Kawasaki KR-1
82/100 Overall
73 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KR-1 vs Suzuki RG125 Gamma
Kawasaki KR-1 scores 82/100 overall against Suzuki RG125 Gamma on 79/100. On the road: 73–70. As classics: 90–88. Overall result: Kawasaki KR-1.
Photo: MrOsamaful · CC BY-SA 3.0
Suzuki RG125 Gamma
79/100 Overall
70 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki KR-1 | Suzuki RG125 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki RG125 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 6 | Suzuki RG125 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki KR-1 |
Choose the Kawasaki KR-1 if…
you want a rare, very fast lightweight two-stroke with sharp handling and unmistakable late-1980s attitude.
Choose the Suzuki RG125 if…
you want race-replica looks, a strong two-stroke powerband and the excitement of a small 1980s Suzuki Gamma.
Background
History
Kawasaki KR-1
The Kawasaki KR-1 was produced from 1988–1989 and used a 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for handling, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki RG125
The Suzuki RG125 Gamma was produced from 1985–1989 and used a 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, handling, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki KR-1
- Its production span in this library runs from 1988 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are handling, character, styling.
Suzuki RG125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, handling, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki KR-1
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KR-1. Its library score for handling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki RG125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki RG125 Gamma. 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 KR-1
- 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.
Suzuki RG125
- 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 KR-1
Rivals to the Suzuki RG125
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KR-1 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki KR-1 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki KR-1 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.