Don't expect too much! (Honda CG125)

Member Name: norris

Product:	Honda CG125
Date:	28/05/02 (2613 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap, Robust, Perfect Learner

Disadvantages: Speedo unreliable, Lacks power

This was where it all began for me. Just hit 17, the world was my oyster. I took all my savings and headed straight for Motorcycle City, and got myself a beautiful (well it was at the time), red CG125.

I fell in love with it instantly. At just under £1400, the CG is an absolute bargain. It has high quality craftsmanship, and baing a honda it is nearly indestructable. It was a 2000 model, no electric start, and 5 speed constant mesh gearbox, which made it a breeze to ride.

Unfortunately, being young I wanted more than 70mph, and it was only a year before I sold it on for something more powerful (Honda NSR125 1991). But despite the CG's lack of power and style, it does the job. It doesn't pretend to be anything that it isn't, just a robust, good value commuter bike.

Unfortunately the newer models are being produced inTurkey, I think, and the build quality is supposed to have slipped.

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FAVOURITE ASPECTS OF THE CG125
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1) The price - One of these could last you for 20 years! And the insurance is really cheap for young riders

2) Learning Curve - Riding a motorcycle is a learning process, and I think there is no better place to start than on a CG125. They give young riders a solid machine to learn on, and develop their road awareness.

3) Reliabilty - In the 1 year that I owned mine, I never had ANY problems at all. A real workhorse that never complains.

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THE BAD BITS!!
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1) Speedo - I don't know if it was just on mine, but the speedo was hopeless! I got flashed by Gatso cameras twice whilst apparently under 30mph! Thank god for small number plates!

2) Power - 11bhp isn't really a lot, but i suppose that when you're learning you don't need much more.

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OVERALL
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I would definately recommend the
Honda CG125 to new riders, but my advice would be to move onto a more capable bike when you feel ready. My year on a CG helped me immensely, and gave me confidence on the road.

Summary: