.
- Manoeuvrability: With their lightweight and compact size, 125cc bikes are incredibly manoeuvrable, making them ideal for navigating through urban traffic and tight spaces. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring winding country roads, these bikes offer agility and responsiveness.
- Learning Tool: For beginners, 125cc motorcycles provide an excellent platform for honing riding skills before moving on to larger, more powerful bikes. They offer enough power to experience the thrill of riding while still being forgiving enough for novices to learn and grow.
What to Consider When Buying a 125cc Bike
- Purpose: Consider how you intend to use the bike. Are you primarily commuting in the city, embarking on weekend adventures, or a bit of both? Different models cater to different riding styles, so it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your intended usage.
- Budget: Set a realistic budget for your motorcycle purchase, taking into account not just the upfront cost of the bike but also ongoing expenses such as insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Remember that a higher initial investment may save you money in the long run if it means getting a more reliable and durable bike.
- Features and Specifications: Pay attention to the bike’s specifications, including engine performance, fuel efficiency, braking system, suspension, and technology features. Look for a balance between power and fuel economy that suits your needs, as well as safety features like ABS brakes for added peace of mind.
- Brand Reputation and Reliability: Research the reputation of different motorcycle brands and models to ensure you’re investing in a reliable and reputable bike. Read reviews from owners and experts, and consider factors such as build quality, longevity, and the availability of spare parts and servicing.
- Test Ride: Finally, always take the bike for a test ride before making a purchase. This allows you to assess its comfort, handling, and overall feel on the road. Pay attention to how the bike accelerates, brakes, and corners, and make sure it feels intuitive and comfortable for you.
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Some of our top 125cc suggestion
Honda CB125R & Honda CB125F
Honda has a knack for infusing its smaller bikes with the essence of their larger counterparts, and both the CB125R & CB125F are a prime example of this philosophy. Over the years the Honda CB125R & Honda CB125F hves been known to be a successful and popular bike all over the world for first time riders. They are a comfortable bike to ride, which also gives riders good fuel economy and lasting performance. The bikes feel stable and solid with its nimble handing and maneuverability. The only think to consider when thinking about investing in buying a Honda CB125R or Honda CB125F is that its slightly soft engine performance may leave some riders wanting more power, especially on long highway rides.
Yamaha YS125 & Yamaha MT 125
Yamaha has long been a trusted name in the motorcycle world, and both the YS125 and MT 125 continues this tradition of excellence. These bikes are both designed as the ultimate budget commuter, they offers unbeatable value without compromising on quality. Along with all this the Yamaha YS125 and Yamaha MT 125 both have incredible fuel economy for cost effiecive riding. When considering if the Yamaha YS125 or Yamaha MT 125 is for you, it maybe worth taking into consideration that this bike has a modest engine output which may lack punch for some riders and also has a conservative engine and chassis specs compared to other brands.
Aprilia RX125
Aprilia’s RX125 combines Italian flair with off-road prowess, offering riders the best of both worlds. Sharing its mechanicals with the sporty RS 125, the RX125 boasts a liquid-cooled, four-valve, four-stroke single engine and a twin-spar frame for optimal performance and handling. The Aprilia RX125 bike does come at a higher end price compared to some of the other brands.
These are just a few examples of top 125cc bikes available in the market, each offering its own unique blend of style, performance, and features. For a comprehensive exploration of 125cc motorbikes, explore our motorbikes where you can browse our selection online or experience them firsthand at our showroom. Be sure to test ride a few models to find the one that best suits your preferences and riding needs.