Brixton BX 125 (2018-2019) Review: A Versatile Entry-Level Contender
Introduction
The Brixton BX 125 series represents an intriguing proposition in the 125cc segment, blending retro-modern aesthetics with practical engineering. Designed to cater to new riders and urban commuters alike, this generation (2018-2019) offers variants ranging from naked bikes to enduro models, all sharing a common DNA of approachability and style. After spending a week with multiple variants – including the BX 125 R, Haycroft, and X models – it's clear Brixton aimed to create motorcycles that feel larger than their displacement suggests.
Design & Styling
The BX 125's neo-retro design immediately stands out in parking lots. With its round LED headlight (a rarity in this class during its production years), teardrop fuel tank, and minimalist bodywork, it channels 1970s café racer vibes while maintaining modern proportions. The naked R version features clean handlebars and a slim profile (730mm width), while the Haycroft and X enduro models add purposeful aggression with raised fenders and knobby tires.
Color options varied by model: - Naked R: Vibrant red/silver combinations - Haycroft: Subtle blue/grey earth tones - X variants: Military-inspired olive green or black
The 770mm seat height (30.3") makes it accessible for shorter riders, though the slightly scooped saddle provides limited room for adjustment. Fit and finish surpasses expectations for this category, with consistent panel gaps and quality switchgear. The digital instrument cluster (another class-above feature) provides clear readouts for speed, fuel level, and gear position.
Performance & Handling
Engine Characteristics
At its core lies a 124.8cc air-cooled single producing 11.1 HP (8.1 kW) at 9,000 RPM. While these numbers seem modest, the fuel-injected mill delivers its power with surprising eagerness.
Key observations: - 0-60 km/h (0-37 mph) comes up briskly in urban environments - Power plateau begins around 85 km/h (53 mph) - Top speed indicated 105 km/h (65 mph) with rider tucked - Remarkable fuel efficiency: 2.7L/100km (87 mpg) observed
The 5-speed transmission shifts with positive engagement, though the clutch lever requires moderate effort in stop-and-go traffic. Vibration management deserves praise – only above 8,000 RPM does the single-cylinder buzz become intrusive through the rubber-mounted footpegs.
Chassis Dynamics
Naked R Model: - 1040mm height and 1920mm length create nimble urban manners - Neutral handlebar position allows easy low-speed maneuvers - Suspension (telescopic fork + dual shocks) tuned for comfort over bumps
Enduro Models (Haycroft/X): - 1135mm height provides 200mm+ ground clearance - Wire-spoked wheels with block-pattern tires competent on light trails - Longer suspension travel (120mm front/110mm rear) soaks up ruts
All variants share the same 134kg (295 lb) dry weight, making them easy to manage for new riders. The 14/46 sprocket combination strikes a good balance between acceleration and highway cruising ability.
Competition
The BX 125 faced stiff competition in the 125cc class:
Honda CB125F
- Advantages: Legendary reliability, 148 mpg efficiency
- Disadvantages: Dated styling, drum rear brake
- BX Edge: Superior tech (LED lighting, digital dash), more engaging ride
Yamaha YS125
- Advantages: 15% more power, Yamaha build quality
- Disadvantages: Higher seat (800mm), bland design
- BX Edge: Retro appeal, better suspension for rough roads
Suzuki DR-Z125 (Off-road comparison)
- Advantages: True dirt bike pedigree, lighter weight
- Disadvantages: Less street-legal practicality
- BX Edge: Dual-purpose flexibility, fuel injection reliability
Where the Brixton truly shines is in style-per-dollar ratio. While competitors focused on pure utilitarianism, the BX 125 series offered character – something that resonates with riders wanting more than basic transportation.
Maintenance
The BX 125's simple mechanical layout makes it ideal for home maintenance:
Key Service Points
- Oil Changes
- 1L of 10W-40 (SAE JASO MA2 recommended)
-
MOTOPARTS.store recommendation: Motul 7100 10W-40
-
Chain Maintenance
- 120-link chain requires regular lubrication
- Optimal tension: 25-35mm (1-1.4") free play
-
Upgrade option: DID Gold Chain Kit
-
Brake System
- DOT 4 fluid changes every 2 years
- Front/rear disc pads wear evenly with moderate use
-
Performance upgrade: EBC Sintered Pads
-
Tire Pressures
- 2.5 bar (36 psi) front/rear for street use
- Off-road: Drop to 1.8 bar (26 psi) for better traction
Common Wear Items
- Spark plugs (0.6-0.7mm gap) every 12,000 km
- Air filter every 8,000 km (upgrade to K&N Reusable Filter)
- Clutch cable lubrication every oil change
The air-cooled design eliminates coolant system concerns, though riders in hot climates should monitor oil temperatures during sustained high-speed runs.
Living With the BX 125
Urban Commuting
- Fuel range: 14L tank provides 500km+ (310 mile) range
- Narrow profile slips through traffic effortlessly
- Upright riding position offers good visibility
Weekend Adventures
- Aftermarket luggage racks available
- 55kg cargo capacity suitable for lightweight touring
- LED lighting excellent for night riding
Customization Potential
- Classic styling lends itself to café racer conversions
- Popular mods:
- Low-profile handlebars
- Retro brown leather seats
- Shorty exhaust systems (Arrow offers compatible slip-ons)
Conclusion
The Brixton BX 125 generation (2018-2019) succeeds as a style-focused all-rounder that doesn't compromise on practicality. While not the fastest or most technically advanced in its class, it offers something more valuable for many riders – personality. The variants provide genuine choice between street-focused and light off-road capabilities, all wrapped in a package that feels more premium than its specs suggest.
For owners looking to enhance their BX 125 experience, MOTOPARTS.store offers a comprehensive range of: - Performance upgrades - Maintenance kits - Custom accessories - OEM-equivalent replacement parts
Whether you're keeping your Brixton stock or transforming it into a personalized machine, this 125cc platform rewards those who appreciate motorcycles with character over clinical efficiency.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 8 kW | 11.0 hp |
| Fuel system: | Fuel Injection |
| Max power @: | 9000 rpm |
| Displacement: | 125 ccm |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Air-cooled |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Dry weight: | 134 |
| Seat height: | 770 mm (30.3 in) |
| Overall width: | 910 mm (35.8 in) |
| Overall height: | 1105 mm (43.5 in) |
| Overall length: | 2020 mm (79.5 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 14.0 L (3.7 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 120 |
| Rear sprocket: | 46 |
| Front sprocket: | 14 |
| Maintainance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 10W40 |
| Break fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.6–0.7 mm |
| Engine oil capacity: | 1.0 |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Wheels: | Wire spoked (on some models) |
| Rear brakes: | Single disc |
| Front brakes: | Single disc |
| Rear suspension: | Dual shocks |
| Front suspension: | Telescopic fork |
