Aprilia RS50

Advantages: Nippy, good handling, looks awesome!

Disadvantages: Reliability, annoyingly hold their value

The Aprilia RS50 Motorbike is the stuff of a 16 year olds dreams. It has the look and performance of a proper sports bike.

The Aprilia RS50 has 6hp and can be ridden by anyone aged 16 or older who has passed their CBT in the last 2 years or who is in possession of a full motorcycle license. It is started electrically and has 6 gears. Being of european origin the speedo and milometer are both in Kilometers.

==== Cost ====
Depending on how new an RS50 you want prices can range from £3500 for a brand new one to less than £400 for one that is more than 10 years old. Again this could change depending on how well looked after they are. Mine was bought 2 years ago and was a 2000 reg which I picked up for around £1000. Overall it was in fairly good condition when I got it just a few scrapes.

==== Performance ====
For a 50cc engine I must say the performance is pretty good, if you have it de-restricted then the top speed that you will reach is approximately 70 mph. NOTE: If you are only riding this on a CBT then it must be restricted to 30mph, riding it faster that is illegal and can result in you having your bike taken from you and you could lose your license.

==== Running Cost ====
The running costs for these is relatively low, my first year insurance premium came to roughly £350 for third part fire and theft cover. Tax for the bike is a lowly £21 which is great, this is due to the small engine size and low co2 output. The fuel economy is great and filling the tank costs about £7.50 depending on how high you rev it will dictate how long the fuel will last but you will still get pretty good milage.

==== Reliability ====

Overall reliability is average, I did have quite a few problems with mine but for the most part it was good, parts are relatively cheap but aren't THAT cheap, you will have to pay a bit for labour.

==== Overall thoughts ====

Overall if you are after a sporty number that has the looks then the RS 50 is for you, I find they look so much nicer than the generic scooters that you see whizzing around, having one of these made me the envy of my school!

Summary: 4 Stars

Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator (1998-current)

 

 

 

MCN overall verdict

The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator’s a top little bike to hone your skills on with a responsive, smooth motor and easy handling. The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is never going to win any races but that’s not what it’s about: it’ll haul you from A to B with little fuss, enabling you to enjoy the ride.

Engine

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Owners' rating

Learner legal but there’s only just enough to propel the Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator around. The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is ideal for town riding, and the engine really does pull well right through the rev range, but launching yourself down a motorway could prove optimistic. Still, the Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is smooth and predictable and, best of all, very reliable.

Ride and Handling

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Owners' rating

The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is great for novices: everything’s easy to control with no nasty surprises. The throttle’s gentle but responsive, as are the clutch and gearbox. Combined with a great turning circle and low seat height, the Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is easily manoeuvred, even by nervous novices. The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator's brakes and handling are great and it’s very well-balanced.

Equipment

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The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator looks larger than it is (from certain angles, at least), with an ample seat for two, a plush pillion backrest and foot-forward controls for the rider. The ignition’s in a funny place (down below/in front of the fuel tank) and there’s no screen but the Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator's spoked wheels and chrome-housed, tank top dash certainly look the part.

Quality and Reliability

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The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is a well built, if fairly basic, machine. Bodily, there’s plenty of chrome to keep shiny and, if cared for, it should last well. The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator's engine is superb at what it does and few owners have problems with it whilst the front brake is particularly adept. The Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator is relatively low on frills but nicely put together.

Value

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The price of Kawasaki EL125 Eliminators just seems to keep coming down. It’s great value, is categorised in a low insurance group and fuel consumption means big savings on the forecourt. Rivals, Honda’s VT125C Shadow and Suzuki’s VL125 Intruder, are both considerably more expensive than the Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator but the Suzuki GZ125 Marauder is the serious competition, at the same price.

Insurance

Insurance group: 5

Model History

1998: Kawasaki EL125 Eliminator launched (it’s sometimes referred to as a “BN125”). Only minor/colour changes since.

Other Versions

None.

Specifications

Top speed	65mph
1/4-mile acceleration	21 secs
Power	12bhp
Torque	7ftlb
Weight	135kg
Seat height	680mm
Fuel capacity	13 litres
Average fuel consumption	60mpg
Tank range	172 miles
Insurance group	5

Engine size	124cc
Engine specification	2v single cylinder, 5 gears
Frame	Steel double cradle
Front suspension adjustment	None
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload
Front brakes	250mm disc
Rear brake	Drum
Front tyre size	90/90 x 17
Rear tyre size	130/90 x 15

Piaggio NRG Power (1999-current)

  

Engine

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Owners' rating

The twist-and-go 50cc two-stroke does little more than propel the Piaggio NRG forward as slowly as the law dictates. Derestricted the speedo will show 55mph plus – it’s a typically optimistic Italian gauge though, so real speed is around 45-50mph.

Ride and Handling

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Small wheels and cheap suspension make the NRG very nervous – you have to ride it for a while to adjust your input levels before it can be ridden smoothly. Bumps and holes upset it – the tiny wheels can’t ride over any kind of imperfections. It’s very nimble through traffic and easy to manoeuvre at low speed – ideal for the CBT.

Equipment

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It doesn’t have much – there’s a rev counter that serves no useful purpose on a twist and go, a clock, an underseat storage area and a hook to hang shopping bags on. It has upside down forks, but they’re crude and only for show.

Quality and Reliability

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Piaggio build quality is sub-par anyway – as one of the cheapest bikes in the range, the NRG is one of the most susceptible to abuse. The finish is cheap - the paint rubs through, alloy parts corrode and steel parts rust – the exhaust especially. Breakdowns aren’t unusual either. You’ll need the warranty.

Value

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Most teenagers treat the Piaggio NRG as a throwaway item – which in reality, they are. They’re not cheap, but there is a queue of teenagers ready to splash Dad’s cash on one, buying them solely on image. Be prepared to loose a big chunk of value as the condition deteriorates, and incentivised new bikes push the value out of used scoots.

Insurance

Insurance group: 4

Model History

Piaggio NRG Extreme – 1999-2002. Air-cooled sports scooter, looks dated now and its unlikely any still around will be in presentable condition.
Piaggio NRG MC3 Air - 2002-2004. The second generation air-cooled NRG.
Piaggio NRG MC3  - 2002-2004 – The liquid-cooled version is faster in full power form.

Other Versions

Piaggio NRG Silver Bullet – White/red special edition is mechanically unchanged.

Specifications

Top speed	31mph
1/4-mile acceleration	secs
Power	4bhp
Torque	2.9ftlb
Weight	95kg
Seat height	795mm
Fuel capacity	6.5 litres
Average fuel consumption	mpg
Tank range	miles
Insurance group	4

Engine size	49cc
Engine specification	Two-stroke, liquid-cooled single. CVT transmission.
Frame	Tubular steel
Front suspension adjustment	None
Rear suspension adjustment	None
Front brakes	220mm disc
Rear brake	175 mm disc
Front tyre size	120/70-13
Rear tyre size	140/60-13

Piaggio Vespa ET4 125

Undeniably stylish retro scoot that's hard to dislike - get the Mod look without having to master an awkward twist-grip gearchange. It has a steel body that forms part of the chassis, so if you drop it repairs can be expensive. But decent suspension gives a smooth ride over bumpy city streets, plus it's 125cc motor is good for 60mph and 100mpg.  

yamaha YZF-R125 (2008- current)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Engine     

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The Yamaha YZF-R125’s all-new engine has a longer stroke than other 125 motorcycles to give more torque, but it’s still no arm-ripper. Instead, the YZF-R125 gives flexibility two-stroke rivals like the Aprilia RS125 can only dream of. The Yamaha will crawl along at walking pace with the clutch fully engaged, and opening the throttle will give smooth drive right to the redline. It’s good for an indicated 80mph, which will satisfy most riders stepping up from a moped.

Ride and Handling

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For a motorcycle that costs a shade less than £3000, has a steel frame and unadjustable basic suspension, the Yamaha YZF-R125’s bloody good. The forks and shock have controlled damping which allows you to chuck the bike around back roads, but they’re not jarring on rough city streets.

Equipment

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The Yamaha YZF-R125’s digital dash, Brembo brakes, under-slung GP-style exhaust and a proper sized R6-inspired body is the stuff of wet dreams when you’re 17. The full-size body makes it reasonably comfortable too – the footpegs aren’t too high, the handlebars are mounted on the fork tops so your wrists don’t take a pounding and the seat isn’t massively hard either. The seat is reasonably high though – shorties may be more comfortable on the Honda.

Quality and Reliability

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The Yamaha YZF-R125 is built in Europe, and although it doesn’t have a top-level finish, it looks sturdy enough. Previous Yamaha/Minarelli engines have been strong, and there’s nothing to suggest this new water-cooled lump will be anything different.

Value

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The Yamaha YZF-R125’s is a great introduction to sports bikes without the drawbacks of two-stroke rivals – but so is the Honda CBR125R for £300 less – if you pay RRP, which many don’t. The Yamaha is better suited to larger riders, is more composed when you thrash it and looks better, but otherwise they offer the same thing. It’s your decision whether it’s worth the extra. Find a Yamaha R125 for sale

Insurance

Insurance group: 6
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Model History

2008: Yamaha YZF-R125 launched.

Other Versions

None.

Specifications

Top speed	75mph
1/4-mile acceleration	secs
Power	14.6bhp
Torque	9ftlb
Weight	127kg
Seat height	818mm
Fuel capacity	13.8 litres
Average fuel consumption	52mpg
Tank range	150 miles
Insurance group	6

Engine size	124cc
Engine specification	4v four-stroke liquid-cooled single, six gears
Frame	Steel beam
Front suspension adjustment	None
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload only
Front brakes	Brembo two-piston sliding caliper, 292mm disc
Rear brake	Single-piston caliper, 230mm disc
Front tyre size	100/80-17
Rear tyre size	130/70-17

yamaha FS1-E 50cc

The Yamaha FS1-E, or more commonly known as a "fizzy" was the must have moped for 16 year olds from it's UK introduction in 1972 to the late 70's, when in 1978 the government introduced new legislation to restrict the maximum speed of moped to 30mph. I include myself in that category and was the proud owner of 2 fizzy's at the time. It had the best styling compared to Honda, Suzuki, Gileras etc and was by far the most reliable. The Yamaha FS1-E has a 49cc single cylinder 2-stroke air cooled rotary valved engine with a four-speed gearbox. It originally was only available in on colour, Candy Gold, and this was know as the SS model. The SS stood for "Sixteener Special". In 1974 a second colour was introduced, Popsicle Purple and the model name on the side panel was changed to the now infamous "FS1-E". The model was FS1 and the suffix "E" stood for England. Yamaha changed the colours over the years (Baja Brown, Competition Yellow etc) and introduced various improvements such as a front disc brake (FS1-E DX.) and a autolube model with a 2-stroke oil tank and oil injection (so you wouldn't have to manually mix fule and 2-stroke oil any more.)
The FS1-E has enjoyed a renaissance for the past few years as the original 16 year old owners have now become 40+-year olds with some spare cash are looking to relive their youth by buying and restoring these wonderful classics. Such is now the demand for fizzys, the prices for both the mopeds themselves and the spare parts have risen sharply with some rare early concourse restored models fetching up to £3,000. They therefore now also make a very good investment for the future. eBay is the main place to buy and sell your fizzy and to source those all imprtant spare parts.
I am also pleased to say that the FS1-E also has a new generation of owners with many 16-year olds opting to own an old classic fizzy rather than opting to buy a modern scooter, and thus keeping the fizzy spirit alive going forwards.

There have been various enthusiasts clubs and websites set uo to cater for this renewed interest and a Google web search for "Yamaha FS1-E", will find the main ones and you'll get the links to the rest from there. Try also fs1e.co.uk, where there is lots of info, photos and an excellent forum with great banter amongst 1,600 fizzy owners and enthusiasts.

In total there were about 200,000 produced for the UK market and it is estimated that only 2,000-3,000 still exist so finding one in a barn or old lockup is becoming increasingly rare. I hope this review has given you a taster of what the FS1-E is and you now go off and find out the rest and maybe I have tempted you into trying to find one for yourself. 

yamaha ybr 125cc

MCN overall verdict        

Not the most stylish kid on the block but, as budget, basic learners go, the Yamaha YBR125 offers pretty good value for money. Gentle, easy going and practical, it’ll see you through your test and, if you want, beyond. The Yamaha YBR125 is best as a city ride, there’s enough poke to wind you through rush hour traffic and the handling’s not bad either.

 

Engine

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The Yamaha YBR125's air-cooled four stroke is pretty nippy, with enough power to propel you around town or along easy A roads at a fairly decent pace. The Yamaha YBR125's top whack’s around 70mph but cruising at 55mph is infinitely more comfortable. Smooth fuel injection helps you along and there’s a choke (under the tank, unfortunately) for those cold starts.

Ride and Handling

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The Yamaha YBR125’s very light and boasts surprisingly good handling. Nothing too mad: it’s just forgiving and easy to practice your cornering on. The suspension’s basic but effective while the Yamaha YBR125's brakes are good, especially at the front. It even sounds pretty fruity.  There’s kick, as well as electric, start.

Equipment

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Analogue clocks and a fuel gauge make up the Yamaha YBR125's basic but useful dash; there’s a centrestand, luggage rack and a grabrail for pillions. The seat on the Yamaha YBR125 is pretty comfy, even over distance, but the mirror stalks are a bit short for decent rear vision. Cast alloy wheels look smart and there’s an aftermarket screen available from Yamaha for when the elements get too much.

Quality and Reliability

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The Yamaha YBR125 is build-to-a-budget and, to an extent, it shows. Owners talk of dodgy indicator wiring and occasionally sticky gearboxes but, overall, they seem happy, especially when the Yamaha YBR125 costs so little to buy. The engine’s solid, proven and reliable.

Value

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Cheap to buy, very cheap to insure and fuel consumption’s astonishing. Things rarely go wrong with Yamaha YBR125s but, if they do, parts are inexpensive and easy to find plus the Yamaha YBR125 is simple to work on yourself, saving even more money. Up against the likes of Honda’s legendary CG125 (which is the same price). Find a Yamaha YBR125 for sale

Insurance

Insurance group: 4
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Model History

2005: Yamaha YBR125 launched. No changes since.

Other Versions

None.

Specifications

Top speed	70mph
1/4-mile acceleration	19 secs
Power	10bhp
Torque	7ftlb
Weight	113kg
Seat height	780mm
Fuel capacity	12 litres
Average fuel consumption	90mpg
Tank range	240 miles
Insurance group	4

Engine size	124cc
Engine specification	2v single cylinder, 5 gears
Frame	Steel diamond
Front suspension adjustment	None
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload
Front brakes	245mm disc
Rear brake	Drum
Front tyre size	2.75 x 18
Rear tyre size	90/90 x 18