Of all the motorbikes built in the past 30 years, none has been built in such huge numbers nor had such an impact as Honda's CG 125. This elegantly simple machine, introduced in 1976, has won worldwide acclaim for its rugged reliability.
On every continent, with the possible exception of Antarctica, the CG 125 is getting the job done, without fuss or bother, running reliably, often thriving on near-total neglect for years on end.
Not so many years ago, before the internet and broadband made document transmission virtually instantaneous, half or more of Dublin's courier bikes were CG 125s. Most were being ridden flat-out day after day, followed by weekends of utter neglect. Running out of petrol or a puncture were the only ways to stop them.
In some parts of the world a CG 125 is more of a status symbol than a Harley-Davidson, BMW or Ducati in the west. No machine has been so complimented by the flattery of imitation. Far Eastern makes such as Fosti, Hartford, Kangda, Kymco and Vulcan produce CG 125 clones.
The CG 125 is a real motorcycle, albeit of small capacity. Its small engine belies the fact that it is quite powerful and brisk for its class. Even experienced riders accustomed to more sophistication have been surprised at its brisk acceleration and agile and sure-footed handling. Its compact proportions and easy, forgiving operation have given learner riders much needed confidence, along with the exhilaration of biking.
Over time, other bikes in the same class and price bracket have gained popularity at the CG's expense. Until its makeover for 2004, the CG relied on a front drum brake and lacked the almost universal electric starter. Today, 28 years down the road, it has been brought up-to-date. The CG has always been targeted at new riders, local commuters and those seeking value for money.
For 2004 it gets an all-new electric starter eliminating the earlier kickstart. It's been given a hydraulic 240mm front disk brake, giving much better braking.
There has been a small boost in usable power. Emissions have been brought within the current EURO-2 regulations with a new air suction valve. Up to this, the CG's styling was utterly conventional, virtually timeless. Now new lines bring it bang up to date with a modern look in keeping with its larger brethren.
The handlebars have been raised 16mm. Fuel capacity is up from 12.8 to 13.5 litres. Pillion footrests, previously on the rear swinging arm, are now properly mounted on the frame. A Neimann-style steering head lock is standard.
The 2004 model still comes with a centre stand as standard, but there is provision for an optional sidestand costing about €30 extra.
Now with a maintenance-free battery, larger 155w alternator and 22mm piston-valve carburettor with an electric heater which cuts in when temperatures falls below 10°C, starting has become monotonously reliable.
It wasn't until the day of our test that we realised that all of 25 years had elapsed since the last time we rode a CG 125. The engine runs with sewing machine smoothness. Keeping up with the faster traffic flow outside the city means it has to be kept on the boil all the time, but it does so without the slightest complaint. The new front disk brake is a very definite, a welcome improvement.
A delightfully nippy machine, the CG 125 is without equal in congested conditions. It has a mere 1.9metre turning circle, which means it can turn in virtually its own length.
Fuel consumption is around 120mpg - even more if you can resist keeping it on the boil which it seems to enjoy so much.
Priced at €3,068, with a low insurance cost and legendary reliability, the CG 125 has to be just about the best value for money on two wheels. It's also great fun.
TechSpec
ENGINE: 124.1cc air-cooled 4-stroke OHV single; 9.5:1 compression; max power 8.1kW at 9,000rpm; torque 9.8Nm at 7,000rpm; 5-speed gearbox; chain drive
CHASSIS: Diamond pressed steel; front - 27mm telescopic fork, 115mm travel; rear - swinging arm with dual dampers and 5-step adjustment, 80mm travel; brakes - front 240mm hydraulic disc, single piston calliper; rear 130mm drum, 18" spoked wheels
DIMENSIONS: Seat height 781mm; wheelbase 1,297mm; kerb weight 126kg; fuel 13.5 litres (including 2.3-litre reserve)
PRICE: € 3,068 - 12 months warranty