Table of contents
- Second-hand advice 125 class 125cc: the high starters
- Aprilia RS 125
- Honda CBR 125 R.
- MZ 125 SM / SX
- Yamaha XV 125 Virago
- Purchase check – eight points that you should definitely pay attention to
- Private or dealer – good or cheap
- Standpunkt – Take off by yourself!
- Ancillary costs – whatever else is incurred
- Alternatives
Artist
counselor
Used purchase
Second-hand advice 125 class
Second-hand advice 125 class
125cc: the high starters
Every beginning is actually not difficult at all. In the 125cc class, the second-hand market offers the best opportunities to saddle up immediately, even with a very limited budget. Top toys are available from 1000 euros.
Thorsten Dentges
07/31/2008
Driving at the age of 17 ?? this has been possible in the whole of Germany since the beginning of 2008. Since then, dealers and driving instructors have reported a noticeable decline in interest in 125s. Amazing, because driving is only allowed if accompanied by strict conditions. So the young people have not gained their own mobility. Concerned parents, however, have one more argument against the motorcycle. The 125cc class in particular is a very interesting class, not just for the youngsters. There is a huge selection of really good used machines that can be moved extremely economically and foolproof. For commuters and city dwellers, it is worth considering switching from expensive cars. Regardless of whether it’s a two-stroke hot spur, an inexpensive four-stroke long-runner, a lively supermoto or a relaxed chopper? the 125cc class is just the thing for getting off to a good start.
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Aprilia RS 125
Never wants to grow up: Aprilia RS 125.
Just as the Italians understand that the coffee tastes a little better, the suit fits perfectly and the shoes have a touch more style, they also manage to give their motorcycles a lot more emotion. After all, one likes to dream about hot-blooded overtaking maneuvers or winning poses at the finish line. Aprilias RS 125 comes straight from the racetrack, exudes a lot of Grand Prix esprit with its fine aluminum chassis, lush upside-down fork and huge brake discs. Unrestricted up to 30 HP power, so that even after purchasing the “huge” Driving license live very well, so the Aprilia not only has a home in the light motorcycle scene.
In any case, the exclusive and extremely expensive (over 5000 euros) two-stroke 125cc is well represented on the market. Since 1992, the machine has encouraged masses of young beginners to saddle up just because of its highly sporty appearance. Driving – heating at full throttle as befits your status – also triggers high feelings, because hardly any other 125cc offers so much potential to exhaust your driving skills. In general, the RS is considered to be solid and of high quality, but the spirited racing engine literally eats your hair off your head compared to a good four-stroke engine. After the intoxication comes the hangover: Full-throttle stages are acknowledged with a fuel consumption of up to eight liters per 100 kilometers plus oil. Pistons, cylinders and seals should be checked every few thousand kilometers and often replaced. A major engine overhaul including replacement of the crankshaft bearings (around 1,000 euros) is due at the latest after 24,000 kilometers. The coins just rumble out of the wallet. Well, if you want great love, you shouldn’t be kinky.
plus
High quality
Stable chassis with a generously dimensioned aluminum frame
Emotional factor high
minus
Used prices tend to be overpriced
Ancillary costs make a big difference
Consumption up to eight liters / 100 km
Market situation
The second-hand market for the RS is huge. Usually a large number of previous owners drove the machines (and unfortunately often maltreated them too). Good offers of well-kept specimens that are regularly maintained by professionals are very manageable. As a rule of thumb, almost only scrap is offered for less than 1000 euros, up to 2000 euros there are isolated dealer offers as well as decent private offers (from year of construction 2000, less than 10,000 kilometers) with checkbooks, over 3000 euros it’s difficult to get a used RS.
Technical specifications (Year of construction 2005)
Water-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke engine, 125 cm³, 21 kW (29 PS) at 10500 / min, weight 141 kg, load 176 kg, tank capacity / reserve 14 / 3.5 liters, seat height 815 mm, top speed 155 km / h, consumption 4, 3 l super / 100 km, 0.5 l oil / 1000 km
Internet
Fansites: www.aprilia-forum.de, www.youngbiker.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder
Honda CBR 125 R.
Best seller with a high fun factor: Honda CBR 125 R.
There is a lot to complain about. The 125cc CBR isn’t just small, it’s puny. Anorexic with bone-thin tires, a 100 in the back, that’s a joke. In addition, the Honda is quite ordinary, apart from a colorful replica race fairing, they haven’t come up with much to make the 125 look sexy in any way. Under the dress: predominantly conventional technology, just as you would expect from a cheap van made in and for Asia, but not from a proud athlete with the name “CBR”. You could go on nagging about tight spaces, boring sound. Which is simply inappropriate, because over 18,000 have been sold since 2004 CBR 125 R in Germany alone paint a different picture.
And you just have to say: This super bestseller suits everyone, spreads a lot of good mood and can do a lot more than you think the little ones are capable of. The very economical four-stroke single-cylinder with a little over 13 hp pushes stoically forward, and in tight bends, the 124 kilogram lightweight Honda can easily outrun stronger competitors with its superb handling. The admittedly much too narrow tires can easily be replaced by approval with significantly larger tires (for example Bridgestone BT 45, front 100/80, rear 120/80). There is nothing to complain about about the quality of the simple add-on parts, they serve their purpose and are inexpensive to purchase. With proper care, the chain usually lasts 15,000 kilometers and costs around 90 euros, a broken clutch lever costs less than 20 euros. Workshops swear by the reliability of the 125cc – there is talk of over 50,000 kilometers without major engine overhauls. Even the slightly more powerful and slightly more expensive injection model, which was revised in 2007, has not suffered any damage. So: the bottom line is that the CBR 125 R is a carefree motorcycle. Buy!
plus
Very low consumption, less than three liters / 100 km
First class handling due to its low weight
Used prices cheap and fair
minus
Space is a bit cramped for drivers from 1.80 meters
Tire dimensions very narrow, not up to date
Market situation
The 125 bestseller is also very well represented on the used market. At dealers, 2004/2005 models with around 15,000 kilometers from 1200 euros are offered, unreservedly recommended models with less than 10,000 kilometers can be found in the price range 1500 to 1800 euros, from 2000 euros there are new machines that are no more than two years old – the Injection models from 2007 onwards are not in greater demand. Private providers can hardly keep up without extreme price dumping.
Technical specifications
Water-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, 125 cm³, 9.7 kW (13.2 PS) at 10,000 rpm, weight 124 kg, load 180 kg, tank capacity 10 liters, seat height 790 mm, top speed 110 km / h, consumption (country road) 3 l / 100 km normal
Internet
Fansites: www.cbr125-forum.de, www.youngbiker.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder
MZ 125 SM / SX
MZ
Beautiful, but by no means flawless: MZ 125 SM / SX.
It’s about the style. Not only in young extreme sports such as snowboarding or skating, but also on a motorcycle. Supermotos offer the best basis for fine-tuning your style. And the SM is – although “only” a 15 hp 125cc – a full-fledged supermoto, which seduces you to unbelievable lean angles and drifts with a great chassis, wide handlebars and upright seating position, but is not overwhelmed by modern four-stroke culture. Something like that is well received, and with this model the Saxon manufacturer, who was not necessarily spoiled with success, landed a coup in 2001. The equally popular enduro sister 125 SX only differs in terms of its soles (21 inches at the front, 18 inches at the rear instead of 17 inches on the SM). Both models seem somehow more mature than most of their classmates and are reliable buddies. Fresh, sporty, equally stable and economical – that is the formula for winning over young beginners and older 125cc enthusiasts.
In any case, the two Hochbeiners are in great demand and easy to get hold of on the 125cc second-hand market due to the large number of new machines that have been sold. If you have a good offer, you have to grab it, because despite the MZ bankruptcy, the supply of spare parts is secured for many years. But please note a few things before buying, especially from private! The timing chain, which should be checked every 6,000 kilometers, hits the engine housing if it is too elongated and can cause expensive damage. Ditto the secondary chain. The original equipment is so bad that it barely lasts 3,000 kilometers. It is better to replace it with a quality part from the aftermarket at an early stage, before the worn chain gnaws at the aluminum swing arm and leaves nasty nicks. Aluminum rims that bloom from corrosion indicate less well-cared-for outside people and winter operation. Just an appearance, but the machine has to look good – and not just because of the style.
plus
Engine brilliant for a light motorcycle
Chassis top notch, suitable for beginners and advanced users
Ergonomics also comfortable for drivers over 1.85 meters
minus
Timing chain is vulnerable
Seat too narrow and softly padded
Plastic parts in copies up to 2002 partly quality defects
Market situation
Private providers are in the majority, and their price demands start at 1200 euros. However, such cheap offers are hardly to be recommended – too many signs of use and defects call for follow-up costs. The dealer who has a warranty obligation rarely goes below 2000 euros, but the upper limit is 2500 euros, and the buyer can expect a complete checkbook for this. The mileage is usually well below 20,000 kilometers, recommended used vehicles are rarely more than five years old.
Technical specifications (Built in 2003)
Water-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, 124 cm3, 11 kW (15 PS) at 9000 / min, weight 130 kg, load 190 kg, tank capacity / reserve 12.5 / 3.6 liters, seat height 830 mm, top speed 108 km / h, consumption (Country road) 3.4 l / 100 km normal
Internet
Fansites: www.mz-forum.de, www.youngbiker.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder
Yamaha XV 125 Virago
The small 125cc Virago is a dusty chopper. In the recent past, i.e. at a time when resource scarcity and increased energy prices are a big issue, the XV 125 seems to be shaking off the dust layer again. In the truest sense of the word, because workshops report that older owners visit more frequently, who are sent for a general check-up after years of inactivity.
After minor maintenance work, the rock-solid and completely unproblematic Virago is usually ready to go again. As an inexpensive, well-made city vehicle or commuter mobile, the mini-chopper with a comfortable seat that is also suitable for small adults and a low fuel thirst is extremely contemporary. When it was launched in 1997, there were of course other values: sparkling chrome, as the first four-stroke 125cc on the market, it should bring as many young people as possible, as well as late-comers, to the classy chopper track. It completed the very successful Virago series, the mid-range model XV 535 of which still tops the inventory of the Federal Motor Transport Authority. The smallest Virago also became a bestseller in its class, but was finally replaced by the Cruiser Drag Star 125 in 2003. The range of very inexpensive and good machines is currently large. That should also please the generally low-budgeted youth, although the driving dynamics and performance are not necessarily convincing. Full throttle pilots naturally turn up their noses. But there seem to be enough cool, calculating young bikers who add up the purchase and maintenance and then give the XV 125 the go-ahead. Maybe they are ahead of their time.
plus
Seat and chassis very comfortable and comfortable
Vau-Zwo reliable, economical
Brakes well
minus
Performance low, a bit weak
Sound whispering, not very convincing
Look old-fashioned
Market situation
The smallest Virago is offered quite often used, dealer and private offers are balanced. Ordinary offers that are around ten years old and have less than 30,000 kilometers on the clock start for less than 1,000 euros. Flawlessly cared for and serviced XV 125 with less than 10,000 kilometers can be found for 1500 euros. In this price range, the selection is so large that providers hardly have a chance of finding an interested party or even a buyer with announcements over 2000 euros.
Technical specifications (Year of construction 1999)
Air-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke V-engine, 124 cm3, 7.6 kW (10 HP) at 8500 rpm, weight 153 kg, load 177 kg, tank capacity / reserve 9.5 / 2.6 liters, seat height 815 mm, top speed 96 km / h, consumption (country road) 3.3 l / 100 km normal
Internet
Fansites: www.125er-forum.de, www.youngbiker.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder
Purchase check – eight points that you should definitely pay attention to
1) Check for damage caused by falling, falling over or other damage (e.g. from being chained to lanterns).
2) Check wearing parts: Various add-on parts such as chain sets, instruments, cables or fittings are not of particularly high quality ex works for reasons of cost; negligent care can result in consequential damage.
3) After inexperienced tuning attempts and look for conversions without an operating permit. In particular, inspect the exhaust: Illegal racing bags are very popular.
4) Be careful if the external appearance and the odometer reading do not match: The speedometer is often turned on 125 cc!
5) Take into account not only the purchase price, but also the follow-up costs, especially consumption (two-stroke) and spare part costs (especially for DIY store 125s and Chinese no-name products), otherwise it can be expensive later.
6) Younger clientele is unfortunately often insensitive in handling the engine and neglects careful warming up, especially with the four-stroke engines. Since full throttle is almost always driven, there is generally high mechanical stress on the clutch and engine, especially with throttle versions. Therefore, it is better to look for unthrottled 125s from older drivers and to reduce them afterwards.
7) Rims are often deformed due to rough contact with the curb. Wire spokes can loosen.
8) Very high depreciation for models that are not in demand.
Private or dealer – good or cheap
If they are driven hot, they’re hot irons: 125cc. Most dealers therefore prefer to keep their hands off it, after all they have to grant a year (if not specifically stated in the sales contract, it is even two years) for the technically perfect condition at the time of sale. Since they often have to pep up badly battered specimens first, their offers are somewhat more expensive. But only at first glance, because if things go bad, such costs can also arise with supposed private bargains. For example, for a new clutch, fresh brake pads, new tires or a quality chain set with installation for 150 to 200 euros. And a major inspection with an engine check costs at least 200 euros. Hence the recommendation: if possible, buy from the dealer. From a private perspective, it is interesting if the previous owner and machine are well known, if the buyer is an accomplished screwdriver or if the offer is well below 1500 euros, leaving money for any repairs.
Standpunkt – Take off by yourself!
Back then, remember, those cool mopeds? Only 80 cubic meters, but endless fun and we’ll go anywhere. To the disco with the nice bee, Steffi ?? or what was her name? And it was really cheap … Stop, stop! Driving light motorcycles has never been cheap and is no more expensive today. A look back shows: In 1988 there were new machines in Germany from the equivalent of 1800 euros, the selection of 22 models was rather poor. Ten years later there were around 65 models between 2000 and 5000 euros. Nowadays, despite the sharp rise in prices on all sides, around 75 light motorcycles are on offer, new from 1500 euros. And when it comes to used vehicles, the variety of good offers is significantly greater than it was 20 years ago. In contrast to the gherkins of yore, young 125 cc models have modern four-stroke engines, good brakes and stable chassis that are not only convincing for beginners. Dear youngsters, let us tell you old folks: not everything was better back then. And: get started yourself! Or do you prefer to be driven to the disco by mom?
Ancillary costs – whatever else is incurred
Vacation job mastered, machine finally in the barn ?? but how many euros do 125cc pilots have to take into their hands afterwards? For motor vehicle insurance: Light motorcycles suitable for A1 driving licenses, throttled to 80 km / h, cost around EUR 800 per year in the partially comprehensive insurance with a deductible of 150 euros (recommended) with a starter no-claims discount (SF 0). Tip: Young drivers can have the contract in damage class SF ½ run on one parent ?? the partial coverage is then around 500 euros per year. An unthrottled 125cc (only with a “big” driver’s license from 18 years of age) only costs around 80 euros after two years of damage-free coverage under partial coverage. Fortunately, light motorcycles are exempt from vehicle tax; registered as a 125cc motorcycle, the amount is at the level of an order pizza: 9.20 euros per year. It gets significantly more expensive for a driver’s license.
According to the Federal Association of Driving Instructors’ Associations (BVF), young drivers have to shell out between 900 and 1400 euros for the A1 driving license, depending on the region and driving ability. After these expenses, young beginners often save on safety equipment. Fatal, and according to the legislator, only a helmet is required, which is available at the discounter for as little as 30 euros. A full set of equipment that is recommended with a clear conscience, however, consists of sturdy leather boots (from 70 euros), a textile suit with a waterproof climate membrane (inexpensive house brand or discounted, possibly also second-hand branded goods from 300 euros), reliable gloves (waterproof, Velcro strap, from 30 euros) and a trustworthy helmet with a good fit, ventilation and operation, which you should definitely purchase as new (from 100 euros acceptable offers). So make at least 500 euros for the clothes. In addition to purchasing the machine, you need a total of around 2000 euros in the first year to get started, and around 400 euros in the following year plus fuel, maintenance and any repair costs. For older motorcyclists, the solid four-stroke 125s (not throttled) turn out to be real savings boxes, not least because of the low fuel consumption of sometimes less than three liters.
Alternatives
High consumption plus the equivalent of a shot glass of expensive oil per liter of gasoline? Two-stroke engines are actually no longer in keeping with the times. Pistons and cylinders often die early, depending on the model, modern 125cc four-stroke engines are much better off overall. On the other hand, the simple two-stroke technology encourages do-it-yourselfers, and skilled home screwdrivers can save expensive workshop costs. Many models are also very cheap to get used. And: Poisonous vigor and sonorous rang-tang are good form for the enthusiast when he flies past clumsy four-stroke engines. So two-stroke engines still have their raison d’etre.
Two-stroke:
Cagiva Mito
Pretty, super sporty, on the market for almost twenty years ?? but the Mito is a very fragile and correspondingly expensive motorcycle. Only for real fans.
Honda NSR 125
Like the Mito, a poisonous full athlete, but more reliable. The used offer is quite good, reasonable dealer offers start at 1500 euros.
Yamaha DT 125 R
There are plenty of second-hand offers. And there are many cheap and good offers among them. The proven DT is straightforward and reliable.
Yamaha TDR 125
Accelerate, got ?? Fun! This solid and recommended fun bike gives motorcycle beginners a great start. Still affordable, great value.
Kawasaki KMX 125
Little Gernecross ?? with a sporty chassis and powerful engine, available for little money. Thin range of well-kept vehicles.
Sachs XTC 2T
Homeland associations with a penchant for the exclusive and screwdriver talent do well with the German Sachs: sexy tubular space frame, sporty appearance, strong brakes.
Four-stroke:
Daelim Roadwin
Pleasant conventional from Korea ?? no reputation, but cheap to buy (copies from 2004 with few kilometers already around 1000 euros).
Honda Varadero 125
As an expensive new vehicle for youngsters hardly affordable, used the very grown-up and extremely stable Honda is a real recommendation.
Kawasaki Eliminator 125
Inexpensive, but not a windy cheap number. For perfectly maintained copies with a checkbook, you rarely pay more than 1500 euros.
MZ RT 125
Modern, extremely reliable engine, extremely economical in consumption, great chassis. An absolutely recommendable motorcycle at fair used prices.
Suzuki DR 125
Very passable offers for around 1000 euros. Off-roaders get a good alternative to two-stroke enduro bikes with the inexpensive and economical DR.
Suzuki VL 125 Intruder
Decent space, even for tall drivers from 1.85 meters. A little cumbersome, but ideal for stress-free cruising.
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