CT125 UK Alternatives

[cass]

I just received my UK provisional driving license, so I'm restricted to 125cc.

I'm moving to the far north of Scotland, so would like something that, even after I get a proper UK license/car, I will want to use for camping trips and dirt roads.

The Honda CT125 Hunter Cub looks like a perfect match - 125cc adventure bike with upright position, large rear rack, classic style, good fuel efficiency, and a make/model that will hold value through time.

Sadly, there are none to be found in the UK. I talked with Seven Seas, but they were unable to provide an estimate of the next shipment, and it sounds like it will be many months before they would have something road ready.

I am failing to find anything comparable to the CT125. Any suggestions for alternatives or should I hold out for more Hunter Cubs to become available?

I would prefer not to go for something with a much lower top speed or that cannot handle a bit of off-roading. As someone with little experience maintaining a motorcycle, I am hesitant (though tempted) to go with something vintage.

Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

[wightegi]

Seven Seas have a Cros Cub 110 for sale , a member on here has one. The earlier `CT` not as hitech so easier to live with .

[125erCrazy]

Suzuki RV125 VanVan

Honda Innova/ Suzuki Address (I know somebody who took the panels off and customised a rear pipe for green lanes )

Honda Varedero but getting scarce

Suzuki DT/Dejebel 125 (rare now)

Kwak KLX125



Any Honda CB125 (loads to choose from) chop away to suit your style however if you moving to the North of Scotland postage will be a consideration.

Two good Scottish dealerships I've dealt with are Alan Duffus and Cupar (but second hand through dealers are premium money now)

[cass]

Ah thanks, I'll have a look.

Other than the lack of rear rack, any major downsides to going with a road-legal enduro or supermoto (e.g. Yamaha DT125R or Aprilia RX125)?

[125erCrazy]

Both models I forgot about Street moto tend to have small front wheel.

Aprillia RX as I remember tall for a 125 and skinny seat

[Scootyman]

I think the Cross Cub at Seven Seas would be your only close option. As much as I would love one, it’s quite expensive for what it is. Wouldn’t stop me buying, it’s just I’m about to get something quite similar, only it doesn’t fit your requirements due to the engine size. Michelin are launching a new tyre for it mind, called the Anakee street in Cub sizes which might interest some. Given the choice, I’d go for that Cross Cub. There’s nothing quite like a cub bike, new or old. Seven Seas also have some brand new Honda Wave 110’s. That would be just as good with a tyre change for gravel roads as a CT or a Cross Cub 110 I’m sure. Just ask the community here how many have taken a C90 on gravel lanes / green lanes. I should imagine quite a few.

[Capitano]

Aprillia RX as I remember tall for a 125 and skinny seat

Albeit surprisingly comfortable to sit on.

Brighton Moto (previously CD scooters) do these. Definitely "full-size," bikes and seem very well made.

I know that some folks have had issues with Piaggio brand bikes in the past but my personal experience has been good if not excellent.

I'd have one!

[Nezumi]

Seven Seas have an MD90 Postal Cub... read; industrial strength C90 (which has many similarities to the CT). With a little fiddling 17" wheels can be fitted too. And they've the 'classic' look.

Dunno, just a side thought.

[cass]

Thank you for all the suggestions!

With the older cubs (c90, MD90, CC110, C110 Pro etc) how should I factor in milage and age? Most of the ones advertised by Seven Seas look to be rather high in milage, but I know they are also highly durable. I have a poor sense of how long these motorcycles typically last.

[Nezumi]

Thank you for all the suggestions!

With the older cubs (c90, MD90, CC110, C110 Pro etc) how should I factor in milage and age? Most of the ones advertised by Seven Seas look to be rather high in milage, but I know they are also highly durable. I have a poor sense of how long these motorcycles typically last.

The MD90s were built Extra tough because of their job... Better frames, suspension, electrics, engines etc (everything was strengthened and'or made with best quality parts.) They were also very well maintained! They were used for 3yrs, after which Honda frequently took them back, refurbished / updated them, and sent them back out. That is; a 2008 MD90 could feasibly have parts, or indeed started life, dating from the 1970s (prob' not tho'). The only down side; parts aren't quite so easy to come by, not all are regular Cub. However, if bought from Seven Seas, they can and will get them (if not available in UK). Small urgent parts can be sent air-mail, larger parts shipped in one of their containers,
How do I know... I'm in the process of buying one from them And I've spent 3 weeks scouring the web and Japanese sites for details / info on these little tanks. 30,000 miles... only 1/2 way to a minor rebuild if you treat it right. .
Oh, and if you're worried about speed; they can easily have sprockets changed and 17" CT wheels fitted. They are essentially a dif' version of the CT, only much tougher, and made, predominantly for road use, so no HI/LOW gearbox.