Yamaha RD125DX
77/100 Overall
63 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD125DX vs Kawasaki KH125
Yamaha RD125DX scores 77/100 overall against Kawasaki KH125 on 68/100. On the road: 63–63. As classics: 90–73. Overall result: Yamaha RD125DX.
Kawasaki KH125
68/100 Overall
63 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD125DX | Kawasaki KH125 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 8 | Kawasaki KH125 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Kawasaki KH125 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD125DX |
Choose the Yamaha RD125DX if…
you want a proper twin-cylinder learner motorcycle with disc-brake styling, a crisp exhaust note and strong 1970s nostalgia.
Choose the Kawasaki KH125 if…
you want simple two-stroke performance, conventional styling and a practical Kawasaki learner classic.
Background
History
Yamaha RD125DX
The Yamaha RD125DX was produced from 1975–1982 and used a 124cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KH125
The Kawasaki KH125 was produced from 1976–1989 and used a 124cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD125DX
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Kawasaki KH125
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD125DX
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD125DX. 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.
Kawasaki KH125
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH125. Its library score for ownership appeal 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
Yamaha RD125DX
- 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.
Kawasaki KH125
- 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 Yamaha RD125DX
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH125
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Yamaha RD125DX wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD125DX takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.