Suzuki GSX-R125

What is happening to Suzuki Motorcycles? When I saw the press for Australia I did a double take: it does read GSX-R125! all new for 2018. Welcome to the first 125cc learner legal GSX-R super sports – well so the branding indicates.

In terms of looks the GSX-R125 is cutting edge, sort of looks like the existing GSX-R bikes and perhaps a hint at the next generation styling? It’s not challenging to look or does it really offend and it is ‘sporty’ to look at. It’s primary competitors in the Yamaha YZF-R125 which is one of the best looking 125cc and immediately evokes sports motorcycle which unfortunately the GSX-R125 doesn’t match. The KTM RC125 is an even better interpretation of the 125cc super sports motorcycle as it does’t look like any other thanks to high quality parts, properly designed muffler and a composite rear swing arm.

In terms of technology, specifications and performance the GSX-R125 is not exactly brimming with obvious tech but it certainly has features like EFI, keyless ignition, full digital instrument panel, LED lighting and even ABS. It is missing the alloy frame and 3 cylinders of regular GSX-Rs which is disappointing but it’s on road pricing is the main feature that makes all this forgivable. The Suzuki GSX-R125 is priced $3,990 including on road costs! No other motorcycle in the class has these features.

In the end the Suzuki GSX-R125 is a great entry into the 125cc class. It also means it is LAMS approved for learner riders. Suzuki boasts that it is the best performing 125cc in the class, thanks to it’s power to weight ratio but it’s only by a tiny margin. However I think they should have gone a little further with the exterior fairing. The key selling point is the price, for a under $4000 AUD you can have a brand new Suzuki in your garage.