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Overall rating

With incredibly low running costs, modest but useful urban performance and funky retro looks, the Suzuki GN 125 is an ideal about-town motorcycle or learner bike.

• Related: Best 125cc motorbikes

Incredibly easy to ride, with a reliable engine and minimal maintenance, the Suzuki GN 125 is forgiving and a great confidence-builder. Lousy brakes and finish let it down a bit but, for a real world workhorse, it is a bargain.

• Related: Learn to ride a motorbike with MCN

Ride quality & brakes

The natural riding position means the Suzuki GN 125’s comfortable, even over longer distances. Suspension is on the soft side but manages to deal with everyday roads but the brakes (especially the front) lack bite. Handling’s light and the ride’s confidence-inspiring and stable. The GN 125 can get vibey at higher revs, however.

Engine

The Suzuki GN125 engine’s taken from the earlier GS 125 machine which came out in 1984, so it’s safe to say it’s proved itself. A simple but reliable single, it’s nippy enough in town although runs out of breath on the open road and hills can present a problem if you’re in a hurry. It can be stroppy when starting from cold. Needs plenty of revs.

Reliability & build quality

The Suzuki GN 125 is a tough little bike with a trusted engine and chassis. The finish isn’t marvellous: rust around welds and shoddy paintwork are common complaints. However, the styling’s cute and nice touches include chrome indicator stalks and mirrors. A lack of cheap plastic gives the Suzuki GN 125 some retro appeal.

Value vs rivals

A good, no-frills budget learner/commuter motorcycle. The best bargains can well be ex-training Suzuki GN 125s where any damage is cosmetic but engines are sound. Parts are cheap, insurance is a giveaway and mind-boggling fuel consumption figures mean the Suzuki GN125’s ideal as an inexpensive runaround. 

Equipment

The Suzuki GN125's clocks are simple and, bizarrely, there’s a gear indicator but no fuel gauge... There’s also a long, comfy seat, with plenty of pillion space, and a grabrail. The mirrors are good but almost too wide: Owners complain of hitting cars whilst filtering! A few car drivers complain too... There’s also a small tool kit with the Suzuki GN125.