Buying Your First 125cc Motorcycle for CBT
Passed your CBT or thinking about it? Nice one! You’re about to enter the wild, wonderful world of two wheels – and we’re buzzing for you. This guide is your no-nonsense, down-to-earth companion to picking your first 125cc learner-legal motorcycle. We’ll cover what to look for, what to avoid, and which bikes are worth checking out for new riders taking their CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) and beyond.
Why Start with a 125cc Motorcycle?
If you’ve just passed your CBT, a 125cc bike is your best mate. It’s light, manageable, economical, and won’t bite your head off when you twist the throttle.
- Learner-legal – 125cc is the top end of what you can ride with a CBT on L-plates
- Fuel efficient – you’ll be laughing at the pump
- Cheap insurance & road tax
- Lightweight & confidence-building
Perfect for learning the ropes, building up your road sense, and having a blast doing it.
Things to Consider Before Buying Your First 125cc
Let’s be honest – your first bike’s not forever, but it needs to get you through your CBT and at least a year or two of solid riding. Here’s what to think about:
Budget Wisely
You’re not just buying a bike – you’ll need:
- Helmet (mandatory)
- Gloves & jacket (essential)
- Insurance
- Tax/MOT if buying used
- Security (disc lock, chain, tracker)
A decent 125cc will set you back £1,500–£4,000 depending on whether you go new or used.
New vs Used
- New: Warrantied, shiny, and ready to roll – but more expensive.
- Used: Better value, but check for signs of damage, dodgy maintenance, or previous learner abuse.
Ease of Maintenance
You don’t want to spend more time spannering than riding – look for bikes with:
- Reliable engines
- Cheap and available parts
- Simple mechanics – ideal for learning basic DIY servicing
Security & Insurance
Sadly, 125s are theft magnets. Get a decent chain, disc lock, and if possible, a tracker. It helps with peace of mind and lowers your insurance quote.
Best 125cc Motorcycles for New Riders
Here’s a solid line-up of 125cc bikes that are beginner-friendly, reliable, and won’t empty your wallet.
1. Honda CB125F
Bulletproof reliability, cheap running costs, and proper Honda build quality. A top pick for new riders and CBT commuters.
2. Yamaha YS125
Smooth, easy to ride, and known for its comfort and dependability. A favourite in the learner category.
3. KTM Duke 125
If you want a bit of flair, this aggressive naked bike has sharp looks, modern tech, and great handling – just at a higher price point.
4. Lexmoto LXR 125
Budget-friendly sports styling with decent performance. Chinese-built but with a growing UK fanbase and parts network.
5. Suzuki GSX-S125
Lightweight, nimble, and fun – the GSX has proper Suzuki DNA and is well-suited to city riding or B-road fun.
Final Tips Before You Ride Off
- Do a proper pre-ride inspection – tyres, lights, chain, fluids.
- Learn basic maintenance – oil checks, chain tension, brake pads.
- Ride with confidence, not arrogance – you’re still learning!
- Don’t skimp on gear – decent kit could save your skin.
- Join a community – local ride-outs, online forums, or check out Lid Life to swap stories and get advice from real riders.
Whatever you choose, your first bike is something you’ll never forget. So pick something that fits you, makes you smile, and gets you itching to ride every chance you get.
Welcome to the road, rider – just mind the oil stains!
