17 Recommended 125cc MT Motorcycles! Advantages and Disadvantages of These Small-Yet-Serious Bikes

What is a 125cc MT (Manual Transmission) Motorcycle?

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/products/motorcycles/sport-heritage/xsr125/

A 125cc MT motorcycle is a manual transmission (MT) motorcycle classified as a small motorcycle (engine displacement under 125cc). The transmissions typically installed are 4-speed or 5-speed, depending on the motorcycle.

To ride a 125cc MT motorcycle, you need a small-restricted ordinary motorcycle license (small-class license) or higher.

To obtain a small-class license, you must either take lessons at a driving school or pass a single-shot exam at a licensing center. Driving schools also offer short-term intensive training camps.

Models equipped like larger motorcycles

In recent years, some 125cc MT motorcycles come with equipment comparable to that of larger motorcycles.

Models like Honda's GROM and CB125R incorporate features found on mid-size and large motorcycles, such as inverted front forks, front and rear disc brakes, and ABS. Many also feature 17-inch front and rear wheels, and their body sizes are comparable to 250cc models, giving them a commanding presence.

Enjoyable shifting

125cc MT motorcycles have less engine power compared to higher classes like 250cc.

This results in more frequent shifting, making the shifting operation more enjoyable.

Many models also feature 4-speed or 5-speed transmissions instead of the 6-speed found on mid-size and large motorcycles, making them safe for beginner riders.

The appeal of 125cc MT motorcycles

Source: https://www1.suzuki.co.jp/motor/lineup/gsxr125am1/?page=detail

125cc MT motorcycles offer many attractions.

We will introduce these attractions, so please refer to them if you are considering purchasing a 125cc motorcycle.

Easy to ride anywhere

One of the appeals of a 125cc MT motorcycle is its ease of riding, without the need to be as cautious as with a large motorcycle.

They can be ridden casually in any scenario, whether for daily commutes to work or school, or for weekend trips to favorite spots.

The ability to ride anywhere without fuss is one of the major attractions of 125cc MT motorcycles.

Easy to maneuver and safe for beginners

125cc MT motorcycles are lighter than 250cc class motorcycles, making them easier to handle.

They are easy to push even when dismounted, allowing women and beginner riders to handle them with confidence, making ease of maneuvering another advantage of 125cc MT motorcycles.

Can use family bike special rider

Automobile voluntary insurance includes a family bike special rider, and 125cc MT motorcycles can be insured under this, which can significantly reduce voluntary insurance premiums.

The eligibility condition is an engine displacement of 125cc or less, and since 125cc MT motorcycles typically have displacements of 124cc or less, they are eligible for coverage.

If you own a car, adding a family bike special rider to your voluntary car insurance can lower your overall insurance costs, which is another attractive point of 125cc MT motorcycles.

No automobile weight tax and low insurance premiums

125cc class motorcycles are exempt from automobile weight tax.

Additionally, compulsory insurance premiums are low, at 7,500 yen per year, the same as 50cc mopeds.

The absence of weight tax and low insurance premiums make them budget-friendly.

Advantages of 125cc MT motorcycles

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/z125pro/

Next, let's look at the advantages of riding a 125cc MT motorcycle.

Key advantages include:

Extremely low running costs
Compact body is easy to maneuver
Low new bike prices
Good fuel economy
Can be covered by car insurance (family bike special rider)

Let's examine each of these in detail.

Extremely low running costs

125cc class motorcycles have low running costs.

They are exempt from automobile weight tax, and compulsory insurance premiums are low at 7,500 yen per year, the same as 50cc mopeds, resulting in low statutory fees. Compared to the 250cc class, they also have better fuel economy, making low running costs a significant advantage.

Small body is easy to maneuver

Many 125cc MT motorcycles are easy to maneuver due to their compact body.

There are many models with body sizes that are neither too small nor too large, making them easy for everyone from women to beginners to handle, both when riding and when pushing them.

Low new bike prices

Another advantage of 125cc MT motorcycles is their low new bike prices.

New bike prices start from around 300,000 yen, with some models being half the price of 250cc class bikes, allowing you to save on initial purchase costs.

With low new bike prices and low maintenance costs like insurance, 125cc MT motorcycles are a budget-friendly option.

Good fuel economy

Good fuel economy is another advantage of 125cc MT motorcycles.

Comparing 125cc and 250cc classes, the Honda CB125R has a claimed fuel economy (WMTC mode value) of 46.8 km/L, while the 250cc class CB250R is 33.7 km/L, showing significantly better fuel economy for the 125cc class.

The CB400SF (400cc class), often used as a training bike for ordinary motorcycle licenses, gets 21.2 km/L, meaning the 125cc class has more than double the fuel efficiency of the 400cc class.

Due to its good fuel economy, you will greatly benefit from it when using the bike for daily commuting.

Can be covered by car insurance

125cc MT motorcycles can be covered by the family bike special rider of automobile car insurance.

The family bike special rider is available for motorcycles with an engine displacement of 125cc or less, and since 125cc class motorcycles are eligible, joining this rider can significantly reduce voluntary insurance premiums.

Disadvantages of 125cc MT motorcycles

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/89-1953342/

Now that we've covered the advantages of 125cc MT motorcycles, let's look at their disadvantages.

The main disadvantages are:

Requires a small automatic two-wheeled vehicle license or higher
Limited number of used vehicles
Some roads, like expressways, cannot be ridden on
Slightly underpowered on hills

Let's look at each of these.

Requires a small automatic two-wheeled vehicle license or higher

To ride a 125cc MT motorcycle (Class 2 moped), you need a small automatic two-wheeled vehicle license or higher (either a small automatic two-wheeled vehicle, ordinary automatic two-wheeled vehicle, or large automatic two-wheeled vehicle license).

While you can ride a 50cc moped with an ordinary car license, obtaining a separate license is mandatory for the 125cc class.

The requirement for a small automatic two-wheeled vehicle license or higher is a disadvantage, as it means it's not as easy to ride as a moped.

Limited number of used vehicles

Compared to 250cc and 400cc class (mid-size motorcycles), there are fewer used 125cc MT motorcycles available.

While 125cc bikes are popular in Europe and globally, they are not as in demand in Japan as mid-size motorcycles.

Therefore, the limited number of used bikes and narrow range of choices is also a disadvantage.

Some roads, like expressways, cannot be ridden on

To ride on expressways, an engine displacement exceeding 125cc is required, so 125cc MT motorcycles cannot be ridden on them.

The fact that there are certain roads, such as expressways and exclusive automobile roads, where they cannot be ridden can be considered a disadvantage.

Slightly underpowered on hills

Since 125cc MT motorcycles have a maximum engine output of around 15ps, they may feel a bit underpowered on hills.

Especially when riding with two people on a slope, the lack of power is undeniable.

Feeling a slight power shortage on hills is also a disadvantage of 125cc MT motorcycles.

17 recommended 125cc MT motorcycles

We will introduce 17 recommended 125cc MT motorcycle models.

This includes models sold domestically, models only available through grey imports, and models from overseas manufacturers.

As of July 2021, we have listed 10 models that can be bought new in Japan and 7 models that can be bought used. Please refer to this list when choosing your 125cc MT motorcycle.

1. Honda GROM

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/GROM/type/

The Honda GROM is a 125cc motorcycle with a compact body and extensive features, unveiled in 2013.

Produced in Thailand, it combines an air-cooled single-cylinder engine, shared with the Super Cub, with a 4-speed manual transmission (2013-2020 models).

Its features are comprehensive, much like a large motorcycle, including inverted front forks, front and rear disc brakes, and 12-inch wide wheels.

With a minor change in 2020 for the 2021 model, the transmission was upgraded from a 4-speed to a 5-speed, and ABS became standard on the front, further enhancing its features.

Due to its body size, it is very easy to handle, making it a 125cc MT motorcycle that anyone can ride easily.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 9.8ps
Maximum torque: 11N・m
Vehicle weight: 104kg
New vehicle sales price: 385,000 yen

2. Yamaha FAZER125

Source: https://www.webike.net/bike/13817/service/

The Yamaha FAZER 125 is a lightweight 125cc MT motorcycle, weighing 125kg, which is light for its class.

The air-cooled single-cylinder engine produces a maximum output of 10.6ps and is equipped with a 5-speed transmission, allowing for a smooth ride thanks to its lightweight body.

It can be purchased new for around 300,000 yen, making it accessible for first-time riders.

Its lightweight nature makes it easy to handle, so even women can ride it with confidence.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 10.6ps
Maximum torque: 10.8N・m
Vehicle weight: 127kg
Used market price: around 230,000 to 300,000 yen

3. Suzuki GSX-R125

Source: https://www1.suzuki.co.jp/motor/lineup/gsxr125am1/?page=style

Suzuki's GSX-R125 is a full-fledged full-fairing sports motorcycle that went on sale in 2017.

Originally offered as an entry-level sports model for those with a 125cc or smaller license in Europe, the "GSX-R125 ABS" with ABS became available in Japan starting in 2018.

In terms of performance, it comes standard with 17-inch front and rear wheels, ABS, and a link-type monoshock rear suspension. Other features include a highly visible multi-function LCD meter panel and LED headlights, making it well-equipped.

With a dignified body that belies its 125cc displacement, it's a machine that offers smooth acceleration and natural handling.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 15ps
Maximum torque: 11N・m
Vehicle weight: 134kg
New vehicle sales price: 415,800 yen

4. Suzuki GSX-S125

Source: https://www1.suzuki.co.jp/motor/lineup/gsxs125am1/?page=style

The Suzuki "GSX-S125 ABS" was released in Japan in 2017 as the naked version of the GSX-R125.

Originally, like the GSX-R125, it was a sports riding entry-level model for licensed riders, sold in Europe first.

Since it uses the same platform as the GSX-R125, the equipment is also the same, excluding the fairings.

The 15ps liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers smooth acceleration, offering an enjoyable ride even at high RPMs.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 15ps
Maximum torque: 11N・m
Vehicle weight: 133kg
New vehicle sales price: 382,800 yen

5. Honda CB125R

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CB125R/type/

Honda's CB125R was introduced in 2018 as an entry-level model for the CB series.

Equipped with a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 13ps, it boasts serious features such as inverted front forks, 17-inch front and rear wheels, and a gull-arm swingarm.

It also features ABS with an inertial measurement unit that detects the vehicle's attitude while driving, preventing the rear wheel from lifting during sudden braking, among other things, and comes standard with a high-performance ABS for its class.

The model released in April 2021 saw an increase in engine output to 15ps and a change to SHOWA inverted front forks, among other improvements in performance.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 13ps
Maximum torque: 10N・m
Vehicle weight: 127kg
New vehicle sales price: 473,000 yen

6. Yamaha XTZ125

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/2/85_4/

Yamaha's XTZ125 is an off-road model originally sold overseas.

Although it was once handled by Yamaha dealerships as a grey import, it has never been officially sold as a domestic model in Japan.

Despite being a 125cc, it is a full-size off-road model equipped with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels.

It features an air-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder SOHC engine producing 13ps, combined with a 5-speed transmission.

Despite being full-size, the seat height is a relatively low 840mm, making it easy to ride even for off-road beginners.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 13ps
Maximum torque: 11.6N・m
Vehicle weight: 114kg
Used market price: around 340,000 to 380,000 yen

7. Honda CBR125R

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CBR125R/

The CBR125R is a 125cc MT motorcycle by Honda that offers serious sports riding fun, launched in Japan in 2013.

It was sold in Europe from 2004, and while it was a full-fairing model at its debut, the 2011 model change gave it a distinctive design with fairings extending from the front to the bottom.

Its equipment is serious, featuring inverted front forks, front and rear disc brakes, 17-inch front and rear wheels, and LED headlights, giving it a luxurious feel like a higher-class model.

Although it was discontinued in Japan after the 2014 model, sales continued in Europe.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 13ps
Maximum torque: 10N・m
Vehicle weight: 136kg
Used market price: around 200,000 to 360,000 yen

8. Kawasaki Z125 PRO

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/z125pro/

The Z125 PRO is a 125cc MT motorcycle from Kawasaki that boasts a compact body, inheriting the lineage of Kawasaki's Z series.

Despite its compact body, it is equipped with features comparable to larger motorcycles, such as gold anodized inverted front forks, front and rear disc brakes, and an offset laydown rear suspension.

The air-cooled single-cylinder engine, which revs smoothly from low to high RPMs, also boasts high fuel efficiency.

It's a full-fledged motorcycle with a compact yet well-equipped design that condenses the design of its larger Z-series siblings.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 9.7ps
Maximum torque: 9.6N・m
Vehicle weight: 102kg
New vehicle sales price: 352,000 yen

9. Honda Monkey 125

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/Monkey125/type/

Honda's Monkey 125 was newly released in 2018, replacing the highly popular "Monkey 50" which ceased production in 2017.

Despite being a 125cc class, it inherits the compact style of the Monkey 50, which was characterized by its condensed body.

Due to its small body, it has a seating capacity of one person, and it retains the charming cuteness characteristic of the Monkey.

The air-cooled single-cylinder engine produces 9.4ps, offering powerful performance throughout the RPM range, typical of a single-cylinder engine.

Despite its small body, it is well-equipped with features such as inverted front forks and twin rear shocks.

While it has a strong niche appeal and may not be universally popular, it is a charming 125cc model that truly captivates those who fall for it.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 9.4ps
Maximum torque: 11N・m
Vehicle weight: 105kg
New vehicle sales price: 407,000 yen

10. Kawasaki KLX125

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/4/40_11/

The Kawasaki KLX125 is a 125cc MT off-road motorcycle.

It was introduced in 2009 as a 2010 model and continued production until 2016.

While a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup is considered full-size for 125cc off-road bikes, the KLX125 intentionally uses a 19-inch front and 16-inch rear to improve foot accessibility.

Although the smaller rear wheel lowers the ground clearance, making it somewhat less advantageous for rough terrain, its light weight of 112kg, lighter than other off-road bikes in its class, gives it excellent maneuverability.

The KLX125's slightly smaller body makes it a popular choice as an entry-level off-road bike.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 10ps
Maximum torque: 9.8N・m
Vehicle weight: 112kg
Used market price: around 250,000 to 470,000 yen

11. Honda Super Cub C125

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/C125/type/

The Honda Super Cub C125 is a 125cc Cub that can be enjoyed both in the countryside and in the city, with the tagline "The answer is in nature."

It focuses on seat height and wheelbase to allow for a more relaxed and comfortable ride in natural scenery.

It adopts an upright handlebar and is designed for a natural riding position, making it less tiring even after long rides.

The Super Cub C125 also boasts excellent fuel efficiency, with a catalog fuel economy (60km/h steady-state fuel economy) of 60.9km/L, which is even better than other fuel-efficient 125cc models.

The Super Cub C125 is environmentally friendly by reducing emissions and also offers great fuel economy.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 9.7ps
Maximum torque: 10N・m
Vehicle weight: 110kg
New vehicle sales price: 407,000 yen

12. Yamaha YBR125

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/2/91_1/community/

The Yamaha YBR125 is an overseas model produced and sold by Chinese Yamaha.

It began sales in Brazil in 2000 as a competitor to Honda's CG125, with local production taking place there.

From 2002, production and sales bases expanded to China, and from 2004, to India, but it has never been produced domestically in Japan and is treated as an imported car.

The YBR125 has a total length of 2,010mm, which is a large size for a 125cc, exceeding 2 meters, and is equipped with an air-cooled single-cylinder engine that produces 10ps.

The brakes consist of a single disc at the front and a drum brake at the rear, which might raise some concerns about braking performance.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 10ps
Maximum torque: 9.8N・m
Vehicle weight: 135kg
Used market price: around 150,000 yen

13. KTM 125 DUKE

Source: https://www.ktm.com/ja-jp/models/naked-bike/ktm-125-duke-2021.html

The 125 DUKE is a 125cc MT motorcycle sold by Austrian motorcycle manufacturer "KTM".

The DUKE series consists of naked models, with a wide lineup ranging from 125cc to 1290cc class.

The 125 DUKE is an entry-level naked model, but it boasts equipment comparable to higher-end models, including inverted front forks, LED headlights, and a TFT meter display.

The chassis is shared with the 250 and 390 models, giving it high rigidity to accommodate higher displacements.

It's a model that offers a light and sporty ride, with the lightness of the chassis apparent from the moment you straddle it.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 15ps
Maximum torque: 12N・m
Vehicle weight: 124kg
New vehicle sales price: 569,000 yen

14. Aprilia RS4 125

Source: https://aprilia-japan.com/rsv4_125.html

Aprilia "RS4 125" is a Class 2 moped sports bike from Italian motorcycle manufacturer Aprilia.

True to Aprilia's presence in racing like MotoGP, the 125cc class bike features serious equipment such as a high-rigidity aluminum frame, inverted front forks, and radially mounted 4-pot brake calipers.

The headlights and taillights are LED, and the design is inherited from the RSV4 Factory, a machine that won championships in the Superbike World Championship.

Aprilia is globally renowned, yet its rarity makes it almost never seen on Japanese roads.

The RS4 125 is recommended for those seeking a unique sports bike that few others ride.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 15ps
Maximum torque:
Vehicle weight: 145kg
New vehicle sales price: from 527,000 yen

15. Honda Hunter Cub CT125

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CT125/type/

The Honda Hunter Cub CT125 is a 125cc Cub that can be enjoyed in both the mountains and the city, with the tagline "The answer is in nature."

It focuses on seat height and wheelbase to allow for a more relaxed and comfortable ride in natural scenery.

It adopts an upright handlebar and is designed for a natural riding position, making it less tiring even after long rides.

The engine offers powerful low-to-mid-range torque, making it easy to ride in city traffic with frequent stops and starts, and the engine feel when revving it up is also enjoyable.

Based on the Super Cub 125, this Cub has an extended rear, making it highly practical with a carrier that can carry more luggage.

Engine type: Air-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 8.8ps
Maximum torque: 11N・m
Weight: 120kg
New vehicle price: 440,000 yen

16. Yamaha MT-125

Source: https://www.bikebros.co.jp/catalog/2/999_13/

The Yamaha MT-125 is an entry-level model in the MT series sold overseas.

It has not been announced for the Japanese market, but it has a style similar to the MT-25 and MT-03 domestic models.

The MT-125 was introduced in 2014 as a naked model based on the fully-faired sports bike, the YZF-R125.

The liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine features a "variable valve actuation (VVA)" system, which switches cams at low and high engine speeds to match the engine's RPM.

This 125cc MT bike smoothly handles both city riding, where low-to-mid speeds are primarily used, and sports riding, which involves high RPMs.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 15ps
Maximum torque: 11.5N・m
Weight: 142kg
Used market price: Around 250,000 to 350,000 yen

17. Yamaha XSR125

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/products/motorcycles/sport-heritage/xsr125/

The Yamaha XSR125 is a model that was just released in Europe in May 2021.

It shares the same liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with the MT-125, another model not yet announced in Japan, and is equipped with a variable valve timing mechanism, providing more than enough acceleration for practical use in city riding.

It has a somewhat classic design with a subdued style, where everything from the wheels and front fork to the frame and engine is unified in black.

As of July 2021, there has been no announcement of its release in Japan, but like the MT-125, its introduction to the domestic market is hoped for.

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Maximum output: 15ps
Maximum torque: 11.5N・m
Weight: 140 kg
New vehicle price: £4,450.00 (approx. 680,000 yen)

Summary

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/89-1827482/

125cc MT motorcycles are attractive because their maintenance costs are lower than those of medium-sized motorcycles like 250cc models, and you can also use family rider insurance, which can further reduce voluntary insurance premiums if you own a car.

While classified as small motorcycles in Japan, 125cc bikes are a major class widely ridden in Europe and other regions, and it is characteristic of 125cc models that each manufacturer puts great effort into their production.

Therefore, even Japanese manufacturers have many models sold exclusively in Europe, not in Japan. Obtaining one would involve searching for an imported vehicle or a used one, but they are relatively rare.

We have introduced 17 recommended 125cc MT motorcycles, including newly released models.

We hope this information will be helpful when choosing a 125cc MT motorcycle.