NSR125 vs RG125

[GreenOil]

So, I'm 17 (almost 18) and have decided I want a bike, something reasonable for getting around on while I'm a student (likely to be a while longer yet). I've been reading up, on these forums (which are fantastic, by the way) and other sites, and the main question I have left is NSR or RG?

So, I guess what would be perfect if one of you long-time bikers could give me a brief run down of how the two compare. Main things I want to know are: Reliability (if they have a re-occuring problem, how expensive is it and how often does it go wrong!), acceleration and speed of course (I would like to know a rough top speed, as I keep finding quite different quotes for each bike, from about 80 to 110. However also how well do they run at 30 through to 70, as that is of course everyday speed!). Handling also, and anything else you feel is worth a mention.

Also, is there likely to be a large difference in the price if I pick one up second hand? Also (apart from the general guides) is there anything specific I should look out for when viewing either of these bikes?

Thanks in advance! Look forward to a reply!

[jay_666]

I'd say go for the NSR out of the two. It a honda, so it's fairly reliable (for a 2 stroke) and parts are alot easier to find, although the bike may cost a bit more than the RG. Top speed should be somewhere around 85 ish i think? (derestricted)
When buying, just check its been looked after. Make shure the owners used good oil, and if its had an servicing done to it, ask for receipts for the work(if done by a garage). Check for any corrosin to the exhaust, although you i think you should expect to find a bit as its impossible to keep them looking new. Also, dont forget things like the V5 and any other documents. Oh, and make sure engine and frame numbers match up. Theres probably other things aswell, which i'm sure someone else will point out to you.
Hope this helps
____________________
CBT - Done | Theory - Passed | Test - 4th Oct [PASSED!]
https://www.bikepics.com/members/jay666/

[NSR-Rulez]

Hi the NSR will do 95 (Real speed) when derestricted, the bike is very rideable between 30 and 70, the bike does not take too long to get there, it is a very good bike.

The RG 125 may be harder to find but may well be cheaper to insure as it is the older bike, i dont think there is alot in it performance wise.

The NSR will be easier to find but at the end of the day it's what bike suits you.


HTH


NSR-Rulez
____________________
Past: 1985 Suzuki GS 125 + 2002 Honda NSR 125 R-2 + Ford Fusion
Present: Honda CBR 600 RR-5 + Suzuki SV650S-K4 + Mitsubishi FTO GPX

[GreenOil]

Hi, thanks to both of you, some very useful info. I'm leaning to look more at the RG's but I'll see if I can view (and maybe test ride) each before I decide. Still plenty of time to decide since I have to get my licence/training stuff orginised first.

Anyway, thanks!

(P.S. Feel free to post if you have any more input anyone...)

[stevo as b4]

If it's an RG Fun 92-96 bike your looking at, then good luck. The later model 92> RG125's i would say have the least reliable 2stroke engine of any sports 125. They are fine until they wear out, but a worn engine normally fails quite spectacular, and there are well known Suzuki powervalve issues which often destroy the engine, with these and RGV250 engines.

I agree that the RG with it's usd forks looks a bit more trick than the Honda, but it's not the best bike overall out of the two, even if it's maybe 5mph or so faster, both at 12bhp and de-restricted to 30bhp. With a 10year old or there abouts 2stroke 125, you should really be looking for the best condition, and well looked after bike possible. Id try to buy something with less than 10k miles or else over 20k miles, as if its done much over 20'000m it is almost certain to have had an engine re-build. Most sporty 125's especially the more powerful unrestricted models, will never last 20k without a re-build.

If you see a nice, well looked after NSR, with some history, and evidence of being very well maintained and looked after, then you should end up with a nice reliable bike. Id not limit myself to only 2 specific models, although the Japanese stuff is easier and quicker to get parts for, than anything Italian etc. If i was only interested in a RG125F, and i brought one, then as well as any other work the average 15yr old bike might need, id budget for a full engine re-build too. It's too much of a risk to take otherwise IMO.