125cc bikes can be the perfect starter bike for new riders, not least because you only need to have completed compulsory basic training (CBT) to ride them if you are a provisional licencee. However, the bikes are used by both new and experienced riders because they are easy to ride, suitable for a range of weather conditions and economical to ride.
Here is a list of some of the best 125cc motorcycles in terms of price, speed and insurance costs.
Affordable 125cc motorcycles
Cheap 125cc motorcycles are easiest to find if you choose to shop used. Brands like Honda, Suzuki and Kawasaki build their bikes to last and can be worth buying used. However, we understand that you may be looking for a brand new model without the hefty price tag to start your cycling adventure.
1.Lexmoto LXR

- Top speed: 68 mph
- Moment: 9,58 Nm
- Price: DKK 2,200
OfLexmoto LXR 125offering top speeds of up to 68 mph. Known as the 'flagship' of the range, the vehicle offers combined braking and a digital display for ultimate control. The double front disc brakes and monoshock rear suspension means that the bike can stop comfortably regardless of speed. The cooling system is specially designed to optimize performance, and with a fuel capacity of 13.5 liters and a four-stroke engine, the 125cc bike meets Euro 4 emission standards.
The sports model is inspired by the track and is available in three colours, meaning there's an LXR for everyone. The robot's lattice frame allows you to use the vehicle for many years to come.
2.Suzuki DR125SM
- Top speed: 65 mph
- Moment: 9,5 Nm
- Price: DKK 1,095 - DKK 2,295
The Suzuki DR125SM was produced between 2008-2012. When launched in 2009, this bike would have cost £2,599. It comes with a four-stroke engine and has a maximum output of 11 horsepower at 9,500 rpm.
As well as being cheap to run, the Supermoto is cheap to buy used and has had a range of colors over the years, including a sleek black and bright yellow option. The bike is quite large and suitable for different ages and abilities. Reliable and simple, this stylish four-stroke engine has managed to maintain a good reputation all year round.
3. HondaPCX125

- Top speed: 67 mph
- Koppel:11,8 Nm
- Price: DKK 3,599
OfPCX125, the best-selling 125cc in the UK in 2022, is powered by a liquid-cooled 4V engine that provides smooth acceleration while still delivering impressive fuel economy.
Smart, modern styling, wide tires, long-travel rear suspension, ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control provide a smart ride regardless of road conditions. The PCX125 also has practical features with under-seat storage for a full-face helmet.
Honda has an embarrassment of riches in the 125cc range and you should tooHonda CBF125Mof theHonda MSX125.
The fastest 125cc motorcycles
4.Suzuki GSX-R125

- Top speed: 72 mph+
- Moment: 11,5 Nm
- Price: DKK 3,899
Suzuki describes itGSX-R125as having the "best power-to-weight ratio, torque-to-weight ratio and acceleration." With a fuel capacity of 11 liters and a four-stroke engine, the engine offers an output of 11 kW. Six-speed gearbox and front and rear suspension give the rider ultimate control.
The engine has an efficient engine that allows high speeds and low fuel consumption. It also includes smart features such as the Suzuki Easy Start system and keyless entry. Combining modern technology and aerodynamics suited to the track, the bike is ideal for both new and experienced riders.
5. Yamaha YZF-R125

- Top speed: 75 mph+
- Moment: 11,5 Nm
- Price: DKK 4,674
Inspired by the Yamaha MotoGP motorcycleYZF-R125offers a sporty style for every day. Yamaha's Variable Valve Actuation system is present in the motorcycle's engine and optimizes torque, power and fuel efficiency. In addition, the 11 liter fuel tank can be easily removed for maintenance.
This 125cc two-passenger motorcycle offers sporty handling thanks to a low weight and rigid frame. Smooth acceleration makes for an exciting drive, especially when you can reach speeds of over 120 km/h. Easy handling enhances driving comfort in this vehicle, while an easy-to-read LCD screen gives you all the information you need at all times.
6. Honda CB125R

- Top speed: 75 mph
- Moment: 10Nm
- Price: DKK 3,989
Honda advertises this bike as an "early entry" for new riders, helping your confidence grow as you progress. ThatCB125Rhas a four-stroke engine with a maximum output of 9.8 kW at 10,000 rpm. With a 10.1 liter fuel tank, six-speed gearbox and a simple LCD display, the bike is designed with minimalism in mind.
The fuel tank fits seamlessly under the rider's knee and will power the bike for up to 300 miles. Flat handlebars give you control no matter where you ride. Reaching top speeds of 120 km/h, this stylish bike offers sleek looks and high speed.
7.KTM 125 hertog

- Top speed: 75 mph
- Moment: 12 Nm
- Price: DKK 3,499
With a six-speed gearbox that can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/hKTM 125 hertogis one of the fastest 125cc bikes on the market. It has a maximum output of 15 horsepower from the four-stroke engine - built with the same tuning as its larger counterparts, the engine has a lot to offer.
Available in three colors, all with bright orange features, the high-performance bike also looks good. The light frame provides a smooth ride, perfect forrush hour, which is part of life in the city. The 125 Duke offers safety and efficiency while guaranteeing an adrenaline-filled experience. It's great for both beginners and those with more experience on the go.
8.Kawasaki Ninja 125

- Top speed: 70 mph+
- Moment: 11,7 Nm
- Price: DKK 3,799
Part of the iconicNinjaseries, this fan-favorite bike is nimble and fast. With speeds in excess of 110 mph and 11.7 NM of torque, Kawasaki offers a great gateway bike for those who don't yetget their full license. With a frame similar to the Ninja H2 trellis and an 11 kW engine, the Ninja 125 engine has a 2019 and 2020 edition as well as the performance model.
The vehicle has a four-stroke engine, six-speed gearbox and 110 mm front wheel. It can be bought in a nice black, or alternatively with race-inspired green or white bodywork.
9.ApriliaRS 125

- Top speed: 160 km/h
- Performance: 15 hp
- Price: DKK 4,499
The classic bike was first released in 1995 and has been extensively upgraded over the past 25 years. Manufactured by the Italian Aprilia, theRS 125offers a six-speed gearbox that allows the bike to travel at speeds of up to 100 mph. The vehicle has a 14.5 liter fuel tank in the aluminum frame and meets Euro 4 standards.
The sports bike is specially designed with younger riders in mind. Using its racing experience, Aprilia has created a lightweight bike. The bike offers maneuverability and speed and is ideal for both road and track. The vehicle's aesthetic, which Aprilia describes as "a grown-up look for young riders", is heavily inspired by the sport.
10.Yamaha MT-125

- Top speed: 80 mph
- Moment: 11,5 Nm
- Price: DKK 4,524
OfYamaha MT-125The engine is equipped with the brand's VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) system, which has two intake cams, allowing a torque of 11.5 Nm. The assist and slipper allow the user to change gears easily and drive more smoothly. The engine also combines sporty handling and top speeds of 130 km/h to create a bike perfect for both city and back roads.
Easy to use and practical, this bike is perfect for any rider. Styled as the second larger capacity bike in the MT series, the 125 offers the same attitude for a smaller price tag.
11. KTM RC125

- Top speed: 75 mph
- Koppel:12 nm
- Price: DKK 5,000
The newKTM RC125features an all-new chassis, dramatic MotoGP-inspired styling and improved handling and ergonomics.Using the proven 15bhp, 125cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, the KTM benefits from revised engine characteristics, improved torque figures and a smoother power delivery.
Completely redesigned race-inspired bodywork provides excellent wind protection and increased top speed thanks to optimized aerodynamics created using Computational Flow Dynamics simulations.
12. Husqvarna Svartpilen 125

- Top speed: 75 mph
- Moment: 12 Nm
- Price: DKK 3,699
OfHusqvarna Svartpilen 125is a learner-friendly retro-style motorcycle powered by a liquid-cooled 125 cc single-cylinder engine that generates 14.8 horsepower at 9,500 rpm.
Husqvarna is part of the KTM group, which explains the recycled KTM Duke 125 engine, frame and WP suspension. The wire-spoke 17-inch wheels take a Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 110/70 at the front and a 150/60 at the rear.
How to make your 125cc bike insurance cheaper
You can find the cost ofinsure your 125cc motorcyclechanges depending on a number of variables such as the style of the bike, how it is stored, its safety features, the cost of repairs, how often you use it and how long you have ridden it. However, an older model can lower your premium because it has no new bike value.
Get a great deal on 125cc motorcycles with Bikesure
With so many great 125cc bikes on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. However, whatever you choose, make sure you get good insurance to keep the overall costs down. We are specialists ininsurance for 125cc vehiclesof all descriptions, call us on 0330 123 1028 for an affordable quote ororder a recall requestat a time that suits you.
Related articles
- Find out which driving license you need to cycle
- Read more about motorcycles with an A1 driving license
FAQs
12 of the best 125cc motorcycles? ›
The short answer is that the top speed of a 125cc, on average, is somewhere between 65mph and 80mph.
What's the fastest a 125cc bike can go? ›The short answer is that the top speed of a 125cc, on average, is somewhere between 65mph and 80mph.
Which is the most powerful single cylinder bike 125cc? ›The most powerful bike in the segment, the KTM 125 Duke, is powered by a 124.7cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine belting out 14.5PS and 12Nm.
Is 125cc better than 150cc? ›You can expect a 150cc moped to reach an advanced speed of roughly 70 mph, which is a little faster compared to the speed of a 100cc or 125cc one. In general, a moped with a 150cc engine is more powerful than those with smaller engines. It becomes even more suitable for long travels as well as routine commutes.
How long does a 125cc motorcycle last? ›Re: Life span in milage of a Honda 125cc
18,000-30,000 miles is the target for me when I buy second hand.
Up to 125cc motorcycles (A1 licence) - Honda CB125F | 138.7mpg. Although it can't quite match the economy of its CBF125 predecessor or live up to Honda's claims of 150mpg, Honda's latest CB, as introduced in 2021 with an even more efficient engine, is still the class-leader in terms of fuel efficiency.
Can a 125cc go 100 mph? ›The highest speed for 125cc dirt bikes ever recorded is 100 MPH. Nevertheless, do not expect such a huge number of regular riders; very few have mastered dirt riding skills! As a result, the top speed on most 125cc models fluctuates from 55 to 60 MPH (about 57,5 MPH on average).
Can 125cc go on highway? ›The law in California states that any motorcycle with 150cc displacement or more is legal to ride with a motorcycle license endorsement on the freeways. Different states have different rules about what you can use on the highways/freeway so make sure to check the state you're in.
Which bike is the king of single cylinder? ›The duke 390 is a great all around bike, but there are still a few things that are far from perfect. The first is the play in the throttle. Most of these smaller dukes have a bit of play in the throttle before it actually starts engaging the engine. ...
How fast can an unrestricted 125cc go? ›The short answer is that the top speed of a 125cc, on average, is somewhere between 65mph and 80mph.
How much HP does a 125cc motor make? ›
125cc Motorcycles:
They give you plenty of power without weighing you down on the road. Expect to get anywhere from 10 to 15 HP out of these bikes.
It can carry a weight of around 150 kg easily.
Does Harley Davidson make a 125cc motorcycle? ›Harley-Davidson built a 125cc two stroke starting in 1947. These bikes were popular for young riders. Contrary to Harley lore these were built right in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The yellow bumble bee at WTT was built by famed builder Mike Saunders from Ohio.
How fast is a Kawasaki Z125? ›The top speed on the Kawasaki Z125 Pro is around 63 or 64 MPH depending on wind direction, road conditions, and how much you had for lunch that day.
What is faster 50cc or 125cc? ›A 50cc engine is smaller in size and has a lower engine capacity compared to a 125cc engine. This means that a 50cc e-scooter will typically have a lower top speed and less power compared to a 125cc e-scooter.
Which engine is best as 110cc or 125cc? ›People on the scooter
If your answer is just one, then you can go for 110cc as you will find no discernible benefit in the bigger engine scooters. If, however, you do plan on going two up for most of the time, then you will enjoy the 125cc a lot more.
You can no difference between 110cc and 125cc. Both of them produce almost same power. only power changes in decimal.
What is high mileage for a 125cc? ›Generally, high mileage on a motorcycle is anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 miles.
How fast does a Yamaha 125cc go? ›The max speed of a 125cc dirt bike is typically between 55 and 60 mph. Since most riders haven't mastered the art of dirt riding yet, they won't reach these maximum speeds. At least one other person will be racing at a top speed of 100 mph.
How often should you change oil on 125cc motorcycle? ›While it's important to look at and monitor the scope of your motorcycle stats, we generally recommend changing out your oil every 5,000 miles or once a year. We can assure you that routine maintenance, check-ups, and oil changes will provide your motorcycle with a healthier, longer life.
How fast is a Kawasaki Ninja 125? ›
Ninja 125 Churns out 15 PS of maximum power at 10,000 RPM and 11.7 Nm of peak torque at 7,700 RPM. This sports bike can reach up to a top speed of 128 km/h. Frame & Suspension The Ninja 125 uses a tubular diamond steel trellis frame like the bigger Ninja 250.
How many miles per gallon does a 125cc bike do? ›125's do around 75-100+mpg.
Do any motorcycles get 100 mpg? ›Any of the Honda mini-motos are perfect for anyone who hasn't ridden before and wants a motorcycle simply to buzz around on to save money on gas. If you want a 'normal-size' motorcycle, then Honda also has the immortal Super Cub, which fuelly.com users have averaged out at just over 100 mpg.
Can a 125cc go uphill? ›Having said that a 125cc machine should be able to get up most inclines, even if you have to use the lower gears (assuming you're not after a scooter).
How fast does 125cc 3 speed go? ›125cc karts can go up to 87mph (that's 140 km/h!). Most 125cc go-karts can reach a top speed of 70-80mph.
What are 125cc bikes restricted to? ›A1 licence (allowing you to ride a 125cc bike) if you are 17 or over. A2 licence (limiting you to a maximum bhp of 47) if you are 19 and over.
Can 2 people ride on a 125cc? ›Of course. With few exceptions, (the new Honda Monkey, for instance - Überblick - Monkey - 125cm³ - Modellpalette - Motorräder - Honda in German, but hey, you get the picture), 125cc motorbike are have seats for two, passenger pegs and are perfectly capable of carrying two people.
What is the best cc for a motorcycle? ›You can get anything from a 125cc (cubic centimeter) engine to something more than 2,000cc. For beginner motorcycle riders, the recommended engine is 500cc to 600cc. The lower the cc figure, the easier the bike will handle, and the more forgiving it will be to the inevitable mistakes that new riders make.
What bike is called the Widowmaker? ›The original Kawasaki H2 aka The Widow Maker.
What is the No 1 fastest bike in the world? ›What is the #1 fastest bike in the world? The turbine-powered MTT 420-RR is currently the fastest bike in the world with a top speed of 273 mph (439 km/h). Check our list of the fastest bikes in the world to see the full ranking.
What was the best 125 of the 90s? ›
The 1997 CR 125 was the best 125 of the decade. It turned aweful in 1998 and never recovered. For the 250 class, the '97 and '98 KX250 were arguably the best bikes in this era. The '97 was an amazing bike for moto, and the only real difference for '98 was the power jet carb and factory inspired graphics.
Is 125 cc powerful? ›Having a 125cc street bike may not have much horsepower, but with a clutch and gearbox, you have more control over what you have. You have much more control of your bike which can translate into getting out of someone's way faster or merging into traffic more confidently than you would with a much stronger bike.
Which bike is best in 125cc sector? ›- Hero Pleasure + Xtec. 3.6/5. 31 Ratings. ...
- Hero Destini 125 Xtec. 4/5. 18 Ratings. ...
- Hero Maestro Edge 110. 3.9/5. 949 Ratings. ...
- Aprilia SR 125. 4.4/5. 87 Ratings. ...
- Vespa ZX 125. 4.3/5. 28 Ratings. ...
- Vespa VXL 125. 3.5/5. 107 Ratings. ...
- Vespa SXL 125. 4/5. 89 Ratings. ...
- Aprilia SXR 125. 3.9/5. 18 Ratings. 124.45 cc|9.48 bhp.
The Honda SP 125 is among the best 125cc motorcycles launched by Honda. The bike features great for and finish, premium features like LED headlights, ACG starter, and a powerful BS6-compliant engine. The 124cc single-cylinder fuel-injected unit churns out 10.8PS of power mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
Which is the top model bike of Honda 125 cc? ›The Honda SP 125 is a motorcycle that comes with a price tag ranging between Rs.85,131 to Rs. 89,131.It is available in 2 variants and 5 colours.SP 125 is powered by a 123.94 cc bs6 engine. It has Drum front brakes and Drum rear brakes.SP 125 weigths 116 kg and has a fuel tank capacity of 11.2 L.
What 125cc has the best fuel economy? ›Up to 125cc motorcycles (A1 licence) - Honda CB125F | 138.7mpg. Although it can't quite match the economy of its CBF125 predecessor or live up to Honda's claims of 150mpg, Honda's latest CB, as introduced in 2021 with an even more efficient engine, is still the class-leader in terms of fuel efficiency.
What is high mileage for a 125cc bike? ›Generally, high mileage on a motorcycle is anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 miles.
What is the most reliable Honda motor? ›The Honda K20 and K24 are some of the most reliable engines ever built. They come in vehicles from 2000 to around 2015, like the Civic, Acord, Acura, and more. The K20 (i-VTEC) is an inline 4-cylinder, 2L engine making - depending on other components - making 150-221 HP/131-151 lb-ft.
Is it worth it to buy a Honda SP 125? ›Excellent performance. Low maintenance and mileage is also good. Very comfortable bike for middle class family. Bike is working very good.
When did Honda stop making 125? ›The Honda CG125 or Honda CG is a commuter motorcycle made by Honda of Japan. It was in production from 1976 to 2008 in Japan and has been in production since 1992 in Pakistan.
How many miles per gallon does a Honda cb125 get? ›
It's never the sexiest of details to discuss when writing about a motorcycle, but with what is essentially a commuter machine, fuel economy from the 10-litre Honda looks to be excellent. Honda claim a real-world range of 300 miles and test have regularly returned a figure of 90 mpg.
What is the price of Honda 125cc top model? ›Honda Activa 125 is a scooter available in 4 variants and 6 colours. Activa 125 price starts at Rs. 81,142 in India with top variant price starting from Rs. 90,332.
How fast does a cb125 go? ›Electrics are 12 volt with capacitor discharge electronic ignition and the machine is electric start only. Top speed with a single rider is approximately 100 km/h (62 mph).
Does Yamaha make a 125cc motorcycle? ›XSR125 - motorcycles - Yamaha Motor.
Do Kawasaki make 125cc bikes? ›Small in size but big on fun, the Kawasaki Z125 PRO motorcycle is a nimble streetfighter that makes a statement wherever it goes.
How powerful is a 125cc motorcycle? ›A1 bikes can be up to 125cc and 11kw/15bhp (as long as the power/weight ratio is no more than 0.1kw/kg), are often capable of around 70mph and as such, although targeted at novices, can also include the whole gamut of 'big bike' motorcycling features such as six-speed transmissions, proper brakes and suspension not to ...