

Suffice it to say it wasn’t easy creating this list and by no means is it exhaustive. One of the numerous options within the retro 125 segment, the Brixton Cromwell 125 typifies bikes with a more classic design- Image: Brixton Motorcycles

Moreover, even major manufacturers are now entering the retro, small-displacement segment. There’s truly an abundance of choice, with more than forty models in the UK market alone that meet the 125cc retro motorcycle criterion. However, that path was and is only open to those with the motivation, expertise and (or) the cash to restore/customise and maintain a classic bike.Īll of that’s changed now – for 2023, there’s a vast array of beautifully designed, vintage-inspired machines that riders can access with just a CBT, at a reasonable price.īest Retro 125cc Motorcycle to Buy in 2023

There are plenty of classic 125 motorbikes for sale. Arguably these learner legal machines were not retro in the sense that the genre is regarded today.Īn alternative (back then) was to purchase a true vintage or classic from GumTree, Preloved or eBay: a Honda CL125 for example. For beginners, small retro bike options were curtailed to the Honda Rebel 125, Yamaha YBR Classic and Suzuki VanVan 125. Just a few years back, small-displacement retro and modern-classic motorcycles were limited to just a few machines. However weighing in at 165kg, it should just have the edge in terms of acceleration and agility.Retro 125cc Motorcycles 2023: Overview The Yamaha XSR125 represents one of a few major motorcycle manufacturers who’ve entered the retro 125cc segment – Image: Yamaha Motors The Aquila is powered by a 125cc V-Twin engine with a 13hp maximum output, tying it with the Keeway RK V125 as the most powerful model on the list. The Aquila GV125S nails that 'big bike' feeling thanks to its large proportions and wide 150" rear tyre and when it comes to visuals, Hyosung have knocked it out of the park. What you do get for the money is one of the most authentic cruisers available in 125cc form. Despite the higher cost, there aren't really any extra tech features either, it still uses a combined braking system and keeps itself pretty stripped down and basic. The Aquila GV125S is perhaps the most premium bike on the list with a £3,999 starting price. We'll finish off the list with this beauty from Korean manufacturer Hyosung. Despite using the same base engine, the Vegas has a larger cylinder diameter so it should have a little more grunt to move its bulky weight.īoth bikes start at £3,599 so they are a little more expensive than the Chinese models but still very much in the budget category. The Freedom weighs in at 162kg, while the Vegas is considerably heavier at 172kg. There are a few cosmetic differences between the two with the Freedom offering a pillion seat and larger headlight surround while the Vegas comes with a single seat and slightly lower straight bars. That is pretty decent performance for the cruiser category although they are a little on the heavy side. Both feature an enormous 21L fuel tank which is one of the largest in the 125cc category, so you can expect excellent commuting power and economical performance.īoth the Freedom 125 and Vegas 125 feature the same basic liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine with a maximum 12hp output. They both go the fully blacked-out bobber route with Authentic big bike proportions and cruiser ride position. There are a few differences and I will go over them later but for now, let's look at the similarities.įirstly, both look excellent but then that is no surprise in this category. Definitely one to be excited about!īoth of these motorcycles are available as 2023 models and I have decided to put them together because they are so similar in their styling and performance.
125cc chopper motorcycle update#
We don't have a UK price just yet but considering it is coming from Keeway, I expect a relatively budget price tag - However I will update this blog when we get the full details and spec confirmed. With its 15L tank filled up, the V-Cruise will weigh in at just 152kg, so in terms of power-to-weight ratio, it should have the performance to match its looks. That puts it straight to the top of the list in terms of raw power here and with a considerably reduced weight. The V-Cruise will use a 125cc V-Twin engine with an impressive 13.7hp output. The V-Cruise is essentially the Benda Fox 125 rebranded for the UK market, so despite not being officially released yet, we already have a good idea of its spec. A modern bobber with plenty of extra detailing on the bodywork, a large LED headlight, and cool bar end mirrors. I saw it on display at Motorcycle Live and it completely blew me away. The V-Cruise will be arriving later this year and its hard to do justice to just how good this bike looks in person.
