Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Kawasaki AR125
77/100 Overall
65 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki AR125 vs Kawasaki KMX125
Kawasaki AR125 scores 77/100 overall against Kawasaki KMX125 on 71/100. On the road: 65–67. As classics: 88–75. Overall result: Kawasaki AR125.
Photo: webike.net · Public domain
Kawasaki KMX125
71/100 Overall
67 On the road75 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki AR125 | Kawasaki KMX125 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 5 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Kawasaki KMX125 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Kawasaki KMX125 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki AR125 |
Choose the Kawasaki AR125 if…
you want a sporty liquid-cooled 1980s learner bike with lively performance and unmistakable Kawasaki styling.
Choose the Kawasaki KMX125 if…
you want a lively 1980s trail bike with learner nostalgia, good road manners and genuine off-road style.
Background
History
Kawasaki AR125
The Kawasaki AR125 was produced from 1982–1989 and used a 123cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KMX125
The Kawasaki KMX125 was produced from 1986–1989 and used a 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, handling, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki AR125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 123cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, character.
Kawasaki KMX125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, handling, character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki AR125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki AR125. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Kawasaki KMX125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KMX125. Its library score for styling is 8/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Kawasaki AR125
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Kawasaki KMX125
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Kawasaki AR125
Rivals to the Kawasaki KMX125
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KMX125 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki AR125 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki AR125 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.