Honda XL 125 V Varadero (2007-2012): A Timeless Entry-Level Adventure Companion
Introduction
The Honda XL 125 V Varadero, produced from 2007 to 2012, stands as one of the most intriguing 125cc motorcycles ever crafted. Designed to mimic the styling and spirit of its larger adventure-touring siblings, this mini-Varadero punches above its weight class with a unique V-twin engine and surprising long-distance capabilities. While marketed as a sport-touring machine, it’s become a cult favorite among new riders, commuters, and even seasoned motorcyclists looking for a lightweight, fuel-efficient companion. Let’s dive into what makes this generation of the Varadero 125 so special.
Design & First Impressions
At first glance, the Varadero 125 defies expectations. With its tall stance, beak-like front fender, and aggressively styled bodywork, it looks like a shrunken-down Africa Twin. The 800 mm (31.5-inch) seat height might intimidate shorter riders, but the narrow V-twin engine layout and well-contoured seat make it manageable. Honda offered color schemes that emphasized its adventurous spirit: black/grey, black/red, and later silver/white/red combinations gave it a premium aesthetic uncommon in the 125cc segment.
The chassis balances robustness and accessibility. Its 170 kg (375 lbs) wet weight (later models) feels centralized, giving it a planted stance. The 190 mm (7.5-inch) ground clearance and long-travel suspension hint at light off-road capability, though this is primarily a road-focused machine. Fit-and-finish is typical Honda—no rattles, even on older examples, and the hollow-section triple-spoke wheels add a touch of sportiness.
Engine & Performance
The V-Twin Heartbeat
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 125cc liquid-cooled 90° V-twin engine—a rarity in the small-displacement category. With a bore and stroke of 42.0 x 45.0 mm (1.7 x 1.8 inches), this SOHC 4-valve mill produces 14.2 HP (10.4 kW) at 11,000 RPM and 10 Nm (7.4 lb-ft) of torque at 8,500 RPM. While these numbers seem modest, the V-twin’s broad power delivery sets it apart from single-cylinder rivals.
On the road: The engine thrives between 6,000–10,000 RPM. Below 50 km/h (31 mph), it’s docile and beginner-friendly. Crack the throttle open, and the PGM-FI fuel injection (introduced in later models) delivers smooth acceleration up to its top speed of ~110 km/h (68 mph). The 5-speed gearbox is slick, though the tall gearing (14/44 sprockets) prioritizes highway comfort over quick launches.
Highway manners: Unlike high-strung 125cc singles, the Varadero remains composed at 90 km/h (56 mph). The V-twin’s dual counterbalancers minimize vibrations, making 1-hour rides fatigue-free. Fuel efficiency hovers around 35–40 km/l (82–94 mpg), thanks to the 17.5-liter (4.6-gallon) tank—a range of over 600 km (373 miles) between fill-ups!
Handling & Comfort
Small Bike, Big Presence
The Varadero’s 1450 mm (57.1-inch) wheelbase and 28° rake angle strike a fine balance between stability and agility. The 35mm telescopic fork (132mm travel) and preload-adjustable monoshock (150mm travel) handle potholes with dignity, though aggressive cornering exposes their budget origins.
Urban riding: Despite its size, the bike filters through traffic easily. The upright riding position offers excellent visibility, and the 2.0 bar (29 psi) tire pressures (2.25 bar/33 psi rear when loaded) provide predictable grip on its 100/90-18 front and 130/80-17 rear tires.
Long-distance comfort: The seat is firm but well-shaped, and the handlebar-to-peg relationship suits riders up to 180 cm (5’11”). Wind protection is minimal, but aftermarket screens are popular upgrades. The 17.5-liter tank’s narrow profile keeps knees comfortable, a thoughtful touch for a 125cc machine.
Competition
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
In the 125cc category, the Varadero 125 faced three main competitors:
-
Yamaha XT125X:
A single-cylinder supermoto with similar power but taller seat height (860 mm/33.9”). Better off-road but less refined on highways. Lacks the Varadero’s touring cachet. -
Suzuki VanVan 125:
Retro-styled fun bike with fat tires. Lower seat (770 mm/30.3”) and torquey engine appeal to city riders, but its 7.4-liter (1.95-gallon) tank limits range. -
Aprilia RX 125:
A 2-stroke sportbike with 33 HP—way faster but impractical for daily use. Higher maintenance and Euro emissions regulations killed its appeal.
Varadero’s edge? Its V-twin engine and touring DNA. While slower than the Aprilia and less agile than the Yamaha, it’s the only 125cc that truly feels like a big bike. Resale values reflect this uniqueness.
Maintenance
Keeping Your Mini-Adventurer Healthy
The Varadero 125 is reliable but demands attentive care. Key considerations:
- Valve adjustments: Every 4,000 km (2,485 miles). Intake valves: 0.15 ± 0.02 mm (0.006”), exhaust: 0.24 ± 0.02 mm (0.009”). Use quality feeler gauges.
- Oil changes: 1.3L (1.37 quarts) with filter. Stick to 10W-30 (API SE or better). The sight glass makes level checks easy.
- Cooling system: 1.46L (1.54 quarts) of ethylene glycol coolant. Inspect hoses regularly—V-twin layout creates complex routing.
- Chain maintenance: 110-link O-ring chain. Keep tension at 25–35 mm (1–1.4”) and lubricate every 500 km (310 miles).
- Brakes: DOT 4 fluid changes every 2 years. Single 220mm discs front/rear lack bite—consider sintered pads for heavier riders.
Pro tip: The NGK CR8EH-9 spark plugs (or iridium CR8EHIX-9) foul easily if the bike is ridden only at low RPMs. A monthly highway blast keeps them clean!
Conclusion
The Honda XL 125 V Varadero isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a masterclass in balancing practicality and aspiration. Its V-twin engine, touring ergonomics, and Honda reliability make it a standout in the 125cc class. While newer bikes have eclipsed its performance, none replicate its charm. For riders seeking a gateway to adventure touring or a stylish commuter that won’t strain the wallet at the pump, the Varadero 125 remains a compelling choice.
At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re committed to keeping your Varadero 125 running like new. From OEM-spec NGK spark plugs to upgraded brake pads and ergonomic seats, explore our catalog to enhance your mini-adventurer’s capabilities!
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 11 kW | 15.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 10 Nm |
| Fuel system: | PGM-FI electronic fuel injection |
| Max power @: | 11000 rpm |
| Displacement: | 125 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 8500 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 42.0 x 45.0 mm (1.7 x 1.8 in) |
| Configuration: | V |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 11.8:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 2 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1450 mm (57.1 in) |
| Dry weight: | 153 |
| Seat height: | 800 mm (31.5 in) |
| Overall width: | 833 mm (32.8 in) |
| Overall height: | 1250 mm (49.2 in) |
| Overall length: | 2150 mm (84.6 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 190 mm (7.5 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 17.5 L (4.6 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Clutch: | Wet, multiple discs, cable-operated |
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 110 |
| Transmission: | 5-speed |
| Rear sprocket: | 44 |
| Front sprocket: | 14 |
| Maintainance | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 130/80-m17 |
| Engine oil: | 10W30 |
| Front tire: | 100/90-m18 |
| Idle speed: | 1500 ± 100 rpm |
| Break fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR8EH-9 or NGK CR8EHIX-9 |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.9 |
| Coolant capacity: | 1.46 |
| Forks oil capacity: | 0.692 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 1.5 |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.13–0.17 mm |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.22–0.26 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.0 bar (29 psi) solo, 2.25 bar (33 psi) with passenger |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.0 bar (29 psi) |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 130/80-m17 (65s) |
| Front tire: | 100/90-m18 (56s) |
| Rear brakes: | Single disc, 1-piston caliper |
| Front brakes: | Single disc, dual-piston caliper |
| Rear suspension: | Monoshock swingarm, adjustable preload, 150mm travel |
| Front suspension: | 35mm telescopic fork, 132mm travel |
