Who says you need a big bike to have an adventure? Here at ABR we like to celebrate the fact that you can get out there on two-wheels and have an epic trip no matter how big the engine is. It may take a little longer to get to your destination on a 125 but hey, it’s all about the journey and not the destination, right?
Well, that’s exactly where this feature comes in. For those of you who are new to riding and only hold an A1 license, or even for those who just want to try out something smaller before plumping for a hefty 1200 GS, here are 10 of the best 125cc adventure bikes.
Sinnis 125 Terrain
Looking at the Sinnis 125 Terrain, you’d be forgiven for thinking it had a larger capacity than the 125cc that’s on offer, with it measuring up fairly close to the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 that we’ve got on loan at the moment in terms of size. It has all the typical adventure-style add-ons as well, including crash bars, a taller screen, full luggage set, a bash plate, and it’s even got an adventure beak on it. It did more than enough to impress ABR Editor Bryn back in 2017, and you can read his full review on the mini adventure bike here.
Price: £2,589
Performance: 8.3kW (11.2bhp)
Fuel capacity: 14 litres
Weight: 150kg
Seat height: 800mm
KTM 125 Duke
The KTM 125 Duke (there’s also 390cc, 690cc, 990cc and 1290cc versions) isn’t really an ‘adventure bike’ per se, but it’s a good option for those looking to ride a well-built, great looking 125 that’s also fairly nippy. Off-roading is pretty much out of the question unless some modifications are made, but it will suit you well for any road tours you may want to go on.
Price: £3,999 (from £2,400 used)
Performance: 11kW (15bhp)
Fuel capacity: 11 litres
Weight: 127kg
Seat height: 800mm
Honda XL125 Varadero
The Honda XL125 Varadero is arguably one of the most sought after 125 motorcycles, largely down to its big bike looks and feel, but also down to the excellent build quality. Unfortunately Honda has discontinued the bike but there are plenty of second hand models available. 2007 models will offer fuel injection and more modern looking fairing.
Price: £1,500 (older models) – £3,500 (newer)
Performance: 11kW (15bhp)
Fuel capacity: 17.5 litres
Weight: 154kg
Seat height: 800mm
Suzuki RV 125 Van Van 125
The Suzuki Van Van is probably most notable for its chunky back tyre and as a dual-purpose 125 it’s a great little machine for road riding, mixed in with some gentle green laning. It’s not a particularly big bike and it you’re a large person then you may find it’s a bit too small (at 6’2 and 16 stone I certainly did). Though, if you don’t have that problem it’s a great bike and you can pick them up for about £1600 used.
Price: Discontinued (Available from £1,500 second hand)
Performance: 8.5kW
Fuel capacity: 6.5 litres
Weight: 128kg
Seat height: 770mm
Derbi Terra Adventure 125
As happy cruising at 60-65mph in sixth as it is tackling the mud, the Derbi lives up to the dual-sport name, albeit with only 125cc. Seat comfort and a supple ride make the slower days no hardship unlike most of the 125s on the market. If you’re happy seeing the world at 60, the Terra Adventure is up to the job.
Price: £3,249 (from £2,300 used)
Performance: 11.2kW (15bhp)
Fuel capacity: 11 litres
Weight: 117kg
Seat height: 850mm
Yamaha WR125R
With a seat height of 930mm the Yamaha WR125R is the perfect choice for larger A1 adventurers. The high price may be off putting to some, but it’s worth it when build and engine quality are taken into consideration. It’s competent at both on and off-road riding and as far as 125s go, it offers an impressive top speed of 75mph.
Price: £4,099 (from £2,000 used)
Performance: 11kW (14.8bhp)
Fuel capacity: 8.5 litres
Weight: 126kg
Seat: 930mm
Kawasaki KLX 125
If you’re concerned about the already limited speeds of your 125 then the KLX125 isn’t for you. A meagre 10.6bhp offers little in the way of power and a top speed of 62mph might end up frustrating many riders, especially on a longer distance ride. As a commuter and casual weekend green laner though, the KLX125 is great.
Price: £2,949 (from £1,700 used)
Performance: 7.9kW (10.6bhp)
Fuel capacity: 7 litres
Weight: 113kg
Seat height: 830mm
Test ride every adventure and touring bike in one venue
Looking to buy a new bike? Perhaps you’d like to leave your decision until after you’ve gone for a test ride. In that case, the Adventure Bike Rider Festival 2021 is the place for you.
Ever major manufacturer will be in attendance, all with a full range of gleaming test bikes just begging to be ridden throughout the day.
Pick up your discounted tickets and save £10 by clicking HERE. Previous years have always sold out, and 2021 will be no different, so book today to avoid disappointment.
Pulse Adrenaline 125
Another great value for money 125 and it’s one that I considered getting while I was in the process of taking my tests. The Adrenaline 125 is the flagship model for Pulse leading the way in their 125cc sales and it’s not hard to see why. At £1,399 it’s a great looking bike at an incredible price. It’s fun to ride and if things go wrong there are plenty of spares to be found on eBay etc.
Price: £1,399.99 (from £850 used)
Performance: 8.4kW (11.3bhp)
Fuel capacity: 10.6 litres
Weight: 127kg
Seat height: 890mm
Aprilia SX 125
Redesigned in 2018, the new Aprilia SX 125 followed in the footsteps of a punchy 2-stroke that would do the business on the more difficult green lanes of the UK while holding its own on the tarmac. The new 4-stroke engine is slightly down on power compared to the previous 2-stroke models, but offers the feel of a premium bike at a very reasonable cost.
Price: £3,449 (from £2,500 used)
Performance: 11kW (15bhp)
Fuel capacity: 10 litres
Weight: 120kg
Seat height: 870mm
Honda XR125L
The Honda XR125L is a brilliant bike for taking on your A1 adventures if you fancy combining road riding and green laning. The looks combined with the size of the bike make it seem like a larger machine and it has the usual quality associated with Honda motorcycles. Older versions of the Honda XR125L are available, but the newer ones have the useful inclusion of an electric start.
Price: From £1,000 used
Performance: 8.2kW (11bhp)
Fuel capacity: 12 litres
Weight: 119kg
Seat height: 820mm
This article was originally published on 29 October 2015, and has been updated on 9 June 2020 to include some models that have since been released.
