Revived in 2018 by Fantic Motor, the Caballero 125 Scrambler is inspired by the iconic seventies scrambler/dirt bike of the same name. Fantic Caballero Scrambler 125 Updated Caballero Scrambler 125 featuring the Iconic red tank with yellow race plate – Image: Fantic Motor Brakes: Hydraulic single disc, Ø 267 mm (front) and single disc, Ø 220 mm (rear).Engine: Liquid-cooled, SOHC, Single cylinder, 4-stroke.And of course, coupled with Yamaha build quality, it’s an undeniably attractive retro 125. However, its upright riding position and relatively low seat make it appealing to new riders. For others, it might not be retro enough, particularly when compared with the design of some of the bikes on this list. It’s dripping in best-of-breed tech, aluminium components and gadgetry that’s rare to find on a 125cc.įor some riders, the XSR125 price may be out of reach. It’s clear, that the XSR125 is a very well-put-together small-displacement motorcycle. Including Honda’s CB125 R and Husqvarna’s Svartpilen 125, the XSR125 is one of a handful of retro (or rather neo-retro) motorcycles from major global motorcycle manufacturers which immediately marks it for consideration. On paper, alongside the two other bikes featured on this list, it’s the fastest. Furthermore, it’s paired with Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology meaning that power and torque are delivered evenly throughout the rev range. The Euro5, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine reportedly achieves 14.8 bhp (11.0 kW). Closeup of Two Riders on the Yamaha-XSR125 in Redline and Impact Yellow colour-schemes Paired with the strong but light Deltabox frame it means an altogether light and agile motorcycle that offers a stable ride. Lightweight 10-spoke alloy wheels further celebrate the 70s motif but additionally offers low sprung weight, suspended by USD forks up at the front. Round LED lights are found at the front and rear and combined with a round LCD instruments dial that channels a seventies aesthetic. And yet it comes in a distinct seventies package. As such, it borrows its base from the MT-125 Hyper Naked and R125 Supersport. It’s a principle that sees the marque deftly incorporate aesthetics and iconography of (non-specific) motorcycles from Yamaha’s past while utilising modern technology.Īs the latest addition to the Sport Heritage range, the A1 licence-friendly XSR125 is built in the same vein. At first glance, that approach could be considered lackadaisical were it not for the brand’s Faster Sons philosophy. Yamaha’s Sport Heritage line has seen the manufacturer remodel existing platforms in a retro guise. Yamaha XSR125 XSR125 in Redline paint scheme rear right Sponsored » Renchlist may earn a fee if you take up a policy, at noġ. Hanway SC 125 Furious – Best Retro-Inspired Naked Spirit 125 Best Modern-Classic 125 Cafe RacerĬromwell 125 – Best Classically-Styled Roadster – Caballero Scrambler 125 – Best 125cc Scrambler Regardless, without further ado (and in no particular order) here’s a rundown of ten motorcycles that we think represent the best retro 125 bikes for beginners. 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. 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

125cc chopper motorcycle