MZ SX125 (2002 - 2005) Review

It's like Skoda cars; once you get your head around the concept of riding an MZ, you'll probably realise how good they can be. The MZ SX125 has a gutsy little 15bhp motor, a lanky lad sized chassis and decent off-road ability if you fancy it. Bit expensive compared to Far Eastern 125s, but well made.

Whether in Supermoto or SX guise, the MZ has the same chassis, with long  40mm forks and an adjustable monoshock at the rear end. It handles urban commuting and occasional off-roading very well, but the OE tyres are reportedly not so brilliant.

The MZ SX125's four stroke 125cc motor was designed and built by MZ themselves and offers a meaty 14bhp, which is enough to make a genuine 60-65mph cruising speed a reality. Many four stroke 125s cannot match that ability in the real world. The 6 speed gearbox is a bit clunky, otherwise it's a solid power unit.

OK, the MZ125 was never a cheap bike, but you get a well made machine, with an excellent reliability record and a two year warranty for your money. When your mates are sitting at home Googling for mythical spares for that `internet bargain' 125, you'll be off down the 8 til Late shop on your SM125.

All 125 machines are expensive brand new, but the upside is that resale values are fairly strong - the demand from trade and punters alike for a decent used 125 trailbike is huge. The MZ may lack a fashionable tank badge, but it does a great job. The SM version is still in production. Find an MZ SX125 for sale.

Mirrors that work! How thorough of the Germans to consider fitting details like a grabrail, wide mirrors and a decent 12.5 litre gas tank to the little MZ SX125. Braided steel brake lines, electric starter too. The only downside is the seat, which is plank-like, in both SX and SM models.