Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Kawasaki AR125
77/100 Overall
65 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki AR125 vs Honda MTX125R
Kawasaki AR125 scores 77/100 overall against Honda MTX125R on 75/100. On the road: 65–70. As classics: 88–80. Overall result: Kawasaki AR125.
Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Honda MTX125R
75/100 Overall
70 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki AR125 | Honda MTX125R | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Honda MTX125R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Honda MTX125R |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Honda MTX125R |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki AR125 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki AR125 if…
you want a sporty liquid-cooled 1980s learner bike with lively performance and unmistakable Kawasaki styling.
Choose the Honda MTX125R if…
you want Honda reliability with tall trail-bike styling, lively two-stroke performance and genuine 1980s nostalgia.
Background
History
Kawasaki AR125
The Kawasaki AR125 was produced from 1982–1989 and used a 123cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda MTX125R
The Honda MTX125R was produced from 1983–1989 and used a 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Kawasaki AR125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 123cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, character.
Honda MTX125R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, reliability.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Kawasaki AR125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki AR125. 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.
Honda MTX125R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda MTX125R. Its library score for character 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 AR125
- 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.
Honda MTX125R
- 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 AR125
Rivals to the Honda MTX125R
Final result
The verdict
Honda MTX125R wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki AR125 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki AR125 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.