The Honda CR125 is a legendary off-road motorcycle that carved a strong legacy in motocross history. First introduced by Honda in 1973, the CR125 evolved over the decades to become one of the most competitive two-stroke motocross bikes in its class. Known for its responsive handling, lightweight design, and rapid acceleration, the CR125 was a favourite among professional riders and enthusiasts alike. The model saw continuous upgrades until it was officially discontinued in 2007 due to shifting market trends that favoured four-stroke engines over two-stroke models.
With rising environmental concerns and stricter emission regulations, Honda ceased production of the CR125, replacing it with four-stroke models like the CRF150 and CRF250, which continue to be active in Pakistan through grey market imports and local racing scenes.
Although inactive, the Honda CR125 continues to hold a nostalgic and performance-driven appeal among motocross communities in Pakistan, where it occasionally appears in dirt racing and enthusiast circles.
Honda CR125 Specs
The Honda CR125 (JE01) was engineered for high-performance motocross racing, featuring a lightweight yet powerful configuration. The motorcycle is powered by a JE01 engine, a 124.8 cc, water-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder unit with a crankcase reed valve design. The bore and stroke dimensions are 54.0 mm by 54.5 mm, respectively, and the compression ratio is 8.6:1. It delivers a maximum power output of 31.3 kW (42 hp) at 11,500 rpm, while its peak torque is 28.9 Nm at 10,000 rpm. The CR125 utilises a TMX05A carburettor with a 38mm main bore for precise control of the fuel-air mixture.
This dirt bike is equipped with a constant-mesh 5-speed return transmission and features a wet multi-plate clutch system with coil springs. The primary kick starter system offers simplicity in starting the engine, while the CDI digital ignition with electronic advance ensures efficient spark timing.
The fuel tank has a capacity of 7.7 litres, allowing moderate trail coverage before refuelling is needed. The bike's dry weight is 87.5 kilograms, which significantly contributes to its agility.
Suspension duties are handled by a telescopic inverted front fork with a cushion stroke of 305 mm and a rear swing arm (Pro-Link) with an axle travel of 320 mm. The braking system features hydraulic disc brakes on both ends, providing adequate stopping power. The front tire measures 80/100-21, while the rear tire is 100/90-19.
The frame is constructed from aluminium twin tube material, offering a balance of strength and weight. Gear ratios range from 2.308 in first gear to 1.130 in fifth gear, with a primary reduction of 3.150 and a final reduction of 4.000. A caster angle of 25°46′ and a trail of 102 mm enhance the bike's cornering stability and handling performance.
Honda CR125 Design and Features
The Honda CR125 was purpose-built for aggressive motocross performance. With its slim profile, high ground clearance, and ergonomically positioned seat, the CR125 ensures superior rider manoeuvrability on off-road terrain. The aluminium twin tube frame not only contributes to the bike's feather-light handling but also adds rigidity essential for absorbing high-speed jumps and rugged trail impacts. The red and white factory colour scheme reflects Honda's racing heritage, giving it a distinctly bold presence on the track.
One of the standout features of the CR125 is its inverted telescopic front suspension, which offers a 305 mm cushion stroke, providing superior shock absorption even during intense landings. The rear Pro-Link swing arm system, featuring 320 mm of axle travel, ensures balanced damping, enhancing ride comfort and control over unpredictable surfaces. Riders also benefit from hydraulic disc brakes on both ends, which offer strong and consistent braking power, vital during high-speed cornering or sudden stops.
In terms of control, the CR125 features a CDI digital ignition system with electronic advance, ensuring reliable spark delivery and improved engine response. Its wet multi-plate clutch system provides consistent engagement, while the 5-speed transmission offers gear ratios designed for quick acceleration and smooth power delivery across varying tracks. The TMX05A carburettor with its 38mm bore ensures efficient air-fuel mixture regulation for high-rev performance.
Tires sized for dirt terrain further enhance off-road grip. The front tire (80/100-21) and rear tire (100/90-19) provide a broad contact patch and deep treads, effectively handling dirt, mud, and rocky trails. Additionally, the minimalist bodywork and race-style seat facilitate easy rider positioning during dynamic movements, such as cornering and jumping.
Honda CR125 Fuel Average
As a high-performance, two-stroke motocross bike, the Honda CR125 was not built with fuel efficiency as a primary goal. However, under real-world riding conditions on off-road trails, the bike delivers an average fuel consumption of around 40 km/l.
The actual mileage may vary depending on terrain, riding style, and the quality of maintenance. Riders should note that two-stroke engines typically consume more fuel and require oil mixing, which slightly increases running costs compared to four-stroke models.
Honda CR125 Competitors
During its active years, the Honda CR125 faced tough competition from several other 125cc two-stroke motocross bikes. Its main rivals included the Yamaha YZ125, Suzuki DR-Z125, and Kawasaki KLX110. Among these, the Yamaha YZ125 shared a similar reputation for lightweight agility and high-revving performance.
The Suzuki RM125 was also favored for its throttle response and durability, while the Kawasaki KX125 offered strong suspension tuning and stability. In the Pakistani market, where dirt bikes are largely imported and used for niche motorsports, these models coexisted in the enthusiast space, often dominating local dirt track events and motocross competitions.
While not officially launched by Atlas Honda Pakistan, the CR125 and its competitors arrived in limited numbers through individual imports and special orders. As a result, spare parts and servicing for these bikes were available only through specialised mechanics or aftermarket suppliers in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad.
Is the Honda CR125 worth buying?
The Honda CR125, although discontinued, remains a highly desirable bike for off-road enthusiasts in 2025. Its lightweight frame, powerful two-stroke engine, and race-bred components make it an ideal machine for motocross riders looking for raw performance and agility. However, potential buyers should consider a few factors before investing in a second-hand unit.
First, since the model is no longer in production, the availability of genuine spare parts in Pakistan can be a challenge. Riders may need to rely on imported parts or used components from donor bikes. Additionally, two-stroke engines require more frequent maintenance and oil-mixing practices that some modern riders may not be accustomed to. Despite these drawbacks, the CR125 enjoys substantial resale value among enthusiasts who recognise its iconic status.
For those willing to maintain it properly, the Honda CR125 can still offer thrilling performance on dirt tracks and off-road trails. Its robust build, competitive racing history, and lightweight structure give it an edge over many newer bikes in the same category. However, it is not a suitable choice for daily commuting or casual riding due to its aggressive setup and high maintenance requirements.