Honda CB125S
71/100 Overall
67 On the road75 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB125S vs Kawasaki KH100
Honda CB125S scores 71/100 overall against Kawasaki KH100 on 68/100. On the road: 67–62. As classics: 75–73. Overall result: Honda CB125S.
Photo: bonhams.com · Public domain
Kawasaki KH100
68/100 Overall
62 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB125S | Kawasaki KH100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB125S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | Honda CB125S |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 5 | Honda CB125S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB125S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB125S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki KH100 |
Choose the Honda CB125S if…
you want an economical, dependable and approachable Honda single with traditional CB styling.
Choose the Kawasaki KH100 if…
you want straightforward Kawasaki two-stroke transport with easy maintenance and authentic learner-bike charm.
Background
History
Honda CB125S
The Honda CB125S was produced from 1971–1985 and used a approximately 125cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KH100
The Kawasaki KH100 was produced from 1976–1988 and used a 99cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB125S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1971 to 1985.
- The recorded engine description is: approximately 125cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, styling.
Kawasaki KH100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1988.
- The recorded engine description is: 99cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB125S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB125S. Its library score for reliability 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 KH100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH100. Its library score for reliability 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
Honda CB125S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 KH100
- 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 Honda CB125S
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH100
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB125S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB125S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB125S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.