Which bike from these?

Newbiker0507 · Crazy Courier Joined: 30 Oct 2007 Karma :

I've just received compensation from an accident so I am buying myself a new 125 until I can afford to do my DAS. I am probably going to keep it for about 9 months.

I am looking for something that has a good combo of the following:

a) A little bit of kick (for A road/distance riding). I've already had a CBR and CG so I know what I'm working with re those and they're pitiful at long distances. I also want a little bit of fun.
b) Fairly good economy (although this counterfeits the first point somewhat). I know none of the list is going to match the wonderful economy of a CG, but that aside which one of the list has it?
c) Ease/cheapness of maintenance: What it says on the tin
d) Lastability if looked after: On the tin.
e) Good resale value.
f) Something that looks *quite* nice.

My list comprises of the following:

Honda CG (Most economical, slow as hell)
Honda CBR125 (looks nice, but slow)
Honda NSR125 (This is probably the closest to my requirements)
Skyjet 125 (Basically a CBR but cheaper to insure/buy)
Aprilia RS125 (the one I *really* want, but don't have the money for constant maintenance)
Cagiva Mito (as per the Aprilia RS125)

Can anyone add/offer anything of value?

tvr321 · Nitrous Nuisance Joined: 20 Sep 2009 Karma :

Have a look for a TDR 125, I'd say that matches all of your requirements. It's a two stroke, so it'll be a lot quicker than your CBR or CG were, economy will be decent, they have the same engine as the DT/TZR so they'll be reliable and they're reasonably pretty.

fiveus · Spanner Monkey Joined: 29 Oct 2009 Karma :

have you looked at a honda Varadero 125.good economy .will do 70mph .good on fuel extremly reliable.And comfy on long runs.i use mine on 220 mile runs down to cornwall no probs at all

Newbiker0507 · Crazy Courier Joined: 30 Oct 2007 Karma :

TDR has that Trial bike look I'm not too keen on, and the Varadero is HUGE - another thing I'm not keen on.

Oz. · Spanner Monkey Joined: 21 Apr 2008 Karma :

I don't know if I am misunderstanding you but would it not be cheaper to do your DAS than it is to buy a new 125?

By new do you mean never owned? If not and its just a new bike I'd say something cheap like a Honda CG if you are wanting to do your DAS, less money spent = more money to DAS savings. Also look to see if any of the schools near you do lessons rather than 3 day courses. That way you can pay as you, works easier for me as I suck at saving.

Alasdair Murison · Nova Slayer Joined: 28 Nov 2009 Karma :

RS or mito for speed and looks out of the bunch

but both are fairly pricy to: buy, maintain and run.

so probably a 4 stroke would be the better option cost wise.

as mentioned above, have you considered doing the test and getting a bigger bike?

for a first bike something with a little less power couldn't hurt though Very Happy

____________________
MY 2008 Aprilia RS 125
Passed test : 15/08/08
Riding since : 15/06/08 (17th Birthday)

Newbiker0507 · Crazy Courier Joined: 30 Oct 2007 Karma :

I'm not doing my DAS just yet.

I don't have the money to retake it should I fail. I don't have the money to take it, buy, insure and maintain a *proper* bike should I pass.

I do have the money for a USED 125 however.

I'm veering towards the NSR. Going to see one tomorrow.

el_oso · World Chat Champion Joined: 17 May 2008 Karma :

Theoutsider · Scooby Slapper Joined: 03 Sep 2008 Karma :

NSR is the best option.12000 miles never had a problem I only changed 1 spark plug Thumbs Up

johnsmith222 · World Chat Champion Joined: 26 Dec 2008 Karma :

From what I hear, the NSR is really reliable for a 2 stroke so it's the one I'd go for.