Honda Varadero XL125V Review

Overall Rating

The size of the bike is fantastic. Compared to so many 125s which have such a small frame its amazing that the varadero is the only real sized bike in 125 range, apart from the cruisers.

It is ideal for anyone over 6ft or anyone who just wants to learn on a bike that is going to be similar as you can get to a 600cc in terms of size.

It is very good in city traffic, and very easy to filter after some intial practice.

Its presence on the road is excellant, good view of the road, and you to seem to get a lot more respect from both other bikers and cars on the varadero. ( Experienced no respect given on a scooter)

Most people do seem agree the price is a bit too much, but got to remember the bike you are getting is one of reliability, comfort, and very good on fuel consumption and looks fantastic!

I have owned a black Honda Varadero XL125V since 06/08, and have covered just over a 1000 miles. I dont use it for commuting, but mostly on my days off to enjoy. I have used it in all weathers as i believe most people who say they have used bike for dry use only are always telling a few white lies. Everyone gets caught in the rain at some point. Bikes like these are made to use in all weathers!

It handles both really well in rain and sunshine. You do feel the presence on the road is great as described earlier. Every biker gives you a nod. After first few miles, is very easy to ride, and the gear changes are easy to get used to.

As i dont commute i hardly ever seem to put fuel in it but i have heard from other varadero owners for commuting its right up there for fuel consumption and will save you money. I check my oil weekly, and the oil view window is a good idea but not always easy to see! Having had my varadero over 9 months, the coolant level is still way above the minimum level.

Everyone is interested in speed, and is something the varadero does not seem to get alot of respect for. Obviously this bike is not going to get a 100mph, but with a tail wind can just about hit 80, and im 6ft ,16 stone! Have also seen people dont seem to think its good at over taking. I feel overtaking is very possible but have to make use of 4th gear making sure dont go into red revs, and then into 5th as finishing overtaking. On open roads with good views, the varadero is excellant for overtaking. From a standing position at the lights, it also gets off well, im not any speed demond, but will easily out do most cars from starting position.

It is a weighty bike but not overly difficult to walk with or park. Have tried doing U turns and with practice isnt a great problem.

Things on the bike! The mirrors could do with being a bit bigger and having longer attachments, i have had to get mirror extenders for mine as all i could see was my elbows! The fairings are easy to wash and clean, as is the petrol tank. The underneith of the bike and hard to reach parts get dirty easily and can be hard to clean. I have just purchased an official bellypan and hope that will help in protecting the engine from rubbish and dirt on the road. Also will make the bike look even better. The exhaust is a bit too quiet but will do. The rear rack is easy to fit a top box. Have fitted one myself no problem and is very useful. The lights are very bright and light up the road well at night.

As already mentioned there are even more accessories availble for the varadero 125.

In terms of reliability, I have had no problems at all. I would highly reccommend this bike to anyone interested in a 125, it is a pleasure to own and ride. Hope some of these things in this review help someone to choose a varadero.

Members' Comments onashlosecontrol's Review

• Vara07 on 4th Aug 2009

  I agree about the mirrors! I take it yours are mounted to the fairing. If so, what type of extender did you go for?

• Vara07 on 4th Aug 2009

  What sort of extenders did you get for the mirrors?

• ashlosecontrol on 5th Aug 2009

  Got the extenders from ebay, standard Honda Mirror extenders,same thread, but be warned, the actual mirrors seem to be impossible to undo from attachment, i still havent been able to fit extenders as i dont want to damage original attachment on mirrors. I will try it again sometime with a longer allen key to see if that can make them loose. Hope you have better luck mate.