2021 KAWASAKI NINJA 125

Why Buy the Kawasaki Ninja 125?

The Kawasaki Ninja 125 is an appealing option for new riders in the UK, offering a taste of the sporty Ninja heritage in a manageable and accessible package. It's built to satisfy the A1 licence requirements, making it a perfect first motorcycle for those aged 17 and over. The bike boasts sharp, aggressive styling that mirrors its larger brethren, ensuring you'll look the part whether you're commuting or enjoying a weekend jaunt. Beyond its looks, the Ninja 125 is designed to be forgiving and easy to handle. Its lightweight chassis and comfortable, upright riding position make it unintimidating for beginners. The 125cc engine, while not a powerhouse, delivers peppy performance suitable for urban riding and can hold its own on slower B-roads. It’s a sensible choice for practicality, with decent fuel economy and low running costs. If you're looking for a stylish, fun, and practical introduction to motorcycling that won't break the bank, the Ninja 125 is definitely worth considering.

UK Price Guide (GBP)

The price of a used Kawasaki Ninja 125 in the UK can vary significantly depending on its age, condition, mileage, and any optional extras fitted. Here's a general guide:

Model Year	Typical Price Range (GBP)
2019-2021	£2,800 - £3,500
2022-Present	£3,500 - £4,500

*Note: These prices are for private sales and may be higher at dealerships. Always factor in potential additional costs like insurance and first service fees.*

Specifications

The Kawasaki Ninja 125 is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine. Key specifications include:

• Engine: 125cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled
• Bore x Stroke: 58.0 x 47.2 mm
• Compression Ratio: 11.8:1
• Fuel System: Fuel injection
• Clutch: Wet, multi-plate
• Transmission: 6-speed
• Max Power: Approximately 14.8 bhp (11 kW)
• Front Suspension: 41mm Upside-down forks
• Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak with adjustable preload
• Front Brake: 290mm disc with 4-piston caliper
• Rear Brake: 190mm disc with 1-piston caliper
• Tyres (Front): 100/80-17
• Tyres (Rear): 130/70-17
• Seat Height: Approximately 785 mm
• Weight (Kerb): Approximately 148 kg
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 11 litres

Common Issues

The Kawasaki Ninja 125 is generally a reliable motorcycle, especially given its beginner-focused nature. However, as with any used vehicle, there are a few things to look out for:

• Chain and Sprockets: Regular maintenance is key. Worn chains and sprockets can lead to poor power delivery and premature wear. Check for stiffness or excessive slack.
• Brake Wear: Pads and discs will wear over time, particularly with heavy use. Ensure brakes are functioning effectively and there are no signs of excessive scoring or warping on the discs.
• Tyres: Check for legal tread depth and any signs of cracking or uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues or poor riding habits.
• Electricals: While rare, ensure all lights, indicators, and the horn work correctly. Check for any corrosion on battery terminals.
• Cosmetic Damage: Look for scratches or dents, particularly on fairings and handlebars, which can indicate a previous low-speed drop.

Running Costs

The Ninja 125 is designed to be economical to run, making it an attractive proposition for younger riders or those on a budget.

• Fuel Economy: Expect figures of around 80-100 mpg depending on riding style and conditions.
• Insurance: Group 1 or 2 insurance is typical, making it relatively affordable for new riders. Always get quotes before purchasing.
• VED (Road Tax): Currently £22 per year for bikes registered from April 2017 onwards.
• Servicing: Scheduled servicing intervals are usually around every 4,000 miles or annually. Costs will vary depending on the complexity of the service, but general servicing should be affordable.

Variants

The Kawasaki Ninja 125 has been available in a few colour schemes since its introduction, but there haven't been any significant mechanical or styling variants. The primary difference you'll find between models is the original factory paintwork. Common colours include:

• Lime Green / Ebony (Kawasaki's signature colours)
• Metallic Spark Black
• Candy Lime Green / Metallic Carbon Grey

When viewing potential purchases, the colour is the main variant to consider, alongside any aftermarket modifications or accessories that might have been added by previous owners.