Honda CR125M
The Honda CR125M Elsinore is a motorcycle designed and manufactured by Honda and released in late 1973. Modeled after the first Elsinore, the Honda CR250M, the 124cc version sold for $749 at its debut. A CR125M ridden by Marty Smith won the 1974 AMA National Motocross championship,[1] spurring the Elsinore's popularity. The September 1973 issue of Dirt Bike argued that the 125 Honda Elsinore was the only off-road bike on the market at the time that offered both speed and reliability.[2] Other Japanese 125cc motocross bikes available at the time would have needed major suspension, motor, and chassis upgrades to be used for motocross racing.
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The CR125M was built in Japan and was extensively tested on motocross tracks in Japan and California.[3] It had a chrome-moly tube frame, a six-speed gearbox, four-point adjustable Showa shocks, plastic fenders and a magnesium alloy engine casing for weight economy. The bike weighed 154 pounds dry.[4] With a full tank, the CR125M weighed 188 pounds.[5] The CR125M’s single-cylinder, two-stroke 124cc engine weighed 46 pounds, inclusive of the 28mm Keihin carburetor.
Specifications
- Engine type: 125cc air cooled single-cylinder two-stroke producing 22 hp (claimed)
- Weight (dry): 154 lbs
- Carburetion: 28mm Keihin
- Transmission: close ratio six speed
- Bore and Stroke: 56 x 50mm[6]
- Brakes: front and rear drum brake
References
- Frank, Aaron. Honda Motorcycles, p. 95 and 97. Motorbooks International. ISBN 0-7-603-1077-7.
- Siegal, Margie. "King of the Hill: Honda Elsinore CR125". Motorcycle Classics November/December 2012. Motorcycle Classics. Retrieved 27 November 2012.
- Walker, Mick. Honda Production Motorcycles 1946-1980, p. 196. The Crowood Press. ISBN 1 86126 820 3.
- Siegal, Margie. "King of the Hill: 1974 Honda CR125M Elsinore".
- Aaron, Frank. Honda Motorcycles.
- Siegal, Margie. "King of the Hill: 1974 Honda CR125M Elsinore".