Photo: webike.net · Public domain
Kawasaki KMX125
71/100 Overall
67 On the road75 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KMX125 vs Yamaha RXS100
Kawasaki KMX125 scores 71/100 overall against Yamaha RXS100 on 70/100. On the road: 67–65. As classics: 75–75. Overall result: Kawasaki KMX125.
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 KMX125 | Yamaha RXS100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 4 | Kawasaki KMX125 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki KMX125 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 5 | Kawasaki KMX125 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 9 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki KMX125 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RXS100 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 8 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki KMX125 if…
you want a lively 1980s trail bike with learner nostalgia, good road manners and genuine off-road style.
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 KMX125
The Kawasaki KMX125 was produced from 1986–1989 and used a 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, handling, 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 KMX125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, handling, 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 KMX125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KMX125. Its library score for styling 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 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 KMX125
- 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 KMX125
Rivals to the Yamaha RXS100
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KMX125 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Kawasaki KMX125 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.