The MANY reasons why the CSC SG250 Scrambler BEATS the iconic "Trail" CT125!
Honda introduced the CT90 trail bike back in the 1960’s. The marketing was inspired. They never attempted to market the CT90 to hardcore bikers. Instead, they targeted campers, hunters, and ranchers. The Honda CT90 was a motorcycle that promised ACCESS to adventures.
Fast forward 60 years and the original Honda CT90 is now the CT125.
The basic design remains the same. We still relate to the "Call of the Wild". The CT125 remains one of Honda's most popular models, and motorcycle riding is STILL fun!
BUT - does the Honda "Trail" deliver on its promises? WHY is the Honda CT125 the motorcycle its owners love to HATE?
Why are CT125 forums and owner’s groups on Facebook full of negative posts?
Why does it seem like HALF of CT125 owners want to sell, including some like-new bikes with less than 100 miles? If the CT125 motorcycle is the pinnacle of versatility, what are owners (and prospective owners) complaining about?
Top complaints about the Honda CT125:
Number 1: Lack of power.
If you want to ride on secondary highways to your outdoor destination, you need power to compete with traffic.
If you are venturing off the pavement you are going to experience soft roads and sharp hills.
If you want to carry camping gear - or just a picnic lunch - you are going to need a responsive engine.
If you are the "average" size American, you are simply going to need MORE than 125cc's!
This complaint amazes me since all CT125 owners KNEW that this cycle has ONLY EIGHT horsepower! For comparison, my Honda walk-behind LAWNMOWER has a 170cc motor. And yet these owners are dismayed that the 125cc motorcycle won't top 45 miles per hour?
Combine the underpowered cycle with the quirky, unnatural transmission and shifting pattern. Honda designed the CT125 (and Super Cub) without a clutch lever to appeal to non-motorcycle riders. The transmission shifting is not intuitive, especially for experienced riders. The 4-speed shift pattern doesn't adequately cover the speed range, and the odd heel/toe lever adds to the awkwardness. (Note that the ORIGINAL CT90 had a Hi/Lo sub-transmission that is not available on the modern CT125.)
Number 2: POOR trail capabilities. Despite the "Trail" name, the CT125 is woefully inadequate off the paved road.
The small and narrow 17" wheels and street tires don't provide needed traction. The rims and fenders make installation of true dual sport tires impossible. Adding new tires adds parts and labor costs to the already high purchase price.
The seating position is upright, like sitting in a chair with your legs out in front. ALL the weight is on your butt. No saddle can absorb all the bumps and cracks in the pavement or trail.
It seems that the compact CT125 was just not designed with larger Americans in mind. Anyone over 5'6" knocks their knees on the handlebars. You can't slide back because of the small saddle - and the ridiculous, painful raised bar at the front of the rear rack!
The seating position makes the weight distribution uneven front to back, impacting steering control on and off road.
The large rear rack encourages riders to add more weight, further adding to the imbalance.
The foot peg position is designed for a flat-footed, for a seated rider. The position makes standing uncomfortable for anyone over 5 feet tall - with handlebars that are too close and too low.
More than any other motorcycle model, the owners of the Honda CT125
suffer from Buyer's Remorse.
As a reader of the GreatOutThere blog, you know that I am VERY supportive of riding smaller, minimalist motorcycles. Smaller motorcycles have MANY advantages!
But I also advocate using the right too for the job. The Honda Trail CT125 marketing overpromises and under-delivers!
Sadly, TOO many Honda CT125 owners purchase the little cycle for nostalgia. It is cute and retro, despite being impractical. Even worse, some BUY the CT125 without even taking a test ride! (Not that all Honda dealers ALLOW test rides...)
What is the alternative? Is there an economical motorcycle that is also affordable? Is there a motorcycle that is fun to ride, but also comfortable for adults? Is there an "all-road" scrambler motorcycle with the features that overcome the deficiencies of the Trail CT125?
CSC Motorcycles is dedicated to delivering "Motorcycle riding fun that you can afford!" One of the most popular CSC motorcycle models has delivered riding fun for THOUSANDS of riders across North America: The SG250 Scrambler.
The CSC SG250 Scrambler brings us back to our motorcycle riding roots.
The SG250 Scrambler is handsome while minimalist and rugged. It is equipped with ALL the essentials and intentionally avoids high-tech complications. The SG250 is equipped with a proven 230cc, air-cooled counter-balanced engine that delivers DOUBLE the horsepower of the Honda #CT125 (and other mini moto models.)
Would you like TWICE the power and torque PLUS a LOWER price than the Honda Trail CT125? The CSC SG250 Scrambler has MANY MORE advantages:
The CSC SG250 Scrambler costs LESS than the CT125. You SAVE $1,000 to over $1,500!
Like all things, inflation has caught up to the Honda CT125 and the current 2024 MSRP is now $4,099.00. Over the MSRP, Honda dealers add $300 for incoming freight, plus several hundred dollars more for set up and paperwork fees. The “out the door” price ends up totaling close to $5,000, NOT including taxes and license! $5,000 is "serious" money and that cuts into the “fun factor” of this little motorcycle.
In comparison, the CSC SG250 Scrambler has a MSRP of only $2,995.00 including a One-Year warranty! (Set-up and Documentation is $470.00. Delivery, if required, is $485.00 flat rate in the Lower 48-states. Total delivered price: $3,950.00 for the SG250 Scrambler.)
The BENEFITS to buyers of the CSC SG250 Scrambler continue:
Poor availability. Most Honda dealers typically stock ONE CT125 - or NONE. It’s obvious that dealers prefer to sell Honda 500’s and 1800cc Goldwings with much higher profit margins. Many dealers have a waiting list for the CT125, with delivery that can take months.
CSC Motorcycles has the SG250 Scrambler IN STOCK for immediate purchase at their store in Azusa - or delivery to your door in as little as ONE WEEK!
No color choices. It’s a small thing, but not everyone wants a yellow motorcycle (or green, or red, or whatever the single “color of the year” is.) Next year, if you want to buy a matching CT125 you are out of luck.
The CSC SG250 Scrambler is available in Gray, Black, White, Green, or Blue (subject to in stock inventory - see the CSC Motorcycles website for current availability.)
Lack of accessories. The Honda website lists only 2 (TWO) accessories for the CT125. Because the CT125 (Hunter Cub) is manufactured in Thailand and sold around the world, many North American owners are forced to order accessories directly from Asian sources. Because of the unique design, there are few generic parts available for the CT125.
CSC Motorcycles not only stocks 100% of the replacement parts for the SG250 Scrambler, but also a WIDE selection of accessories, including foot pegs, hand guards, custom rear cargo rack, tire options, and much more.
Honda Dealer service departments. This is not a complaint that is exclusive to Honda owners.
MOST motorcycle owners dread taking their bike into the dealership.
First, the hourly rate is typically around $150 per hour, and few services are not charged for two or more hours, plus shop supplies, waste and disposal fees.
Second, most shops are painfully overbooked and SLOW. You might not get an appointment for several weeks, and then need to wait longer for the service to be completed.
Third, satisfaction with the completed repairs is dismal. There are legions of stories about being charged for services (valve adjustments, for example) that were never completed. Others complain about misdiagnosis of problems adding to time delays.
Fourth, there is a good chance that the "technician" assigned to your motorcycle has never worked on that model! When you combine the hundreds of motorcycle models with the high turnover of personnel, many paid service technicians don't know any more about your cycle than you do.
Then there is the high cost of parts (even basic oil and filters) on top of the expensive labor. First, there is a slim chance the required part is in stock, adding to the delays. Then, you pay "through the nose" for the Honda brand.
In the end, most motorcycles will not be returned without a bill that totals several hundred dollars – even for a basic machine like the Honda CT125.
CSC Motorcycles eliminates the Dealer hassles!
CSC only sells the SG250 Scrambler DIRECT to its customers - bypassing the sales commissions and added dealer markups. Then CSC offers BETTER support after the sale to its SG250 Owners/Customers with in stock parts, full online Owner's Manual, and an extensive library of online maintenance tutorials.
The CT125 motorcycle stirs nostalgic FEELINGS. But the high turnover confirms the dissatisfaction with the riding experience. I really can't think of another product that so many people buy and hate immediately. Only a small percentage of CT125 owners are willing to tolerate the inadequacies of this model.
CSC SG250 Scrambler vs Honda CT125. Let's Compare the Specs:
Specifications: CSC SG250 Scrambler Honda CT125 Trail
Engine Type: Single-cylinder, Four- stroke Single-cylinder, Four- stroke
Engine Cooling: Air cooled* Air cooled
Engine Starter: Electric/Kick Starter Electric/Kick Starter
Fuel delivery: Carburetor Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Displacement: 229.5cc, Overhead Cam, 125cc, Overhead Cam
Counterbalanced
Power Rating: 16.1 hp @ 7000 rpm 8.7 hp @ 7,000 rpm
Max Torque: 13.5 nm @ 5500 rpm 11 nm @ 4,500 rpm
Bore x Stroke: 72 mm x 61.4 mm 50.0mm x 63.1mm
Compression Ratio: 8.7:1 9.3:1
Transmission: 5-speed (428 drive chain) 4-speed (420 drive chain)
Standard hand clutch Semi-automatic clutch
Brake(front/rear): Single Disk/Disk Single Disk/Disk
Suspension: Inverted front fork Front telescopic fork
(non-adjustable) (non-adjustable)
Rear reservoir shocks Rear double shocks
(adjustable) (non-adjustable)
4.3” front/3.5” rear travel 4.3” front/3.4” rear travel
Wheels: Wire spoke, Aluminum Rims, Tube Wire spoke, Steel Rims, Tube
Tires(front/rear): 90/70x17; 120/70x17 Dual Sport 2.5x17; 2.5x17 street
Top Speed: 65 mph w/standard gearing** 50 mph w/standard gearing**
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gallons (locking gas cap) 1.4 gallons (under saddle)
Fuel Economy: 75 mpg** 125 mpg**
Range (@90%): 270 miles** 150**
Lights: LED headlight, taillight, LED head and taillight,
turn signals turn signals
Instrumentation: Electronic dash: speedometer, tach, Electronic dash: speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, gear, tach, odometer, trip odometer, neutral light, high/low headlight, gear indicator, nuetral light,
turn indicators/hazard, fuel gauge, turn indicators, fuel gauge,
clock. clock.
300-watt alternator,
2 accessory switches on handlebars
Accessories: Standard passenger seat and pegs
Standard side stand & center stand Standard side stand & center stand
Optional rear rack Standard rear cargo rack
Wheelbase: 50.8 in 49.5 in
Dimensions: L 80 in x W 32 in x H 39 in L 77.2 in x W 31.7 in x H 42.7 in
Ground Clearance: 7.3 in *** 6.5 in
Seat Height: 27 in 31.5 in
Net Weight: 273 lb 256 lb
Warranty: One-year, Unlimited Miles**** One-Year
Colors: Gray,Black, White, Green, Blue Yellow
*Optional: External oil-cooler.
**Depending on rider weight, elevation, etc. Optional front/rear gearing available.
***With Shinko 244 dual sport tires
****1 to 4-year extended warranties are available from Aftercare
CSC SG250 Scrambler owners tend to fall into two categories:
First, the CSC SG250 Scrambler is a favorite of new motorcycle riders.
These riders appreciate the nimble handling and performance of the 230cc engine in the lightweight chassis. New riders also enjoy the simplicity of the dash, controls, and especially the low-maintenance requirements of the SG250. It doesn't hurt that the CSC SG250 LOOKS expensive (but it's not!)
Many Motorcycle Rider Safety (MSF) operations buy the SG250 to INSTRUCT new riders!
The second (and largest) category of CSC SG250 Scrambler owners are experienced bikers who already own several motorcycles.
The Scrambler style appeals to experienced riders for its vintage and rugged heritage. The SG250 Scrambler has the fit and finish of cycles that cost OVER twice as much! Experienced riders are attracted to the SG250 because it ISN'T high-tech. Just turn the key and ride OR stomp the kick starter for another reminder of a simpler time!
The CSC SG250 Scrambler has no limits! Commute to work or school during the week. Explore the countryside on the weekends. Or load up and enjoy an extended highway and back road "MotorBikePacking" adventure for a few days or a few weeks (all at 75 miles per gallon!!!)
The budget-priced SG250 Scrambler is also the PERFECT bike to customize. It costs LESS to buy a NEW CSC SG250 that rebuild a 20-year old "barn find" - plus you have modern features and a new warranty!
Here are more views of the CSC SG250 Scrambler: (Picture YOURSELF there!)
Conclusion: The CSC SG250 Scrambler delivers MORE than DOUBLE the power and features for less than the 125cc mini-moto bikes, including the Honda CT125 and Super Cub, Grom, and Monkey.
Compare the CSC SG250 vs the Honda CT125: There is NO comparison!
The CT125 has an underpowered 125cc, 8 HP motor with 4-speed transmission, 1.4-gallon gas tank, and ONE-year warranty. It is overpriced at $5,000 (or more) "out the door" - NOT including taxes and registration.
The SG250 embodies modern design and technology, yet has a reputation for durability and low maintenance. Members of the SG250 Owner's Group - and TT250 Owner's Group, whcih shares the same engine and transmssion - report over 7,500, 10,000 and 20,000 miles of FUN and performance! In contrast, the CT125 is a dated platform that hasn’t been updated since the 1960’s.
Compared to the Honda CT124, the SG250 Scrambler is the BEST Value:
MORE power and torque
HIGHER weight capacity, rider and passenger
Wide, soft COMFORTABLE saddle
HIGHER top speed
BETTER ground clearance
LARGER gas tank and LONGER riding range
HIGHER power output for electric accessories
BETTER seating position for MORE comfort
MORE standard features: aluminum rims, accessory switches, adjustable rear shocks
See CSCMotorcycles.com for more details and current availability. Join the CSC family of SG250 Owners and Enjoy the Ride!
With shipping, you can be riding in one to two weeks! The Scrambler options - along with any other options you choose - are installed during the assembly and inspection process so that your motorcycle is ready to ride upon delivery!
Would you like a PDF document of the comparison of the CSC SG250 Scrambler vs the Honda CT125?
Click the Button below to send me an email. Be sure to ADD "SG250 Specs" and I will reply with the PDF document attachment that has all the specs listed above to help your comparison shopping!
Comments