Photo: japan.webike.net · Public domain
Kawasaki AR125
77/100 Overall
65 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki AR125 vs Yamaha RXS100
Kawasaki AR125 scores 77/100 overall against Yamaha RXS100 on 70/100. On the road: 65–65. As classics: 88–75. Overall result: Kawasaki AR125.
Photo: Graham Ó Síodhacháin · CC BY-SA 2.0
Yamaha RXS100
70/100 Overall
65 On the road75 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki AR125 | Yamaha RXS100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 4 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 5 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 9 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| 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 Yamaha RXS100 if…
you want a durable, uncomplicated two-stroke commuter that taught a generation how to ride and maintain a motorcycle.
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.
Yamaha RXS100
The Yamaha RXS100 was produced from 1983–1989 and used a 98cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability, historic importance. 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.
Yamaha RXS100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 98cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability, historic importance.
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.
Yamaha RXS100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RXS100. Its library score for ownership appeal 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.
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.
Yamaha RXS100
- 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 Yamaha RXS100
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Kawasaki AR125 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki AR125 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.