ITALJET DRAGSTER 125 (1998 - 2003) Review

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Power: 14 bhp
Seat height: Medium (31.1 in / 790 mm)
Weight: Low (265 lbs / 120 kg)

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

Italian manufacture Italjet are best known for their futuristic-looking Dragster scooter, which came into the UK from 1998-2003.

With funky styling, a Ducati-type steel trellis frame and hub centre steering the Dragster has developed a cult following, and spawned dedicated websites like www.italjetdragster.com. There are still companies providing spares, accessories and tuning parts, like www.italjet.co.uk. You can still see modified versions out there scooter and even drag racing. There are three versions available: D50LC, D125LC and D180LC. You’ll need a full licence for the 180cc model.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Dragster has all the benefits of a conventional scooter, it can zip through traffic and it’s practical with its automatic gearbox, comfy riding position and underseat storage. Unlike a typical scooter the handling is tighter thanks to a stiff chassis, front and rear disc brakes and wide tyres. 

Engine

Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)

All engines are single cylinder liquid-cooled two-strokes with an electric start and CVT ‘twist-and-go’ transmission. There are three capacities: 49cc (2.4bhp@6000rpm), 123.54cc (14.5bhp@7500rpm), 175.75cc (19.4bhp@8000rpm).

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Dragster is well built but they’re getting old now and many will be showing their age, especially if used and abused by inexperienced riders. It’s still easy to get spares and tuning parts, though.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Available in the UK between 1998 and 2003, mint condition machines are slowly becoming collector’s items, with the 125 being the most sought after. Expect to pay around £1500 for a one in good nick. Find an Italjet Dragster for sale.

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Dragster is pretty special, as far as scooters go, it has lots of cool design touches, has Bimota hub centre-steering with a chunky front swingarm and exposed yellow-springed shocks. Buy parts for the Dragster in the MCN Shop. 

Specs

Engine size 49cc
Engine type Single-cylinder two-stroke
Frame type Tubular steel trellis
Fuel capacity 11 litres
Seat height 790mm
Bike weight 120kg
Front suspension Preload adjustable
Rear suspension Preload adjustable
Front brake 175m disc
Rear brake 240 disc
Front tyre size 120/70 11in
Rear tyre size 130/70 12

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 65 mpg
Annual road tax £25
Annual service cost -
New price -
Used price -
Insurance group 2 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term One year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 14 bhp
Max torque 8 ft-lb
Top speed 70 mph
1/4 mile acceleration -
Tank range 157 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

Model imported into the UK from 1998-2003

Other versions

Italjet Dragster D50LC
Italjet Dragster D125LC
Italjet Dragster D180LC

Owners' reviews for the ITALJET DRAGSTER 125 (1998 - 2003)

1 owner has reviewed their ITALJET DRAGSTER 125 (1998 - 2003) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your ITALJET DRAGSTER 125 (1998 - 2003)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Engine: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Reliability & build quality: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Value vs rivals: 5 out of 5 (5/5)
Equipment: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
5 out of 5 It-all-Jets
06 January 2010 by VRodVelo

I've now had my 180 for ten years and it hasn't missed a beat.1 new battery, 1 new front tyre, 2nd rear, no rust. recently uprated front bulbs for daytime riding 25w to 35w. 11,500 Kms. All the kids love to stop & look. Immac. Downside.? Struggles to start if left for some time even with fully charged battery. If battery is flat then kickstart is good standby. Have passed a bunch of ducati's down hill @85mph (indicated & head down-bum-up)Impressed them.P.S. photo to follow

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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