LEXMOTO TEMPEST GT 125 MOTORCYCLE REVIEW
The Lexmoto Tempest GT 125 is not on par with the European and Japanese 125s when it comes to performance and premium components. However, this doesn’t mean it is a bad motorcycle. In fact, with its price, it is the ideal option for the cash-strapped teen who wants to have a taste of retro motorcycling.
The Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 uses the already existing Tempest 125 engine that was inspired by a scrambler. The motorcycle is also the friendliest L-plate bike from Lexmoto. If you are a fan of thudding sounds from dinky exhaust pipes, contemporary style, and a minimalist engine that uses an air cooling system, the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 is a great option for you. It is ideal for leisure rides across the urban landscape or roughing through deserted back roads.
Lexmoto Tempest GT Brakes and Ride Quality
The Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 comes with a suspension that features twin shocks as well as a set of rigid conventional forks that measures about 37mm. While this suspension setup is not that much in terms of size, it does the job of gliding over bumps and potholes well. The only time you might feel it crashing hard is when you encounter large potholes.
This efficient shock absorber and suspension combined with a well-padded seat that adopts the café style. While the seat may look thin, it is ideal for a comfortable ride. It also bears mentioning that the seat comes with a small pillion perch housed underneath a plastic cowling.
Other physical features that contribute to the impressive ride quality that the motorcycle provides include its seat height and weight. The Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 has a kerb weight of 126kg as well as a seat height measuring 780mm. both of these features make the bike ideal for newbies and inexperienced bikers. Coupled with lightweight clutches and ergonomic foot pegs, the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 allows for easy and smooth maneuvering at low speeds on and off the bike.
However, what you might have a little problem with are the linked brakes. This is not to imply that the brakes are not good. They are good and function efficiently. The problem is that the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 uses a linked brake system instead of the ABS. This system is used to allow the bike to pass through European legislation.
The effect of the brake system is that when you apply the front brake, what you get is a slightly vague and conventional slowdown.
Lexmoto Tempest GT 125 Engine
The engine for the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 comes from the same factory that produced the engine for the leading bike brands in the UK. The Zongshen factory that manufactured the engine for this bike also makes that of the Fantic Caballero 500 set. It also signed a contract with Norton in 2017 to produce many batches of their 650 parallel-twin.
The engine of the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 is currently in the Euro 5 guise and features a single cylinder and a 125cc capacity with an air cooling system. This setup allows the bike to go up and below 60mph and also produce a gentle 9.7bhp at 8500rpm. Combined with the deep chugging sound that comes from the exhaust pipe, you get a retro bike that gives you reminiscences of the 1960s.
The aesthetic setup of the engine is a happy sight to behold. From below the rider’s right foot to the 10,000rpm limiter, you get a warbly soundtrack. From the top of the box downwards, you also get delightful pop on the overrun and this encourages aggressive downshifts where possible.
Reliability
There is an unwelcoming perception about motorcycles from China and the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 has had its fair share of it. However, the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 comes with a two-year part and labor warranty. And contrary to what many people believe, there are about 110 dealers in the UK who can carry out maintenance works on this bike.
Thus, with the support network available for this gen, it is safe to say that you are in good hands, regarding repairs and maintenance of the bike. You may notice an iffy sensor giving you some warnings after some hours on the saddle or a high-pitched squeak when you apply the front brakes. All of these are some of the few downsides of the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125.
Lexmoto Tempest GT 125 Price and Value
The price tag on the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 is priced at £2659.99. While this is 100 GBP over the price of the standard Tempest bike, the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 offers more to retro enthusiasts and this makes up for the price increase.
However, when compared to its competitors, the price and value offered by the Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 are impressive. Its closest competitor, the bog-standard Yamaha YS125 costs 3000 GBP. While the Yamaha comes with a stronger support network and slightly better specs, it doesn’t offer the charm and retro style offered by Lexmoto. Thus, the price difference is bogus considering the feature difference.
At Superbike Warehoue we offer fantastic finance options on all Lexmoto models including the Tempest 125 and Tempest GT 125. Nationwide delivery is available on all of our bikes too! Contact the sales team today to discuss on 01493 800 445
Lexmoto Tempest GT-125 Specs
- Frame Type: Tubular Steel
- Engine Size: 125cc
- Fuel Capacity: 13 liters
- Bike Weight: 126kg
- Seat Height: 780mm