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 Suzuki RG125 Gamma
Kawasaki AR125 scores 77/100 overall against Suzuki RG125 Gamma on 79/100. On the road: 65–70. As classics: 88–88. Overall result: Suzuki RG125 Gamma.
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 AR125 | Suzuki RG125 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki RG125 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki RG125 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki RG125 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| 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. | 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 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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
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 AR125
Rivals to the Suzuki RG125
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki RG125 Gamma wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Suzuki RG125 Gamma takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.