Kawasaki KH125
68/100 Overall
63 On the road73 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KH125 vs Yamaha RD80LC
Kawasaki KH125 scores 68/100 overall against Yamaha RD80LC on 74/100. On the road: 63–62. As classics: 73–85. Overall result: Yamaha RD80LC.
Photo: wikimedia.org · Public domain
Yamaha RD80LC
74/100 Overall
62 On the road85 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki KH125 | Yamaha RD80LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 4 | Kawasaki KH125 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki KH125 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 5 | Kawasaki KH125 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 7 | 9 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RD80LC |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha RD80LC |
Choose the Kawasaki KH125 if…
you want simple two-stroke performance, conventional styling and a practical Kawasaki learner classic.
Choose the Yamaha RD80LC if…
you want a small-capacity 1980s two-stroke with LC styling, learner-bike nostalgia and lively performance.
Background
History
Kawasaki KH125
The Kawasaki KH125 was produced from 1976–1989 and used a 124cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha RD80LC
The Yamaha RD80LC was produced from 1982–1986 and used a 79cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, character, 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 KH125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, character, styling.
Yamaha RD80LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 79cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, character, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki KH125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH125. Its library score for ownership appeal 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.
Yamaha RD80LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD80LC. 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.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Kawasaki KH125
- 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 RD80LC
- 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 KH125
Rivals to the Yamaha RD80LC
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KH125 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD80LC wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD80LC takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.